A septic tank, installed, along with a soakaway will cost you between $2000 and $3000 BZD, or $1,000 and $1,500 USD.
- You may need two or more septic tanks for a large house. Cisterns for your drinking water cost roughly US $.50 cents to $1. a gallon to construct. But it is cheaper and faster to simply buy poly or steel water tanks and drop them on a concrete pad. Crumbling colonial era home in southern Belize, candidate for a fixer upper.
Why is a septic system so expensive?
Mound septic systems are considerably more expensive than conventional septics because they require more sophisticated construction. The cost of the electric pump and sand also contributes to the total price. Mound septic systems have an average cost between $10,000 and $20,000.
What is the cheapest septic system?
Conventional septic system These conventional septic systems are usually the most affordable, with an average cost of around $3,000.
What is the alternative to a septic tank?
Mound systems work well as alternatives to septic tanks when the soil around your home or building is too dense or too shallow or when the water table is too high. Although they are more expensive and require more maintenance than conventional systems, mound systems are a common alternative.
How long do septic tanks last?
A septic system’s lifespan should be anywhere from 15 to 40 years. How long the system lasts depends on a number of factors, including construction material, soil acidity, water table, maintenance practices, and several others.
How big of a septic tank do I need?
The larger your home, the larger the septic tank you’re going to need. For instance, a house smaller than 1,500 square feet usually requires a 750 to 1,000-gallon tank. On the other hand, a bigger home of approximately 2,500 square feet will need a bigger tank, more than the 1,000-gallon range.
What are the 3 types of septic systems?
Types of Septic Systems
- Septic Tank.
- Conventional System.
- Chamber System.
- Drip Distribution System.
- Aerobic Treatment Unit.
- Mound Systems.
- Recirculating Sand Filter System.
- Evapotranspiration System.
How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?
How much does it cost to pump out a septic tank? The average cost is $300, but can run up to $500, depending on your location. The tank should be pumped out every three to five years.
Is a cesspit the same as a septic tank?
A cesspit is a sealed underground tank that simply collects wastewater and sewage. In contrast, septic tanks use a simple treatment process which allows the treated wastewater to drain away to a soakaway or stream.
How do I perk my land?
Perform the actual test – Fill the hole with water to a level 12 inches above the gravel; then time how long it takes for the water to fall to a level 6 inches above the gravel. Some authorities require you to perform this test three times on each hole, and even if yours doesn’t, it’s a good idea to do it anyway.
What is an unconventional septic system?
An alternative septic system is a system that is different from the common traditional style septic system. An alternative system is required when the site and soil conditions on a property are limiting, or when the wastewater strength is too strong for the receiving environment (i.e. restaurants).
Septic Tanks
| Septic Tanks47334809/25/1309:10 AM09/25/1309:10 AM | |
| Joined:Sep 2012Posts: 8Sanpedrano28OP. | |
| Sanpedrano28OP | Could anyone please provide me with a name of someone in town that does pumping out of septic tanks?Also.his/their contact information.It would be really appreciated.Thanks so much |
| Re: Septic Tanks47337109/25/1304:20 PM09/25/1304:20 PM | |
| Joined:Mar 2003Posts: 2,160San PedroPhil. | |
| Phil | You’re in for a shock at the cost. Find out why it needs pumping as if designed and working properly they shouldn’t.The biggest mistake is people putting grey water into the septic when it isn’t big enough and wasn’t designed for it. Also if lots of soapy water ie washing machine dishwasher lots of showers baths etc can stop the soakaway working as it clogs/seals the floor with a soapy water resistant cake and it then just back fills all the other chambers. |
| Re: Septic Tanks47337209/25/1304:36 PM09/25/1304:36 PM | |
| Joined:Apr 2000Posts: 8,868SP Daily. | |
| SP Daily | Dumping yeast into a problem septic can sometimes get it going. use a whole “bulk type” yeast package. Also, the use of harsh acids and too much bleach can stop up septic systems. |
| Re: Septic Tanks47337509/25/1305:20 PM09/25/1305:20 PM | |
| Joined:Jan 2003Posts: 7,479SimonB. | |
| SimonB | Castillo’s sells Rid-Ex which I’ve used with good results. |
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And so the Belize dream continues, utilities
I woke up with great anticipation since I knew that today would be the day that the workers would begin installing the septic system on our beach property here in Maya Beach, Belize, Central America. I was right. The next morning, after drinking much too much Belize coffee, I stepped into “The Bull” and drove over to the parking lot, which was about 5 minutes away from my rented cabana. It went without saying that I needed to park my new baby in the shade. As a past owner of a property with a septic system in the United States, and knowing far more about them than anybody should, I anticipated to see a large hole being dug and a truck with a large cement tank waiting to be hoisted into the hole underneath it.
