Septic tanks and pump vaults are not as simple as they may seem. Tanks come in varied materials and configurations. A range of accessories enable installers to adapt systems to suit site-specific needs. Here is a look at some of the latest tanks, vaults and related items.
Flow controller
The Flow Controller alternates or divides flows between two separate fields. Its channel-split design distributes the waste stream equally, or directs all the flow to the right or left. The unit attaches directly to Schedule 40 or SDR 35 pipe for easy installation. Polylok: 888/765-9565; www.polylok.com.
Extreme applications
The NuConSept Plus polyethylene septic tank can be buried in high-water-table or heavy-clay areas without using water for ballast or reinforcement. It can be backfilled with free-flowing native soils. The 51-inch, high-profile tanks are suited for extreme applications and bedrock sites.
The tanks are designed so that high stress does not compromise the manhole, keeping it round and level. Coupled with seamless, rotationally molded construction and a double-wall lid, the tanks ensure watertight installations, and have earned a category 3 rating in Florida with no additional measures taken to secure the lid. The tanks, made of UV- stabilized material, come in capacities from 750 to 1,500 gallons. Pump tank and water cistern versions are available. Snyder Industries Inc.: 870/358-5119; www.snydernet.com.
Biotube pump vault
The Biotube Pump Vault filters and transports effluent from septic and dosing tanks. The molded polyethylene unit can hold one or two high-head effluent pumps and the filter cartridge, comprising 15 square feet of surface area and 4.5 square feet of flow area. The filter rarely needs cleaning. Standard and custom heights from 48 to 95 inches are available. Vaults can be used in single- compartment septic tanks with flows of 40 gpm. Double-compartment septic tanks or separate dosing tanks are recommended for higher flows. Orenco Systems Inc.: 800/348-9843; www.orenco.com.
Low-maintenance transfer
BioSTEP pump vaults transfer screened liquids in small-diameter, decentralized collection applications. Each pre-packaged unit contains the SaniTEE, which screens and deflects solids rather than collecting and holding them. During maintenance, an external swab cleans the pump vault exterior and flushes out its angled slots without removing any components. The ScumGuard shield protects the vault from FOG-laden scum and provides flexible, uniform installation for most tank, manhole, and riser configurations. Bio-Microbics Inc.: 800/753-3278; www.biomicrobics.com.
Money-saving lid
Made of high density, UV-blocking polymers, the rotomolded Septic Lid is lightweight, easy to transport, durable, and slides in to install. Available in green or black, it fits standard 18- or 24-inch I.D. corrugated pipe, functioning like a riser that can be filled with sand. The hardware kit includes stainless-steel components. RotoSolutions Inc.: 800/868-0973; www.rotosolutions.com.
Filtered pump vault
The Zabel Hanging Pump Vault suspends through a 16-inch access and rests on top of primary or pump tanks. Its filter protects the pump and disposal field from solids larger than 1/16 inch. The hanging feature allows the 36- to 68-inch-high units to be easily retrofitted to existing tanks or installed on new systems. Various attachment methods adapt it to single-family homes or commercial applications. Quanics: 877/782-6427; www.quanics.net.
Long- or short-term sealing
The CS-367 Fume Guard septic tank seal is an all temperature, pliable butyl sealant that allows easy access to service entries while providing an odor barrier between the manhole or cleanout and cover. The flexible, airtight seal will not harden or shrink, installs in less than a minute, and is reusable. It is non-oxidizing and adheres well to most clean, dry surfaces. Concrete Sealants Inc.: 800/332-7325; www.conseal.com.
Traffic-rated tanks
The Wieser line of extra-heavy-duty tanks withstand AASHTO HS-20 loading (semi-truck traffic) or 12 feet of soil cover with no additional distribution slab or special backfill. Available in 1,000- to 10,000-gallon capacities, the tanks are manufactured in a NPCA-certified plant in a quality-controlled environment. Wieser Concrete: 800/325-8456; www.wieserconcrete.com.
Underground storage
Xerxes fiberglass wet wells are used for lift stations and pump vaults. Constructed with ribs for structural strength and antiflotation flanges, the one-piece tanks are durable, rustproof, and watertight. They come in diameters from 42 inches to 12 feet, and lengths from 8 to 36 feet. Options include open top, friction-fit, and watertight covers, multiple accessories, and various piping. The tanks are lightweight, easy to install, and require no maintenance. Xerxes Corp.: 952/887-1890; www.xerxescorp.com.
