Turning Your Holding Tank into a Septic Tank: Is It Possible?

Introduction:

If you’ve got a holding tank for your home’s waste and are tired of having it pumped out all the time, you might be thinking, “Can I make this a septic tank instead?” A septic tank could mean less hassle and could be cheaper to maintain. Let’s see what’s involved in making the switch.

Easy Guide to the Switch:

What’s the difference?
- Holding Tanks: These tanks hold all your waste until someone comes to pump it out.
- Septic Tanks: These tanks do a bit more work. They let the liquid waste flow out into a special area of your yard called a drain field, where the ground cleans it naturally.
Can You Make the Switch?
- Check the Soil: A pro needs to see if the soil around your tank is the right type for a septic system.
- Enough Room?: You need enough space for the drain field.
Rules and Permits:
- Get Permission: You’ll need a “yes” from your local health department to make sure you’re not breaking any rules.
- Be Earth-Friendly: The switch should be safe for the environment, so you don’t pollute any water nearby.
How to Do It:
- Hire a Pro: Get a septic system expert to plan it out.
- Building It: If you get the green light, they’ll build the septic tank and drain field.
- Official Checks: Once it’s done, it needs to pass an inspection.
What Will It Cost?
- Upfront Money: Changing to a septic system can cost a fair bit to start.
- Saving Later: But, in the long run, it might be cheaper than getting the holding tank pumped all the time.
What Could Go Wrong?
- Not All Can Change: Sometimes, your tank or yard might not be fit for a septic system.
- Big Investment: The work to change it over can be a lot, both in effort and money.

In Summary:

You can change a holding tank into a septic tank if your yard is the right fit and the local officials say it’s okay. It’s a big job that could save you money over time, but make sure you’ve got the budget and the right conditions before you start.