- Damn!
- He’s a kind man.
- So he digs for the rest of the day, and I’m not joking when I say he continues to dig.
- He was still digging when I left.
- That’s not all, either!
- In all seriousness, I have no idea what this object is, but it has a flat top made of rebar that is resting next to it, which I assume is part of it.
- Putting together my septic tank and field!
In any case, when I arrived this morning, there were approximately 10 guys standing around the hole and steel prison, pounding cement into the earth and shoving it into the cage that had formed around the bottom.
As for me, I’ll get whooped by a group of neglected spider monkeys if I don’t think it is just fantastic.
I snapped this shot of our parking lot this morning while swimming in crystal clear warm water during my swim time.
I was fortunate in that the Realtor who assisted me in finding and purchasing my beach lot was quite knowledgeable about the region.
You had to either have it supplied or rely on rainwater collecting to stay hydrated.
In order to find her, I went to the resort’s main desk and asked for the “water girl”;).
I simply wanted to point out that having access to water is really crucial in Belize, just as carrying insect spray is!
So after that, I already had what they call a “pedestal” built by my then “General Contractor,” Kevin Brodsky, to run my electric to my two residences, as well as to my other two properties.
The operation will require a little more sophistication since they will need to bring in an electric pole and install it at my front corner, after which they will run the power line from across the street to connect to it.
When I landed in Belize this time, I was fortunate in that I had packed a new phone to use only in Belize, complete with Belize phone and internet service.
While I’m there, I see a banner advertising “Price Slashed” internet service costs.
In case I walked in something, I check my sandals to make sure I didn’t tread in anything because he claims it won’t be for another 2 weeks!
The best installation professional will arrive as soon as my Cabana has been delivered and set up with all of these wonderful features and amenities.
So now you know the “rest of the tale” about obtaining utilities for your new Belizean house, or at least the “rest of the story” about obtaining utilities for your new home on the Placencia Peninsula.
I’m not kidding when I say that I looked at a couple of islands for sale off the shore, but Marsha would have none of it, which was fortunate for me.
It should be a fascinating experience. I will also provide you with updates on new pubs and eateries that I come across along the route because, let’s be honest, that’s what a buddy is for, right? Cheers and don’t be concerned, Gary
SEPTIC TANKS in Belize
Businesses listed on FindYello.com may have been impacted by COVID19, and their business hours may have altered as a result. If you want further information, please check the individual listings or contact the number listed. SEPTIC TANKS in Belize are available for purchase.
25 SEPTIC TANKS found in Belize
View the best matches first and then sort by them.
Sutherland Septic Services
7501 Mangrove St BZC| Chemical Cleaning-IndustrialIs Currently Open
Belmopan AggregatesHardware
Building Materials-RetailView7 Other ListingsClosed Now at 5 Forest Drive in Belmopan, California.
Builders Hardware Ltd
Constitution Drive BelmopanBelize, CA| Hardware-RetailView3 Other ListingsClosed ImmediatelyConstitution Drive BelmopanBelize, CA| Hardware-Retail
Reimer’s Service Center
Tire Dealers-WholesaleDistributorsClosed Now on Center Road in Spanish Lookout, California
MM Engineering Consultants Ltd
2 ounces Buildings-Prefabricated on Philip Goldson Highway (BZC)
Arregis Construction Ltd.
View2 other listingsClosed NowMile 15.5 Maya Beach; PlacenciaBelize, CA| ConstructionView2 other listingsClosed Now
Medina’s Construction Ltd
9 and a half miles The Phillip Goldson Memorial Highway Ladyville, California| Construction EquipmentClosed Immediately
Prosser FertilizerAgrotec Co Ltd
10.5 kilometers (9.50 kilometers) a road named after Phillip Goldson CLOSED NOW in Ladyville, California | Construction Equipment
Belize Western Energy Ltd
St. Luke’s Letter to the Corinthians Saint Charles Street Belize CA| Butane GasClosed for the Time Being
Hermano’s Hardware Ltd
Boca Del Rio Boulevard San Pedro, CA| Hardware-RetailClosed for the Time Being
Ciann’s FeteFiesta Rentals
Cayman Islands | Belize City CA| Party SuppliesView1 Other Listings are now closed.
