Septic tanks may possibly be shared by homeowners who want to reduce their environmental impact. However, before embarking on this endeavor, it’s important to consider the risks, benefits, and legal considerations.
So, can 2 houses share a septic tank? Yes, but it requires careful planning and coordination. Two households can use one septic tank to manage wastewater and solid waste efficiently and cost-effectively. But a number of factors need to be considered, including the capacity of the tank, daily water usage, waste production, etc.
In today’s article, we’ll explore the benefits, risks, and legal considerations of using the same septic tank. We’ll also provide tips on how to share the tank effectively. Keep reading to know about sharing the tank with your neighbor or if you’re simply curious about it.
Are Two Houses Able To Share One Septic Tank?
Yes, it is possible for two houses to do so, but it depends on several factors.
- The primary factor is the capacity of the tank, which should be large enough to accommodate the waste generated by both houses.
- Other factors to consider the site’s soil type
- Drainage capabilities
- Local regulations and codes
Sharing the tank can be an attractive option for people who want to save money on installation and maintenance costs. However, it may not always be feasible or legal, and there can be potential risks and downsides to consider.
Moreover, it may also require additional maintenance and upkeep to ensure it functions properly and does not become overloaded.
Factors to Consider When Using The Same Septic Tank
Here are the factors to consider when sharing the tank:
Size
The capacity of the tank should be adequate enough to accommodate the combined wastewater generated by two households. The tank’s size depends on
- The members of each household
- The water usage
- The waste production
A septic system professional can assess the appropriate capacity of the tank based on these factors.
Bedrooms Per House
This is an essential factor to consider when using the same tank. The increasing quantity of bedrooms indicates an increasing number of people living in the house. This means more water usage and waste production.
If one house has more bedrooms than the other, it may require a more substantial share of the tank’s capacity.
Daily Water Usage And Waste Production
The amount of water used and the waste generated by each household on a daily basis should be taken into account. Daily water usage includes
- Bathing
- Washing
- Flushing
- Other activities that involve the use of water
Higher water usage can result in more frequent pumping.
Soil Type And Drainage Capacity
The soil should be able to absorb and filter the wastewater effectively. A soil test can determine the type of soil and its drainage capacity. A professional can recommend appropriate measures to ensure the tank operates efficiently.
Maintenance Requirements And Costs
The sharing procedure includes sharing the maintenance costs and responsibilities. Regular pumping and inspection are necessary to ensure the tank functions correctly. So, the maintenance costs and responsibilities should be clearly defined and agreed upon by both households in a written agreement.
Benefits of Using The Same Septic Tank
Let’s look at the benefits of using the same tank for two households.
Lower Installation And Maintenance Costs
One septic tank for two households can reduce the installation and maintenance costs. Instead of installing and maintaining two separate septic tanks, the cost can be split between two households.
Additionally, maintenance costs such as pumping, inspections, and repairs can be shared. This will result in lower overall costs for each household.
Reduced Environmental Impact
The sharing can reduce the environmental impact of wastewater treatment. And the tank’s effluent is typically discharged into a drain field, where it is absorbed and filtered by the soil.
Having a single septic tank can reduce the number of drain fields required. This can help reduce the environmental impact of wastewater treatment.
Sharing Resources And Reducing Waste
The sharing procedure can encourage resource sharing and waste reduction between households. For example, households can coordinate their water usage to reduce the amount of wastewater produced.
Additionally, sharing the tank can encourage households to adopt environmentally friendly practices such as
- Water conservation
- Reducing the amount of waste produced
- Using biodegradable products
Risks of Sharing The Tank
Now pay attention to the risks associated with sharing.
Potential Overload
A shared septic tank increases the amount of solid waste and wastewater that must be processed. If the tank is not adequately sized, the increased volume of waste can overload the system and cause it to fail.
This can lead to
- Costly repairs
- System backups
- Potential health hazards
Increased Risk Of System Failure
System failure can occur due to various reasons, such as
- Improper installation
- Lack of maintenance
- Overloading the system
System failure can cause
- Sewage backups
- Unpleasant odors
- Potential health hazards.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Let’s discuss the legal and regulatory considerations related to using the same septic tank for two households:
Permits And Regulations Related To Septic Systems
A shared septic tank requires compliance with permits and regulations related to septic systems. The local health department or environmental agency typically regulates septic systems.
Depending on the location, permits may be required for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the tank.
Zoning Laws And Local Ordinances
Zoning laws and local ordinances may have specific requirements related to septic systems. For example, some areas may require a certain distance between the tank and nearby wells or bodies of water.
Before sharing the tank, it is essential to research and comply with all relevant zoning laws and local ordinances.
Legal Agreements And Contracts Between Homeowners
The sharing procedure requires a clear and legally binding agreement between homeowners outlining responsibilities and maintenance requirements. The agreement should include a plan for
- Sharing costs
- A schedule for maintenance and inspection
- Procedures for addressing system failure or backup
Having a written agreement can help prevent disagreements and disputes between homeowners.
How To Share 1 Septic Tank Between 2 Houses?
A shared septic tank between two houses is possible, but it requires careful planning and coordination to ensure the system functions properly. Here are the steps you can take:
Step 1: Hire A Licensed Septic Tank Installer
The first step is to hire a licensed septic tank installer. They will
- Assess your property
- Determine the best location for the tank
- Make sure the system meets local codes and regulations
Step 2: Determine The Size
The installer can help you determine the appropriate size.
Step 3: Install A Separate Inlet Pipe For Each House
Each house should have its own inlet pipe to prevent sewage from backing up into the other house. The inlet pipes should be at different levels to ensure the even distribution of the wastewater.
Step 4: Install A Baffle
A baffle should be installed inside the tank to separate the incoming wastewater. Moreover, it will prevent solids from leaving the tank and entering the drain field.
Step 5: Regular Maintenance
Both households need to schedule regular maintenance of the tank. This includes
- Pumping the tank every 3-5 years
- Checking for leaks
- Ensuring the inlet and outlet pipes are clear
Conclusion
In conclusion, having one septic tank for two houses can be a practical solution for homeowners. However, it requires careful planning, coordination, and legal considerations to ensure that the system operates efficiently and safely. Homeowners should consult a septic system professional and legal counsel to ensure that all regulatory requirements are met.
Moreover, they should develop a maintenance and inspection schedule to prevent overloading the system. By following these guidelines and educating household members on proper use, homeowners can successfully share the tank. They can also contribute to a sustainable future.