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Guide to Septic Tank Cost in Brisbane

Guide to Septic Tank Cost in Brisbane

Septic tanks are an integral part of many households and businesses. They provide an efficient and cost-effective solution for managing wastewater, and they can be used in both residential and commercial properties.

This guide provides an overview of the costs associated with installing a septic tank in Brisbane. By understanding these costs and the factors that can affect them, you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is the best solution for your needs.

What is a Septic Tank?

What is a Septic Tank
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A septic tank is a self-contained, underground wastewater treatment system that separates solids from liquids. It is a common type of onsite wastewater treatment system used in rural areas where there is no connection to a public sewer line.

The septic tank collects and stores wastewater, allowing solids to settle at the bottom while liquid effluent flows out into the drain field. It also helps to reduce odors and prevent groundwater contamination by breaking down organic matter.

Cost of Septic Tank in Brisbane

Cost of Septic Tank in Brisbane
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In Brisbane, the average septic tank cost for a conventional system for a four-bedroom house ranges between $7,000 and $15,000. This includes setting up, creating, and implementing an absorption trench system where wastewater can safely flow.

Average Cost of the Different Septic Tank Materials

The cost of a septic tank varies greatly depending on the material used. Knowing these costs helps you make an informed decision when selecting a tank for your property. The following are the different septic tank materials and their corresponding average costs.

Septic Tank MaterialAverage Cost
Concrete$1,200 – $5,000
Steel$3,000 – $10,000
Plastic$500 – $1,500
Fiberglass$1,500 – $2,000
Poly$500 – $1,500

Average Cost of the Different Types of Septic Systems

The cost of the different types of septic systems varies depending on the size and complexity of the system. The table below shows the different types of septic systems and their corresponding average costs.

Type of Septic SystemAverage Cost
Conventional Septic Tank$2,000 to $5,000
Aerobic/Aerated Wastewater Treatment System$10,000 – $20,000
Septic Tank with Sand Filter$5,000 to $9,000

Factors That Can Affect the Cost of Septic Tank Installation

The cost of septic tank installation can vary widely depending on various factors. It’s important to consider all these factors when planning for your septic tank installation to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Let’s talk about these factors.

1. Septic Tank Size

1. Septic Tank Size
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One of the main factors influencing the cost is the tank’s size. The size will often depend on how big your home and household are.

The more water the household uses, the bigger the tank needs to be. Keep in mind that all of the wastewater from your home, including that from washing machines, will go into the septic tank.

2. Type of Tank Material

2. Type of Tank Material
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Septic tanks are made from a variety of materials and each type of material has a different quality rating. Septic tanks with higher quality such as fiberglass and concrete will be more expensive compared to less durable options like plastic septic tanks.

3. Labor Costs

3. Labor Costs
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Installing a septic tank is a complicated job that needs the assistance of experts in this field. With this, expect to pay quite a bit for labor also. The type and location of the septic tank you choose will also affect labor costs.

Depending on the complexity of installation, the time required to get the job done could take up to 4-5 days. So, expect that labor costs will take a significant piece of the project’s budget.

4. Septic System Type

4. Septic System Type
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Septic systems vary based on the way they handle the waste. Some of the common septic systems are the following:

  • A conventional system that filters treated sewage through a gravel drainfield.
  • A chamber system where the soil is directly in contact with a number of chambers on the drainfield.
  • An aerobic system that injects oxygen into the septic tank to hasten the breakdown process.

Different septic systems will require different materials, frameworks, and installation processes. As a result, the septic system you choose will also affect the overall cost. For instance, aerobic systems are more expensive than other septic systems.

5. Above or Below Ground Installation

5. Above or Below Ground Installation
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Septic tanks can be installed above or below the ground. Above-ground tanks are less expensive to buy and install since they don’t need a large pit to be dug.

On the other hand, below-ground tanks will require some excavation in order to install them. With this, expect that below-ground tanks will cost more compared to above-ground tanks.

How a Septic Tank Works

How a Septic Tank Works
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A septic tank is made up of several parts working together to collect and treat wastewater from homes and businesses. Here’s an overview of how a septic works and understanding this helps you ensure that your septic system is functioning properly.

  1. The primary drainage pipe carries water from your kitchen, bathroom, and other rooms to your septic tank.
  2. The septic tank begins the process of storing the wastewater underground. It must hold this for a sufficient amount of time for the solids to sink to the bottom and the oil and grease to float to the top.
  3. The liquid wastewater or the effluent will then be able to depart the tank and enter the drain field after this process.
  4. The wastewater exits through the pipes onto porous surfaces. They enable sewage to pass through the soil and filter.
  5. When wastewater percolates through the soil, it is absorbed, treated, and distributed before being discharged to groundwater.
  6. Lastly, the wastewater naturally removes dangerous coliform bacteria, viruses, and nutrients as it percolates into the soil.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Septic Tank Installer

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Septic Tank Installer
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Installing a septic tank requires specialized skills. Thus, this is not a DIY home project. Hiring the services of a qualified septic tank installer can ensure that your tank operates properly for a long time and lower the likelihood of service interruptions.