Tracpac
The Party Supplies of Belize City, Belize, CAView1 Listings in Other CategoriesClosed Immediately
Sealand HarvestersDevelopers Ltd
221 Queen Victoria Avenue, OWT| Building Materials
FB Trailers
Baltimore Dr SPL| Pumps | Baltimore Dr SPL
Gomez Construction
San Martin Avenue, Belmopan, California| Construction MaterialsClosed for the time being Results 1-15 out of 25 total results See all of the articles
Latest Articles
Carolyn Lee is a lifestyle writer.
Pay Attention to These 10 Habits That Drain Your Finances
Carolyn Lee contributed to this article.
Biodigester Septic Tanks presented in Belize
The Embassy of Mexico in Belize issued a press release on November 17, 2011. SEPTI-K, a Mexican firm based in Merida, Yucatan, unveiled its revolutionary biodigester tanks in Belmopan yesterday and in Belize City today, after a presentation in Belmopan yesterday. The biodigester septic tanks are a novel technology that treats home water waste and improves the method in which it is discharged into the environment in a practical and hygienic manner, while also being environmentally friendly. The Ministry of Health has amended this innovative technology, and the usage of the tanks in Belize has been approved for the first time in the country.
Mr.
The presentations were presided over by Mario Velazquez, the Mexican Ambassador to the United States.
Engineers, architects, construction suppliers, and members of private sector organizations were among those who attended the presentations, which were also attended by government officials, representatives of construction and tourist enterprises, and representatives of hotels.
Please help support Local Journalism in Belize
The San Pedro Sun, the island’s community newspaper, is reaching out to its thousands of readers for the first time in its existence to ask for their assistance in supporting the publication during the COVID-19 outbreak. Since 1991, we have worked relentlessly to bring you important local and national news. Our community relies on us for trustworthy reporting now more than ever, but our hard work comes at a price, and we must bear it. We require your assistance in order to continue bringing the news you rely on on a daily basis.
Please consider making a donation to help us.
Donate Now by clicking here.
Subscribe to RSS feeds to stay up to date.
More Aerated Septic systems installed at resort developments in northern Ambergris Caye
Aerated septic systems, which are more effective in treating sewage and wastewater, are being used by stakeholders in northern Ambergris Caye, in accordance with the advice. To coexist with the delicate environment that surrounds the island’s tourism business, it is felt that investing in this environmentally friendly improvement is the most cost-effective and ecologically beneficial choice available. Construction of the new infrastructure has already begun at Secret Beach on the island, and it will soon be completed at a well-known property named Mara Laguna (previously known as Barrier Reef Resort) north of San Pedro Town.
- Through his septic tank design and installation business, Rice is helping to reduce the problem of incorrect sewage treatment on the island of St.
- The San Pedro Sun paid him a visit while he was at work, and he explained to us why this renovation at his new working location was very necessary.
- It was discovered that the failure of certain septic systems was causing leaks, which increased the risk of sewage seeping into the nearby rivers.
- In addition to being in poor condition, the existing system was not adequately handling garbage.
- Interceptors are used to handle waste from kitchens and bathroom sinks in the same manner as the system at Secret Beach, which processes kitchen waste and breaks down bathroom waste.
- Solid waste is still a problem.
- Solid waste normally accumulates at the bottom of septic tanks and must be scraped out regularly, otherwise it might block the septic tank and cause it to cease operating.
This is regarded to be the driving force for unlawful dumping, as there is nowhere for it to be disposed of.
They do not have the ability to take the solids, according to Rice, because their ponds are not built to break down the waste.
This system is comprised of a number of substations that are responsible for the breakdown of garbage.
The sole option has been a proposal to BWSL to construct a ‘Tip Bed,’ adjacent to the sewage ponds, where solid waste may be gathered and allowed to dry before being disposed of.
However, BWSL has made no indication that it intends to carry out the project, and we have received no response to our inquiries on the proposal from the water business.
According to reports, the funding for this project have not yet been acquired.
