A septic system is more than a tank.

Follow the wastewater through the system

In a typical septic system, wastewater enters a tank where solids settle and floating material separates. Effluent then moves to the dispersal area for further treatment in suitable soil. Some designs use additional treatment equipment or pumped distribution.

Give each component its own job

• Building sewer: the specified pipe and connections from the building.
• Treatment tank: the exact model, capacity and configuration on the plan.
• Distribution: gravity components, a distribution box or pumping equipment where the design calls for them.
• Dispersal area: the area and components specified after a site assessment.
• Access and maintenance: the lids, risers and other details needed for the planned service arrangement.

Turn the system plan into a materials list

Start with the practitioner’s component schedule. Give each required item a quantity and drawing reference. Keep items that still need clarification visible as questions, so a quote does not quietly become a design decision.

What a catalog cannot tell you

A tank’s volume does not determine whether a property has enough suitable dispersal area. Ask the person responsible for the design to resolve soil conditions, siting and any additional treatment requirements before you select products.