There are a number of reasons why you should opt for professionals to install your septic tank. These experts possess the following:

  • Technical proficiency
  • Hands-on training
  • Years of experience
  • Knowledge of local regulations
  • Licenses and certifications

Moreover, septic system installers can do the task more quickly and effectively compared to a DIY homeowner. They have trained personnel with the appropriate tools and equipment, an advantage that is rarely accessible to individual property owners.

Getting a Permit When Installing a Septic Tank in Brisbane

Getting a Permit When Installing a Septic Tank in Brisbane
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In order to install and operate your septic system in Brisbane, you are required to have council approval by obtaining a septic tank permit. You can get help with the wastewater approval process from your septic tank installer as they’re already familiar with this.

Generally, you must hire a qualified professional with an onsite wastewater permit to install your septic tank. To ensure that your septic system plan conforms with all necessary standards and regulations, you must also present it to the local council.

Depending on the kind of wastewater being treated, different standards will apply. It will also take into account how wastewater is treated, the purpose of the recycled water, and your location.

It’s important to check with your local council to find out what are the specific requirements for installing a septic tank. Take note that each state in Australia has different septic system regulations.

For further information about on-site sewage facility installation requirements in Brisbane, try to check this link – brisbane.qld.gov.au.

Different Types of Septic Tank Materials

Septic tanks are used to store wastewater and keep it from entering the environment. However, you have a lot to choose from as there are different types of septic tanks available in the market.

Here, we will discuss the different types of septic tanks, their uses, and their pros and cons. Based on the materials used in their construction, septic tanks can be classified into the following types.

1. Concrete Septic Tank

1. Concrete Septic Tank
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Septic tanks made of concrete are large and typically pre-cast for easy installation. These precast concrete tanks are sturdy enough to withstand the buoyant pressures when buried on the ground and they gradually get stronger over time as well.

Based on their structure, concrete septic tanks can be divided into two categories: single structure tanks and all-in-one systems. Single structure tanks have separate chambers for aeration, clarifier, trash tank, etc., and these are pre-cast separately.

On the other hand, the all-in-one system has all of these chambers in a single, sizable tank. The table below shows some of the benefits and drawbacks of precast concrete septic tanks.

Pros

  • Heavy enough and won’t float if the water table is close to the tank’s level.
  • Can last very long, perhaps decades.
  • Sturdy and won’t easily get damaged.
  • Rustproof

Cons

  • More expensive compared to other tank materials.
  • May develop cracks over time if the concrete mix used is of poor quality.
  • Difficult to repair when damaged.
  • Complex installation process since pre-casted concrete septic tanks are typically large.

2. Plastic Septic Tanks

2. Plastic Septic Tanks
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Plastic septic tanks are also known as poly septic tanks since they are made of polyethylene material. Because of their light weight and resistance to rust, they are a good alternative to concrete and steel septic tanks.

Plastic septic tanks are easier to install and handle because of their lesser weight. The specific gravity of plastic septic tanks is approximately 0.97, which is lower than the specific gravity of water. When the water table is close by, this causes the tank to float.

Therefore, one should check the area’s water table before installing a plastic septic tank. It’s also recommended to secure the tank with anchors to prevent it from floating or shifting.

Pros

  • Cheaper than other types of septic tanks.
  • Not prone to cracking.
  • Easy installation.
  • Good chemical resistance.
  • Rustproof

Cons

  • May float when the water table is near the tank bottom.
  • Vulnerable to damage under critical conditions.
  • When heavy objects are placed over it, it could deflect.

3. Steel Septic Tanks

3. Steel Septic Tanks
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These days, steel septic tanks are less common due to their high cost and short lifespan. Compared to other septic tank materials, steel septic tanks deteriorate easily and quickly.

If the steel septic tank’s top portion becomes rusted, it is unable to support any weights placed on top of it and could collapse at any time. Nowadays, septic tanks of this type are not recommended anymore.

Pros

  • Heavy in weight and thus, won’t float when the water table gets closer to the tank.
  • Good resistance against buoyant forces.

Cons

  • Its lifespan is shorter than other septic tank materials because it corrodes easily.
  • High cost
  • Low durability
  • Once it corrodes, it’s hard to remove it from the ground.