Consequently, detrimental affects on the island’s delicate ecosystem, notably the MesoAmerican Barrier Reef, which provides livelihoods for thousands of people, would be reduced to a minimum.
Although such waste management improvements are costly, they have become vital in order to protect the valuable natural resources that benefit Ambergris Caye.
Please help support Local Journalism in Belize
The San Pedro Sun, the island’s community newspaper, is reaching out to its thousands of readers for the first time in its existence to ask for their assistance in supporting the publication during the COVID-19 outbreak. Since 1991, we have worked relentlessly to bring you important local and national news. Our community relies on us for trustworthy reporting now more than ever, but our hard work comes at a price, and we must bear it. We require your assistance in order to continue bringing the news you rely on on a daily basis.
Please consider making a donation to help us.
Donate Now by clicking here.
Subscribe to RSS feeds to stay up to date.
Belize Expat Forum: Septic Pumping
Belize City Guide for Those Who Want to Live There Anyone considering relocating to Belize should carefully assess the advantages and disadvantages of living as an expat in Belize. The article covers perspectives from expats on the negative aspects (crime, inadequate healthcare, bad road conditions, and more) as well as the positive aspects (beautiful beaches, friendly people, low cost of living and more). Belize Forum is a gathering of people that are interested in Belize and its people. Join our Belize forum to network with other expats and discuss the benefits of living in Belize.
Belize’s Most Desirable Neighborhoods If you’re considering relocating to Belize, we have five excellent locations to suggest based on the experiences of expatriates who have lived in the country.
While some expatriates advise individuals suffering from major health concerns not to relocate to Belize, others chose Corozal because of its accessibility to physicians and clinics in Chetumal, Mexico, which is only across the border.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Belize Remove your rose-colored glasses and listen to what expatriates have to say about the most difficult aspects of living in Belize as well as the most rewarding aspects of the country.
Build Your Own Home In Belize
Beach cottages in the northern part of Belize that are small and medium in size. The cost of building your own home in Belize is less expensive than the cost of purchasing one, especially if you act as your own general contractor. As a general rule of thumb in Belizean construction, building a home rather than purchasing an existing one will provide you with a better value for your money. You’ll frequently bring home a lot more than you bargained for. However, you will get far more headaches as a result of this.
The purchase of an abandoned or half-built home at one of the government or bank auctions, followed by the completion of the construction yourself, is another alternative for expats looking to build in Belize.
Finding the proper architect and contractor to help you construct your own house in Belize on time and on budget is the key to finishing your project on time and on budget.
The majority of the time, word of mouth will lead you to the most qualified contractor. And the most effective method is to speak with locals and expats who have successfully established themselves in the area and listen to their recommendations.
Home Construction Costs In Belize
In northern Belize, an example of a hybrid concrete first floor with structural support columns and beams, with Belizean hardwood second storey and smart cross gable zinc roof apartments created by expats. It is possible for construction expenses to vary based on a variety of circumstances, including the cost of transporting supplies to the construction site, the topography, and the quality of the job. Because of the requirement for hurricane-resistant building near the coast and in the cayes, construction prices are greater in these areas.
- The cost of construction is likewise greater in southern Belize than in northern Belize.
- Carpenters and masons in Belize earn between US$25 to $40 a day, which is much less than their counterparts in the United States of America (USA).
- While labor is inexpensive in Belize, building tasks typically take longer to complete.
- The availability of competent artisans such as electricians and plumbers outside of metropolitan regions is limited.
- Generally speaking, the cost of a square foot of construction in Belize is from US$30 and $150, not considering the cost of land.
- Most generally, you can anticipate to pay between US$50 and $90 per square foot, which means that a 1,500 square foot home would cost between US$75,000 and $135,000 to construct, not counting land costs.
- Regardless of where or how you build, you must be there on the building site to supervise and oversee the project, or you must hire someone whom you fully trust to do it on your behalf.
- It is fairly unusual for a house to be built in eight to twelve months, or even longer.
- If you have a large residence, you may require two or more septic tanks.
However, it is less expensive and quicker to just purchase poly or steel water tanks and place them on a concrete slab. A crumbling colonial-era mansion in southern Belize that is a good candidate for restoration.
