Introduction
Concrete septic tanks are durable, but they can still fail. Discover the most frequent causes and how to avoid them. Concrete septic tanks are a commonly used method of sewage treatment in rural and suburban areas. However, these tanks can fail for a variety of reasons, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards. The main cause of failure for concrete septic tanks is due to :
Why Do Concrete Septic Tanks Fail: Sulfuric Acid
Sulfuric Acid, is a highly corrosive and strong acid with the chemical formula H2SO4. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a pungent, irritating smell and is highly reactive with a variety of compounds. One of the key properties of hydrochloric acid is its high acidity, which is measured by its pH level. It has a pH of 1, making it one of the strongest acids available. Its high acidity gives it the ability to dissolve many materials, including metals and minerals.
Another important property of sulfuric acid is its corrosive nature. It can cause severe damage to various materials, including concrete. When in contact with concrete, sulfuric acid reacts with the calcium compounds in the concrete, causing it to dissolve and weaken. This process, known as concrete corrosion, can lead to structural damage and even collapse if left unchecked.
To prevent concrete corrosion caused by sulfuric acid, it is important to protect concrete surfaces with a or coating that can withstand acid attacks. Additionally, regular maintenance and inspection of concrete surfaces can help to detect and address any signs of corrosion before they become severe. It’s important to make sure that the septic tank is properly ventilated to prevent the accumulation of hydrogen sulphide gas, which can lead to the formation of sulfuric acid. This can be done by installing septic air vents.
Why Do Concrete Septic Tanks Fail: Cold Weather
Another common cause of failure is cold weather. Concrete is a porous material and can be susceptible to cracking when exposed to freezing temperatures. This can lead to leaks and breaches in the tank, allowing sewage to escape and potentially contaminate the surrounding soil and groundwater.
Live Loads
Live loads, such as driving over the septic tank, can also cause failure. The weight of vehicles can cause the tank to crack or even collapse, leading to leaks and sewage backups.
Poor Backfill And Poor Concrete Grade
Poor backfill and poor concrete grade can also contribute to concrete septic tank failure. Backfill is the material used to fill the area around the tank and support it. If the backfill is not properly compacted or is of poor quality, the tank can settle and become unstable. Similarly, if the concrete used to construct the tank is of a low grade, it may not be able to withstand the stresses of everyday use and may crack or fail.
Tree Roots
Tree roots can also be a problem for septic tanks. The roots of trees can grow into the tank and cause damage to the concrete, as well as clog the pipes and impede the flow of sewage.
Improper Installation
Improper installation is another common cause of septic tank failure. If the tank is not installed correctly, it can be unstable and may not function properly. This can lead to leaks and sewage backups, as well as potential health hazards.
Why Do Concrete Septic Tanks Fail: Clogs
Clogs in the pipes and excessive water use can also cause septic tanks to fail. If the pipes become clogged with debris, sewage can back up and cause the tank to overflow. Excessive water use can also put a strain on the system, leading to leaks and backups.
Maintenance
Finally, lack of maintenance can contribute to septic tank failure. Regular maintenance, such as pumping out the septic tank and inspecting it for cracks or leaks, can help to prevent problems from arising. Without regular maintenance, small issues can become big problems, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, concrete septic tanks can fail for a variety of reasons, including sulfuric acid, cold weather, live loads, poor backfill, poor concrete grade, tree roots intrusion, improper installation, clogs, excessive water use, and lack of maintenance. To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your septic tank, it is important to be aware of these potential causes of failure and to take steps to prevent them.