4. Fiberglass Septic Tank

4. Fiberglass Septic Tank
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Fiber reinforced plastics (FRP) are used to create fiberglass septic tanks. They are comparable to plastic septic tanks, but the glass fiber reinforcing makes them more durable than plastic tanks. They are also lightweight and easy to install.

Because of the tank’s lightweight, it could float or shift. However, this can be avoided by anchoring the tank to the ground.

Pros

  • Cheaper compared to septic tanks made of steel and concrete.
  • Highly durable
  • Stronger compared to plastic septic tanks.
  • Rustproof
  • Watertight

Cons

  • Will float or shift when the water table is close by.

Different Types of Septic Systems

There are different types of septic systems available to meet the needs of different properties, from traditional gravity systems to aerobic treatment units. Here, we’ll explore the different types of septic systems and their associated benefits and drawbacks.

1. Conventional Septic System

1. Conventional Septic System
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A single-family home or small business normally has a conventional septic system installed. In a conventional decentralized wastewater treatment system, you have a septic tank and subsurface wastewater infiltration system known as a drainfield.

The typical drainfield design is made up of gravel/stone. From the septic tank, the effluent goes to a shallow stone or gravel trench through pipes. A geofabric material is then laid on top of the trench, preventing contaminants from getting into the clean stone.

After filtering through the stone, the wastewater then enters the soil below the gravel/stone trench where it is further treated. Because of their comparatively large footprint, gravel/stone systems might not be appropriate for all residential sites.

Pros

  • Less expensive than other septic systems.
  • Easy to repair.
  • Requires less maintenance.

Cons

  • Difficult to install in areas with small lots.
  • May not deliver as much wastewater treatment compared to other options.
  • Difficult to clean.

2. Aerobic Treatment Unit

2. Aerobic Treatment Unit
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Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) use a smaller-scale version of the same technology and process as a municipal sewage plant. It has a treatment tank that receives oxygen injections from an aerobic system.

With the additional oxygen, the system’s natural bacterial activity increases which further treats the nutrients in the effluent. To further lower the pathogen levels, some aerobic systems contain pretreatment and final treatment tanks that include disinfection.

This can be installed in areas with smaller lots, poor soil conditions, and locations with excessively high water tables. It’s also ideal for houses that are vulnerable to nutrient pollution from wastewater effluent due to a nearby surface water body.

Pros

  • Good for areas with high water tables.
  • Can be installed in areas with small lot.
  • Provides better wastewater treatment compared to traditional septic systems.

Cons

  • More expensive to install.
  • Maintenance is a must.

3. Recirculating Sand Filter System

3. Recirculating Sand Filter System (2)
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Sand filter systems can be installed above or below ground. Effluent from septic tanks passes via a pump chamber and then, it will be pumped into the sand filter. The sand filter is usually a concrete box or a PVC lining that is filled with sand material.

Effluent is pumped through the pipes at the top of the filter at low pressure. As the effluent leaves the pipelines and passes through the sand, it is then treated. After that, the treated wastewater is released into the drainfield.

Sand filters offer a high level of nutrient treatment, making them preferable for locations with high water tables or those close to water bodies. They do cost more than a conventional septic system, though.

Pros

  • Provide a high level of wastewater treatment.
  • Good for areas with high water tables.

Cons

  • More expensive compared to a conventional septic system.
  • Frequent maintenance is required.

4. Chamber Septic System

4. Chamber Septic System
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A chamber septic system is a type of onsite wastewater treatment system that uses a series of interconnected chambers to treat and dispose of wastewater. This type of system is often used in areas with limited access to public sewer systems.

It is designed to be easy to install, maintain and repair, making it an ideal solution for many residential and commercial applications. The chambers are typically made from durable materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or fiberglass. 

Chamber septic systems can be used in a variety of settings, including single-family homes, multi-family dwellings, schools, and businesses. A chamber septic system is also an example of a gravelless system, contrary to the conventional septic system.

In this system, you have a series of connected chambers. Soil covers the space around and above the chambers. The wastewater is piped into the chambers where it comes into contact with the soil. The wastewater is then treated by microbes in or near the soil.

Pros

  • Good for areas with high water tables.
  • Easy installation and repair.

Cons

  • Requires more maintenance due to the added chambers.

Advantages of Installing a Septic Tank 

Septic tank installation offers a variety of benefits. It’s a cost-effective solution for sewage treatment, it’s environmentally friendly, and it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. Learn more about these advantages.

1. Environment-Friendly

1. Environment-Friendly
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Septic tanks remove waste via the soil’s natural filtering system. The septic tank filters wastewater before it enters the leachfield or drainfield. When wastewater goes out from the tank, bacteria are already filtered by the soil, making the water suitable for reuse.

With this, local water tables can be naturally replenished with the use of septic tanks. Wildlife in the area benefits from the local water tables, and septic tanks support this cycle by recycling wastewater.