Types Of Home Construction Suitable For the Tropics
When building in hurricane and tropical storm-prone locations, you’ll need to put in deep pilings and raise the first story above ground level in order to prevent water damage from occurring. These can cost anywhere from US$3,000 to $5,000 per piling, depending on the area, the depth of the pilings, and the type of pilings used. In the Belize City region, a medical practitioner who recently built his house informed us that the foundation and pilings cost him $100,000, which was around one-third of the total cost of his small home — and this did not include the cost of the land.
In most cases, reinforced concrete is used to create a home foundation slabs and walls, with industrial galvalume roofing resting on pressure-treated wood or metal beams as a final layer of protection against the elements.
A concrete roof is recommended for the highest level of security.
Traditional thatch building is no longer covered by reputable insurance companies in Belize, and some will also refuse to cover wood frame construction if the house is located on the shore or in the cayes.
Insurance, if it is offered, will differ depending on the kind of construction: Premiums for wood frame construction in coastal or island locations can reach 2 to 5 percent of the total value every year, whilst steel construction will see premiums of approximately 1.25 percent of the whole value and reinforced concrete will see premiums of 1.5 percent or less per year.
Rural regions lacked any kind of building codes at all, and builders frequently flouted any that did exist.
Only registered architects and engineers in Belize are permitted to submit designs to the Central Building Authority (CBA) for approval, according to the country’s legislation.
An experienced Belize architect is highly recommended since these experts can design homes and structures that are compatible with the local environment and save you a significant amount of money by using green house features and environmentally friendly technologies.
M.A. Romero, Chief Information Officer (RET), and Luis Ruiz, B. Arch, MSc. LAR Consulting Architects contributed to this article.
An environment under threat: Belize’s Ambergris Caye lacks adequate solid waste management
The treatment of sewage and wastewater on Ambergris Caye is a continuing problem that appears to be becoming worse as the island continues to expand. In particular, one of the primary worries is the volume of solid waste that will be created over the long run, given there is currently no designated space on island for solid waste from septic systems to be dumped. While the local authorities do not appear to have a long-term answer, companies in the Secret Beach region of northwest Ambergris Caye have been instructed to install aerated septic tanks in order to reduce the impact on the island’s fragile ecosystem.
- Chuck Rice is one of the islanders who is attempting to ease the situation by offering his skills.
- When it comes to solid sewage waste treatment, Rice feels that if the essential steps are not put in place, the situation and its impact on the marine ecosystem might become serious.
- Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL) operates sewage ponds in the southern part of Ambergris Caye, however they do not take solid waste.
- Photo courtesy of Dion Vasen.
- Only solid waste from residences and businesses connected to their sewage system, which runs from downtown to their ponds, may be accepted by them.
- However, Rice added that the majority of the island is not connected to this system, leaving people with no other choices for treating their solid waste.
- In addition, it makes use of interceptors, which filter and break down all of the waste from the kitchen (greases, food scraps, etc.) and from the restrooms.
However, it should not be disposed of into the environment without first passing through a filtering process.
However, there are difficulties.
One is that Secret Beach is not yet linked to the local energy grid, which means that all companies must rely on generators to power their operations.
“Aeration is dependent on a continuous supply of electricity,” Rice explained.
Some of this effluent contains urine, which, according to Rice, does not decompose very quickly.
Another huge issue is where all of this water is going to be disposed of. Rice stated that whenever the island experiences its busiest seasons, a large quantity of rubbish is created, which is beginning to express itself outside the island and finding its way to the barrier reef.
The efficiency of aerated systems
According to Rice, aerated systems are extremely efficient, but they are also quite costly. “In order to have a working system, it is necessary to do regular maintenance. They will become clogged with particles to the point where they will no longer function if you do not do regular maintenance,” Rice adds. This procedure is both time-consuming and expensive, and when someone want to clean their septic system, just the water is taken, leaving the solids behind. However, because there is no location to dispose of the solid waste, the possibilities of unlawful dumping continuing remain high, at least until the government make the required expenditures to protect the environment.
One solution
Rice advises that a suitable vacuum truck be purchased to clean the island’s septic systems, as well as the construction of a “Tip Bed” adjacent to the sewage ponds. Rice claims that the tip bed would be intended to handle solids, that it could be constructed in a short period of time, and that it would cost around $250,000BZ (US$12,400). It would filter the solid waste, collect it, and allow it to dry out using screens and a drying chamber. Following that, the solid garbage could be scraped out and sent to a waste transfer facility where it could be properly disposed of.
