Do you know what separates a septic system from a sewer? Though they both serve the purpose of transporting wastewater away from your home and to a treatment facility, they function differently.

If you’re on a budget and your home’s foundation isn’t quite ready to support sewer lines, you may consider using a septic system in the interim. How can you ensure your septic system is working at an optimal level?

If you’re confused by septic system vs sewer, this brief guide can help you distinguish between the two.

The Difference Between Septic Systems and Sewers

The main difference between septic systems and sewers is that sewers are connected to the main pipe that carries waste away to a water treatment facility, while septic systems are individual, on-site systems that treat and dispose of wastewater.

Septic systems are usually used in rural areas where there is no central sewer system, while sewers are typically used in urban areas. Septic systems are also more environmentally friendly than sewers, as they return treated water back to the ground rather than into waterways. 

The Benefits of Septic Systems and Sewers

Septic systems treat wastewater from toilets, showers, sinks, and laundry, and they discharge the treated wastewater into the ground. The main benefits of septic systems are that they are environmentally friendly, they are cost-effective, and they require minimal maintenance.

Septic systems are environmentally friendly because they use natural processes to treat wastewater. The wastewater is treated with bacteria and enzymes that break down the organic matter. This process of using bacteria and enzymes to break down organic matter is called biodegradation.

Biodegradation is a natural process that occurs in the environment. Septic systems are also environmentally friendly because they do not discharge treated wastewater into surface water bodies, such as lakes and streams.

Sewers have helped to improve public health in several ways. They have helped to reduce the spread of disease by carrying away waste and sewage. They have also helped to reduce pollution in rivers and streams.

Sewers have also helped to reduce the risk of flooding by carrying away excess water. If you need maintenance for your septic tank or sewer, check these maintenance programs.

The Disadvantages of Septic Systems and Sewers

A septic system is usually used in rural areas where public sewers are not available. Septic systems have many disadvantages. One of the main disadvantages is the high cost of septic systems.

The cost of a septic system depends on the size of the system and the soil conditions on the property. Septic systems must be maintained regularly to prevent problems. Septic systems can fail if they are not properly maintained.

There are a few disadvantages to sewers that you should know about. First, they can be smelly and full of bacteria. Second, they can attract rodents and other pests.

Third, they can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. Finally, they can be a health hazard if not properly maintained.

Here Are the Differences: Septic System vs Sewer

So, what’s the difference of septic system vs sewer? Septic systems are used when a property is not connected to a sewer system and the soil can absorb the effluent. Sewers are used when a property is connected to a central wastewater treatment system.

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