Last line of defense
The STF-100A2 pressure filter reduces TSS, handles flows of 83.8 gpm, and operates effectively, even if 95 percent plugged, keeping distribution systems functioning efficiently. The low-head-loss (0.21 psi) filter mounts on the discharge side of effluent pumps, preventing upstream failures from reaching the distribution field. The vortex action created by the pump scrubs the filter screen, reducing maintenance. The standard screen filters 1/16-inch particles, and optional socks filter 600, 190, and 100 microns. Filters can be manifolded together to handle higher flows. Units come ready to accept a pressure switch for monitoring high-volume or high-solids systems. SIM/TECH Filter Inc.: 888/999-3290; www.gag-simtech.com.
Risers in four sizes
NSF-certified Tuf-Tite Risers are available in 12x12, 16x12, 20x12 and 24x12 models. They can screw together and fit all company components, including safety pans, tank adaptor rings, and safety and regular lids. Tuf-Tite Inc.: 800/382-7009; www.tuf-tite.com.
Tackles septic odors
The Sweet Air vent filter stops septic odors from flowing through house vents each time sinks, showers, dishwashers, or bathtubs are drained or toilets flushed. The 3- and 4-inch devices contain activated carbon, stand 11.5 and 15.5 inches tall, and include a rain cover. The filters attach to existing 1.5- or 2-inch vents with standard plumbing reducers. Other options include 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-, and 12-inch 90-degree filtering devices. Sweet Septic Systems Inc.: 800/622-8768; www.sweetair.com.
Quick pump and float removal
The EZ-Pull Quick Disconnect enables pumps and floats to be removed or installed in seconds. The two-piece tapered male and female connector locks into place and comes in 1.5- and 2-inch FPT sizes. Made of injection molded, glass-filled thermoplastic, units include an O-ring for a watertight seal, even under high-head conditions. Webtrol: 800/769-7867; www.webtrol.com.
IAPMO Septic Tank
IAPMO has approved Containment Solutions underground fiberglass tanks for septic system applications. CSI now can manufacture septic tanks for residential and commercial applications under the IAPMO/ANSI Z1000 mark. Approved tank sizes range from 1,000 to 40,000 gallons. The acceptance letter and additional information can be found at the company web site. Containment Solutions: 877-274-8265; www.containmentsolutions.com.
Vent concealment
The Dirty Bird birdbath acts as a concealment device and odor-controlling filter for septic system vents. Equipped with a serviceable charcoal filter, the unit can be used as a simple pedestal or with optional threaded flower pot. BS Design Corp.: 866/968-9668; www. bsdesigncorp.com.
Manual outlines installation standards
The Precast Concrete On-Site Wastewater Tanks best practices manual guides manufacturers and installers through each installation step to attain a watertight septic tank. Material selections include manufacturing techniques, testing, and installation. National Precast Concrete Association: 800/366-7731; www.precast.org.
Seamless tanks
Rotationally molded seamless plastic septic tanks reduce the risk of leaks and lower shipping costs. Models include single-compartment 500-gallon tanks and single- or double-compartment tanks in 1,000- and 1,500-gallon capacities. Manhole extensions and lid/riser combinations are available to accommodate the different grades of landscapes. Pre-plumbed units are also available. The polyethylene material is highly chemical resistant, and strengthening ribs are manufactured in for structural stability. Coon Mfg. Inc.: 800/843-1532; www.coonmfginc.com.
Seamless construction
Lightweight, blow-molded septic tanks are made of high-strength resin using a multi-layer co-extrusion process for watertight, corrosion-resistant, seamless construction. Designed to perform under tough conditions, the tanks are CSA, IAPMO and UPC third-party certified, and are suitable for septic or pump tank applications. FRALO Plastech LLC: 866/943-7256; www.fralo.net.
Tanks to match ATUs
Premium septic tanks are offered in conjunction with Aqua Safe and Aqua Aire aerobic treatment units from Ecological Tanks Inc. Sizes range from 50 gallons for small pumping application to 3,000 gallons for large pre-treatment tanks or septic tanks. The tanks come completely assembled with 4-inch inlets and outlets and lifting lugs. 20-inch polyethylene risers are mounted directly on top of the tank lid for easy access to baffles and pumping. Ecological Tanks Inc.: 800/277-8179; www. etiaquasafe.com.
1,500-gallon tank
A rotationally molded 1,500-gallon septic tank accommodates homes up to four bedrooms. Design enhancements increase treatment efficiency, assist in installation, and extend service life. A polyethylene baffle between compartments makes the tank sturdier and can be produced at economical cost. At a heavier weight, high density polyethylene provides a longer service life in the presence of frequent pumping and resists impact and corrosion. The ribbed design supports loads of 500 pounds per square foot. The tank’s low profile makes installation easier, reducing the depth of the excavation. Rotonics Manufacturing Inc.: 310/327-5401; www.rotonics.com.