- / Photograph courtesy of Dion Vansen Rice submitted the project’s plans to the Department of Environment and the Bureau of Water and Sewerage in July of this year.
- Rice stated that, as of today, there has been no word or indication of any plans on the part of BWSL to carry out the project, which has the potential to assist ease the problem of unlawful solid waste dumping on Ambergris Caye, she added.
- With all of the residential and commercial structures on the island, it is felt that this might be a win-win situation, with less harmful waste entering the environment and the possibility for new employment being generated as a result.
- A water treatment facility on northern Ambergris Caye, valued at $60 million Belizean dollars, is the sole proposal from BWSL that has been revealed thus far, according to the company.
- But, until then, and with each passing day, solid garbage will continue to pile and be thrown into the rivers surrounding the island, since there is no place for this dangerous waste to be disposed of.
- The San Pedro Sun published an earlier version of this item on January 17, 2020, which may be seen here.
The Earth Journalism Network’sMesoamerican Reef Reporting project offered assistance with the reporting for this story. Image used as the banner: An overhead view of the Mesoamerican Reef off the shore of Ambergris Caye / Photograph by Dion Vansen
The Onsite Community Travels to Help the Needy in Belize
A appropriate vacuum truck to clean the island’s septic systems, along with the construction of a “Tip Bed” close to the sewage ponds, are two recommendations made by Rice and his colleagues. Rice claims that the tip bed would be intended to handle solids, that it could be constructed in a short period of time, and that it would cost around $250,000BZ (US$12,400.) It would filter the solid waste, collect it, and allow it to dry off using screens and other equipment. Solid garbage could then be scraped out and sent to a waste transfer facility where it could be properly disposed of.
- Authorized by the photographer Dion Vansen Rice handed up the project’s plans to the Department of the Environment and the Bureau of Water and Sewerage in July of 2018.
- The proposal, which may assist relieve the issue of unlawful solid waste dumping on Ambergris Caye, has not yet been implemented, according to Rice, and there has been no word or indication of any plans on the part of BWSL to do so.
- With all of the residential and commercial structures on the island, it is felt that this might be a win-win situation, with less harmful waste entering the environment and the potential for new employment being produced as a result of the construction.
- A water treatment plant in northern Ambergris Caye, valued at $60 million Belizean dollars, is the sole project from BWSL that has been publicized thus far.
- But, until then, and with each passing day, solid garbage will continue to pile and be thrown into the rivers surrounding the island, since there is no place for this poisonous material to be disposed of properly.
- It was published in the San Pedro Sunon January 17, 2020, in an earlier version of the story.
- Credit: Dion Vansen / An aerial view of the Mesoamerican Reef off the shore of Ambergris Caye / Banner image:
Making connections
Belize was chosen as the destination because the Rev. James Hodsden of First Presbyterian Church of Norwalk had visited the country several times, according to Greg Graves, a member of the church who is also the general manager of Norweco, which is based in Norwalk. “The Rev. James Hodsden of First Presbyterian Church of Norwalk had visited Belize several times,” says Graves. Graves recalls that it had been some years since a mission trip from the church had been outside of the United States’ boundaries.
- Their hosts in Belize, from The Word At Work, recommended a number of initiatives, one of which being the House of Hope, which became one of their most significant missions.
- When he mentioned wastewater or sewage, the engineers’ eyes lit up, and they told him that they had “all kinds of work” for him.
- As soon as the wastewater system for the shelter was added to the project list, the following concern was how to go about implementing it successfully.
- In addition, he claims that Infiltrator has solved the difficulty of delivering equipment to Central America.
The infiltrator sent its equipment to Gulfport, Mississippi, where volunteers observed it being put onto a container heading for Belize and reported it to the authorities.
Finding skills
During this period, Keefer worked out the details of how to set up the system. The wastewater work was slated to begin in February, but Keefer was able to visit the site on a church trip in November, which allowed him to learn more about the project. Then he took a look at the list of persons who would be going on the February trip, as well as the projects they would be working on, and cherry-picked those who had the abilities he required. “As I previously stated, I require individuals who are knowledgeable on some of this material.
“It’s just not possible to have every Tom, Dick, and Harry destroying Infiltrator chambers,” Keefer explains.
The fact that I’ve been associated with the wastewater and septic industries for the past 25 years gave me a thorough understanding of how systems operate.
