The Difference Between Septic Tanks & Sewage Treatment Plants

Septic tanks and sewage treatment plants often are used interchangeably, considering they both are used to process wastewater. However, besides this similarity, there are multiple differences between the two machines.

In this article, we have covered the differences between the two machines and have determined which system works better and is more efficient for industrial use.

Before we delve into the differences, let’s first understand what septic tanks are and how do sewage treatment plants work.

What is a septic tank?

Generally, septic plants are usually buried underground and are split into multiple chambers. To process wastewater, it enters from one end of the septic tank, wherein it is separated into solids, also known as sludge, and oils, also known as scum. The separated wastewater, now known as the effluent, leaves the tank through an outlet and goes into a drainage field. 

Once the water reaches the drainage field, the effluent is percolated through the fields, wherein the bacteria is removed. After this process is completed, the water is dispersed, and it rejoins other watercourses.

How Do Sewage Treatment Plants Work?

Even though sewage treatment plants conduct the same functions as septic tanks, the process used is drastically different. Instead of just separating the solids and the oils from the wastewater, these plants use a pump to aerate the chamber. Due to this process, the growth of good bacteria is encouraged, which helps to breakdown and eliminate harmful bacteria present in the wastewater. After the process is completed, the water is directly released into watercourses, like streams or lakes.

Key Differences Between Septic Tanks & Sewage Treatment Plants

When it comes to processes, the main difference between the two machines is that the wastewater is purified before it is released in sewage treatment plants. Hence there is no need for further filtering, and the water can join other sources of water directly. However, in septic tanks, an additional step of filtering is required after the wastewater has been released, before it can join other water bodies.

Besides the process, there are other differences, as mentioned below:

• Sewage treatment plants require energy to functions; however, septic tanks can run power-free
• Septic tanks don’t require servicing; however, sewage treatment plants require proper cleaning, servicing and maintenance at regular intervals
• Septic tanks need to be emptied more times than sewage treatment plants

That being said, while sewage treatment plants require more effort to function and maintain, the water purity and the entire process is safer and more hygienic compared to septic tanks. Hence, if you want to protect the environment, a sewage treatment plant is a must-have! There are multiple manufacturers like Thermax, who can provide high-quality machinery to help you process wastewater.