When homes are not connected to the sewer line, which is common in rural or remote areas where extending sewer infrastructure is impractical or too expensive, septic tanks come in handy. These systems provide an effective alternative for wastewater treatment, and are even referred to as an Individual Wastewater System (IWS).
Homes that are off the grid, or in newly developed areas where sewer connections haven't yet been established, also rely on septic tanks. This allows homeowners to manage wastewater independently while ensuring environmental protection and sanitation.
It uses a combination of nature and proven technology to treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry.
Here are the components of a septic system:
The septic tank: A watertight container buried underground. It holds wastewater long enough to allow solids to settle down to the bottom forming sludge, while the oil and grease float to the top as scum. This is due to its size and shape.
Drainfield (Leach Field): A shallow, covered excavation made in unsaturated soil. The pretreated wastewater is discharged through piping onto porous surfaces that allow the wastewater to filter through the soil. The soil accepts, treats, and disperses the wastewater as it percolates through the soil.
Soil: Microorganisms in the soil provide final treatment by removing harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients.
Septic tanks are typically used in Hawaii in the following scenarios:
Rural Areas: In areas where homes are spread out and connecting to a centralized sewer system is impractical or too costly.
Remote Locations: On islands or parts of islands where infrastructure development is limited.
Environmental Considerations: In areas where septic systems are preferred to prevent overloading existing sewage treatment plants or to protect local water bodies from pollution.
Considerations for Septic Tanks in Hawaii
Regulations: Hawaii's Department of Health has specific regulations for the design, installation, and maintenance of septic systems to ensure they do not contaminate groundwater or coastal waters.
Soil Conditions: The type and condition of the soil can affect the functionality of a septic system. Hawaii's diverse soil types, including volcanic soils, can influence septic system design.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent system failures, which can result in environmental contamination and costly repairs. This includes pumping the tank every 3-5 years.
Additionally, homeowners can’t install septic systems by themselves. A licensed engineer is required to complete the project.
While challenging, and no doubt a timely process, septic systems are a great alternative for those who are disconnected from the sewer lines in Hawaiʻi.
Commentaires