Simple flow
The system itself is straightforward. Water is discharged from the building through a 4-inch Schedule 40 pipe and into an existing three-chamber concrete block septic tank, which serves as a settling and main treatment system for the waste water. Water is discharged from the tank to a lift station, which also collects wastewater from a grease trap that serves the restaurant’s kitchen. A 2-inch pipe elevates wastewater to a 4-inch pipe, and from there, water flows through the Infiltrator chambers due to gravity.
- Water runs across the ground and into another 4-inch pipe, which transports it to the next set of chambers in the system.
- The chambers were built on top of natural dirt.
- 180 Quick4 Equalizer 36 LP chambers were utilized in the construction of the project.
- In order to maintain gravity flow throughout the system, the first set of chambers was set at around 6 inches deep, the second at approximately 12 inches, the third at approximately 20 inches, and the last set at approximately 35 to 36 inches deep.
Tropical heat
At the time of Keefer’s visit in November, he had spoken with the church’s local contact about the possibility of renting an excavator for the construction project. He claims that the soil was the worst he had ever seen, consisting primarily of crumbly clay with a lot of boulders. In addition, his team would be traveling from the Midwest during the winter to perform physical labor in the heat and humidity of the tropics. In his words, “none of us are in good enough shape to take shovels and head out to the field and start digging.” “And our contact says, ‘All right, I’ll go ahead and get you an excavator.'” When his team arrived in February, they discovered that they had no excavator.
- According to Keefer, one of them had a broken handle.
- This particular House of Hope is a favorite of municipal authorities, according to Kevin Ferber, and an operator and a backhoe were assigned to complete the first dig.
- In addition, the church group required the machinery due to the large number of stones and the difficult soil.
- At first, the construction crew considered drilling a hole under the pavement.
- “The excavator was having a difficult time removing them.” The excavator ultimately cleared enough room for a single pipe, so the crew constructed a manifold to connect the pipes from three rows of chambers into a single pipe for the rest of the project.
- The first day was devoted coordinating personnel and figuring out how to put together the equipment that had been brought to the location.
- A core group of four people was assigned to the wastewater project, and this was augmented by others who came and departed as needed based on their position on the project.
- As a result, Keefer spent a significant amount of time running parts.
- The language barrier was not an issue.
- The problem was locating the supplies he and his crew required.
“Every now and again, they had the pieces. “Sometimes they did, and sometimes they didn’t,” Keefer explains. You can get a 90-degree elbow down in that part of town.” “That’s all there is to it.” According to him, “it’s incredible how far 15 feet of Schedule 40 PVC will bend.”
Technology revealed
The members of the group had to pay close attention to their safety. Hard helmets were not provided, and safety glasses were only made accessible to those who had taken them with them. People did not have enough capacity for several types of personal protective equipment, according to Keefer, because of airline luggage constraints. The church project did not completely meet all of Marla’s House of Hope’s wastewater requirements. In addition to the main septic tank, a second septic tank is located on the other side of the structure and empties to the surface, according to Keefer.
The idea also piqued the curiosity of city authorities in Belmopan, who were enthusiastic about it.
Although there has been talk of a second mission trip to Belize in the future, Keefer is unsure whether another wastewater system would play a role this time.
“It’s one of the finest things I’ve ever been a part of,” he adds of the project.
Standard Septic Systems
When it comes to treating residential wastewater, a regular wastewater system combined with a soil absorption system is the most cost-effective technique currently available. However, in order for it to function correctly, you must select the appropriate septic system for your home size and soil type, and you must keep it in good working order on a regular basis.
What size septic tank do I need?
Septic tank size requirements are determined by the number of bedrooms in a house, the number of people who live there, the square footage of a house, and whether or not water-saving gadgets are installed. If you want to obtain a general sense of what size septic tank your home requires, look at the table below.
| Bedrooms | Home Square Footage | Tank Capacity |
| 1 or 2 | Less than 1,500 | 750 |
| 3 | Less than 2,500 | 1,000 |
| 4 | Less than 3,500 | 1,250 |
| 5 | Less than 4,500 | 1,250 |
| 6 | Less than 5,500 | 1,315 |
How often should my tank be pumped?
A regular pumping of the tank is required to maintain your system operating properly and treating sewage efficiently. Sludge collects at the bottom of the septic tank as a result of the usage of the septic system. Because of the rise in sludge level, wastewater spends less time in the tank and solids have a greater chance of escaping into the absorption region. If sludge collects for an excessive amount of time, there is no settling and the sewage is directed directly to the soil absorption region, with no treatment.
