What Is Better: A Septic Tank Or A Sewer Line?

Almost every home disposes of wastewater in one of two ways - through a sewer line or septic tank. Each method offers a unique set of advantages. Whether you're trying to upgrade your home's wastewater management system, convert from one system to another, or thinking of creating one, you may be wondering which option is better suited for your home.

To understand and appreciate which option is best, it's best to analyze both options side-by-side.

Septic tank vs. sewer line: what is the difference?

The primary difference between a sewer system and a septic system lies in how each system treats water. A sewer system moves the wastewater underground, away from your home, to a central treatment plant. On the other hand, a septic system treats the wastewater on-site. In most cases, the system is built underground on the land your property or house stands.

Both systems accomplish the same purpose: to clean your wastewater while ensuring that no contaminants get into the underground water supply.

The Septic Tank

How does a septic tank system work?

As mentioned previously, a septic tank system works on-site, as every wastewater treatment takes place on your property. A septic tank system generally works by separating your wastewater content and breaking them down. Wastewater contains liquid, solid particles, bacteria, and other elements that become contaminants when left untreated.

The septic system treats your wastewater by breaking down every material in your wastewater until they become natural elements and is returned to the treated water on-site, protecting underground water in the process.

Benefits of the septic tank system

The septic tank system usually requires more attention and maintenance at home. However, it is pretty inexpensive to maintain once installed, as you don't pay any monthly fees.

The system takes up less energy with minimal environmental impact, as it doesn't require wastewater to be pumped over a long distance. Using a septic tank also reduces any risk of leakage between the system and the home or property.

If you prefer independence from the municipal sewage system or want to go off-grid, a septic system will give you all the security and independence you need.

The Sewer Line System

How does a sewer line system work?

A sewer line takes wastewater away from your home to one big tube or pipe that leads to a much larger pipe or line connected to a central treatment system, usually managed by the city authority.

The sewer system operates as a network of sewer pipes that connect to a treatment plant away from your home. Just like the septic tank, the plant treats the wastewater to prevent contamination of underground water.

Benefits of the sewer line system

Once your wastewater system is connected to the central sewage system, there's no need

to worry about anything else except paying a monthly wastewater fee.

You'll also avoid the burden of maintenance and sewer repair issues, as the city water department will handle that.

Also, you won't have to worry about clogging, as the lines usually carry more wastewater. You can also enjoy years of usage; sewer lines tend to hold up pretty well, even after years of usage.