Depending on when your home was built, and its location, your sewage system may be built in a few different ways. Many homes have a septic tank, whereas others rely on a sump pump for their sewage. This article will help you understand the different types of sewage system and the problems with each.
Septic Tanks: A Stand-Alone Sewage Management System
The biggest difference between a septic tank and a sump pump is that septic tanks can deal with both solid and liquid waste. Whereas even the best sump pump for septic tank may not deal with solid waste at all unless it is shared with a septic tank that can handle solid waste.
Note that a septic tank is not connected to the sewage system that is in place by the government. This means it is a closed tank system, and it is usually found in areas that are more rural where connecting to the city’s sewage system isn’t so easy. Septic tanks must be emptied regularly to a drain field, and maintained. It requires a lot of work to keep it maintained, but can last a long time if you take care of it properly. Many septic tank owners use enzymes to break down the waste that collects in the tank. This also helps protect the tank from corrosion and ensures that it does not get clogged.Â
Sump Pump Types
Generally speaking, there are two kinds of sump pumps in use today (pedestal and submersible). The pedestal sump pump is more economical because the system sits on the basement floor and moves water along using a pump motor. Keep in mind that pedestal sump pumps are noisier than their submersible counterparts, and require ample space to avoid overheating.
The other type of sump pump is more commonly used, where it sits under the water line and helps drive water away from your home. These are the more common option. Although it is a means for liquid waste, most homes with this type of sump pump also have a grinder that turns solid waste into liquid so that it can be dealt with efficiently.
Tips On Choosing A Sump Pump
There are several things you should take into consideration before you invest in a sump pump:
Material: Cast Iron Vs. Plastic
Although you may think that plastic is the modern material and therefore better, that is far from the truth. Plastic sump pumps will warp under the heat of the pump, and may even crack over time. This makes them a less durable option. The best choice is a fully cast iron model, because it will stay cool and withstand the pressure of a rainy season. Models that combine materials are also less durable.
Float Switch
Try to invest in a solid vertical float switch to ensure that the pump works at a low voltage and stays working reliably. There is no point installing a sump pump if it will malfunction electronically when you most need it.