You can find out how often you should get your tank pumped by looking at the table below.
If you fail to maintain the tank for an extended period of time, you may be forced to replace the soil absorption field.
Solids can enter the field if the tank is not pumped on a regular basis.
Wet soils that have been saturated by rains are incapable of receiving wastewater. Planting cool-season grasses over the soil absorption field in the winter can aid in the removal of water from the soil and the maintenance of the system’s appropriate operation and performance.
Other maintenance
Another maintenance activity that must be completed on a regular basis to protect the system from backing up is to clean the effluent filter, which is located in the tank’s outflow tee and is responsible for additional wastewater filtration. This filter eliminates extra particulates from the wastewater and prevents them from being clogged in the absorption field, which would cause the absorption field to fail prematurely. You may clean the filter yourself by spraying it with a hose, or you can have your maintenance provider clean the filter for you if necessary.
Two critical components
A septic tank and a soil absorption system are the two primary components of a standard treatment system.
Tank
The septic tank is an enclosed, waterproof container that collects and treats wastewater, separating the particles from the liquid. It is used for primary treatment of wastewater. It works by retaining wastewater in the tank and letting the heavier particles (such as oil and greases) to settle to the bottom of the tank while the floatable solids (such as water and sewage) rise to the surface. The tank should be able to store the wastewater for at least 24 hours in order to provide time for the sediments to settle.
Up to 50% of the particles stored in the tank decompose, with the remainder accumulating as sludge at the tank bottom, which must be cleaned on a regular basis by pumping the tank out.
Drainfield
Ultimately, the soil absorption field is responsible for the final treatment and distribution of wastewater. Traditional systems consist of perforated pipes surrounded by media such as gravel and chipped tires, which are then coated with geo-textile fabric and loamy soil to create a permeable barrier. This method depends mainly on the soil to treat wastewater, where microorganisms assist in the removal of organic debris, sediments, and nutrients that have been left in the water after it has been treated.
As the water moves through the soil, the mat slows its passage and helps to prevent the soil below the mat from being saturated.
The grass that grows on top of the soil absorption system takes use of the nutrients and water to flourish as well.
Septic tank types
There are three primary types of septic tanks used for on-site wastewater treatment: cisterns, septic tanks, and septic tanks with a pump.
- Concrete septic tanks are the most popular type of septic tank. Fiberglass tanks – Because they are lightweight and portable, they are frequently used in remote or difficult-to-reach sites. Lightweight polyethylene/plastic tanks, similar to fiberglass tanks, may be transported to “difficult-to-reach” sites since they are one-piece constructions.
It is necessary for all tanks to be waterproof in order to prevent water from entering as well as exiting the system.
Factors in septic maintenance
A critical consideration in the construction of a septic tank is the link between the amount of surface area it has, the amount of sewage it can hold, the amount of wastewater that is discharged, and the rate at which it escapes. All of these factors influence the effectiveness of the tank as well as the quantity of sludge it retains. The bigger the liquid surface area of the tank, the greater the amount of sewage it can hold. As more particles accumulate in the tank, the water level in the tank grows shallower, necessitating a slower discharge rate in order to give the sludge and scum more time to separate from one another.
An aperture must be utilized on the tank lid if it is more than 12 inches below the soil surface, and a riser must be used on the openings in order to bring the lid to within 6 inches of the soil surface.
In most cases, the riser may be extended all the way to the ground surface and covered by a sturdy lid. It is quite simple to do maintenance on the tank thanks to these risers.
Soil types
There are three types of soil textures: sand, silt, and clay, and each has an impact on how quickly wastewater filters into the soil (a property known as hydraulic conductivity) and how large an absorption field is required. Sand transports water more quickly than silt, which transfers water more quickly than clay. According to Texas laws, these three soil textures are subdivided into five soil kinds (Ia, Ib, II, III, IV). Sandy soils are classified as soil type I, whereas clay soils are classified as soil type IV.
The Hydraulic Loading, which is the quantity of effluent applied per square foot of trench surface, is also significant in the design.
For this reason, only nonstandard drain fields are suitable for use in clay soils due to the poor conductivity of clay soils.
The Texas A&M University System’s Agricultural Communications department.
L-5227 was published on April 10, 2000.