On the other contrary, sewer lines can occasionally leak raw sewage which contaminates the groundwater. In a septic system, there’s less risk of leaking as it doesn’t pass through a sewer system.

2. Long-Lasting

2. Long-Lasting
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If properly maintained and frequently pumped, a septic tank can last for many years. Septic tanks usually endure between 20 and 40 years. Its lifespan can be much longer with proper care and maintenance.

You can also expect it to last throughout the duration of your stay in your home, depending on your usage. However, it’s also important to have the right professional to regularly maintain the tank and avoid clogs and other problems.

3. Encourages Water Efficiency

3. Encourages Water Efficiency
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Although septic tanks are designed to hold liquid waste, the daily processing of a large amount of liquid might start to wear on the system. While wasting water is common among households, having a septic tank makes homeowners more aware of this issue.

Owning a septic tank encourages homeowners to take charge of their water waste and hopefully reduce it. In other words, it changes the attitude of homeowners when it comes to water waste, resulting in a positive impact on the environment.

4. Cost-Effective

4. Cost-Effective
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Installing a septic tank is an affordable way of disposing of liquid waste. Because installing sewage pipes on a residential property can be very expensive, many homeowners choose to build septic tanks instead, which cost less.

The cost of installation is relatively affordable. Take note also that septic tanks are made to last for several decades. Thus, you can be sure that you won’t need to pay for a replacement any time soon.

5. Low-Maintenance

5. Low-Maintenance
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While septic tanks are made to last for longer periods, they also require less maintenance to function effectively. The typical maintenance might involve emptying the tank yearly and this is done by a professional.

Septic tanks will also need to be cleaned periodically. But again, you can hire a professional to handle such a job.

You can also coordinate with your supplier for a septic tank maintenance schedule. By doing this, you can be confident that your tank will keep working perfectly for many years to come.

Top Septic Tank Installation Services in Brisbane

Here, we have compiled a list of the top septic tank installation services in Brisbane. Contact each of them and see which one meets your septic tank installation requirements.

1. Maxfield’s Wastewater

1. Maxfield's Wastewater

Maxfield’s Wastewater provides the best septic and wastewater solutions. They have been operating in South East Queensland for 20 years already. They can help with everything septic and wastewater, from new installation to upgrades and maintenance.

WEBSITE:https://www.maxfieldswastewater.com.au/
ADDRESS:209 Hauton Rd, Burpengary QLD 4505, Australia
CONTACT INFO:+61 427 374 392, [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS:Monday – Sunday: 7AM-7PM

2. Queensland Water Solutions

2. Queensland Water Solutions

Queensland Water Solutions offers a range of residential, commercial, and industrial water treatment systems. Part of the services they provide is the installation and maintenance of septic systems, which are health and environment-friendly solutions.

WEBSITE:https://qldwatersolutions.com.au/
ADDRESS:27 Staple St, Seventeen Mile Rocks QLD 4073, Australia
CONTACT INFO:+61 7 5679 0695, [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS:Monday – Saturday: 8AM-6PM

3. Taylex Australia

3. Taylex Australia

Taylex has been in the home sewage treatment systems industry for over 50 years. They manufacture traditional-style septic tanks and their multi-chambered septic system, which is a combination of a modern septic, pump station, and sand filter tank.

WEBSITE:https://taylex.com.au/
ADDRESS:56 Prairie Rd, Ormeau QLD 4208, Australia
CONTACT INFO:+61 7 3441 5200
OPERATING HOURS:Monday – Thursday: 7AM-5PM, Friday: 7AM-4PM

4. EverGREEN Wastewater

4. EverGREEN Wastewater

everGREEN Wastewater is a family-operated business with more than 25 years of experience in the industry. Their primary services include upgrading septic tanks and installing new home sewage treatment plants (HSTPs).

WEBSITE:https://evergreenwastewater.com.au/
ADDRESS:Ziviani Rd., Wamuran, QLD, Australia
CONTACT INFO:+61 7 5498 6309, [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS:Open 24 Hours

5. Philipsen Construction

5. Philipsen Construction

Philipsen Construction is a family-operated company serving Ipswich, Brisbane, and surrounding areas. They offer various plumbing, drainage, and gas services for domestic, commercial, and industrial needs. These include septic tank installation.

WEBSITE:https://www.philipsenconstruction.com.au/
ADDRESS:141 Stevens Rd, Purga QLD 4306, Australia
CONTACT INFO:+61 401 372 786, [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS:Monday – Friday: 7AM-4PM, Saturday: 7AM-12PM

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This article provides an overview of the various types of septic tanks and the costs associated with them. By understanding the basics of septic tank costs, you can make an informed decision regarding your home or business’s wastewater disposal needs.

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