Choosing the Right Size Septic Tank

If you are building a new home with a septic or replacing an existing system, choosing your tank size is a crucial decision. You don’t want a tank that is too small; that will mean frequent pumping and possible backups if it gets too full, too quickly. But a tank that is too large can be a waste. Although there are set parameters you can follow based on the size of your home, there are other considerations. The number of bedrooms or bathrooms in your home is just the basic measurement. Here are a few other factors to keep in mind:

  • Daily usage. The rule of thumb for septic tanks is that it should hold at least double the amount of your daily usage. While this is a good estimate, keep in mind your usage can change. For young families, that usage may grow.
  • Plan for growth in household. Are you planning to have more kids or have parents move into your home in the future? If your household will grow in the next few years, consider the extra space you will need in your septic tank to accommodate a larger family.
  • Excessive use. Make sure to consider any additions you may make to your home. If you may run a business out of your home or do other work that will use excessive water, you may need a tank that can handle the extra use.

Of course, you will need to meet the legal requirements for your municipality or county. Talk to your local septic service company for help choosing the right size tank for your new septic system.

Posted on behalf of:
Septic Service Pro, LLC
Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30334
(678) 292-8728

What Determines the Size of Your Septic System?

Yes, in regards to septic sewer systems, size does matter! Although septic tanks are manufactured in a variety of sizes, it must be able to adequately process the wastewater capacity of your home or business. Commercial septic tanks can hold up to 5,000 gallons or more; whereas, residential tanks are usually 1,000 to 2,000 gallons in capacity and are generally based on the number of bedrooms in a home. Likewise, the size and capacity of the drain field into which all the liquid waste is pumped must accommodate the size of the tank. Furthermore, the size of the drain field can vary, depending on the type of soil at the site.

It should be noted that, for residential homes, local building codes or public health ordinances may determine the size of the septic tank, regardless of the number of bedrooms. Most regions seem to have a minimum tank capacity of at least 1,000 gallons, even if you just have a one bedroom home. With that exception in mind, you can easily count the desired septic tank size for your home simply by counting the bedrooms. One or two bedroom houses typically need a 750 gallon septic tank. Next, add 250 gallons to the tank for each additional bedroom. When in doubt, choose the larger capacity.  A septic system that is too small will require more frequent septic tank pumping and is more likely to fail prematurely.

You may want to have your local septic sewer service professional inspect your septic system to ensure that it is functioning properly and that it is the right size for your home. Furthermore, if you are considering building onto your home an additional bedroom, installing a larger septic system may be necessary; check with local public ordinances and health codes to ensure you remain in compliance.