Sewer systems and septic tanks perform the same work. They lead solid and liquid waste away from properties to release them into the environment. If you’re building a new home or business, you may wonder what system will work best for you. Understanding how these options differ can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a helpful guide to these systems and how they function.

Sewer Systems

Sewer systems use a network of underground piping to transport waste from properties to a water treatment facility. Once it arrives, wastewater is sanitized until it can be safely re-introduced to the environment. Like with water and electricity, people pay a fee every month to use the public sewage system.

Many homeowners use sewers because they extend over most metropolitan areas. In this case, upkeep and repair work is the responsibility of the government. Property owners only need to fix clogs or piping inside their home.

Septic Tanks

Septic tanks are private and service only one property. Instead of a communal water treatment facility, wastewater is held in a tank underground near the building. Once the water is filtered to remove toxins, it’s released into an area known as the drain field.

Septic tanks don’t use chemicals or electricity, making them much more environmentally friendly than public sewage systems. The upfront costs of installation and maintenance are billed to the property owner, but there are no monthly usage fees. They fill up with solid waste over time, however, so property owners must schedule pumping every three years to keep them operational.

With over three decades of experience providing residential and commercial septic service, Holmen Pumping Service in West Salem and Bangor, WI, is dedicated to fast, effective, and friendly work. In addition to maintenance, pumping, and installation of septic tanks, they also handle sewer, drain, and grease trap cleaning to ensure your property’s plumbing is always operating safely. Learn more about pumping on their website, or call (608) 526-3865 to schedule an inspection.