Maya Ellison
Septic tanks are a crucial component of any residential property, and in Maine, there are several regulations and alternatives to consider. While incinerating toilets and composting toilets are options, they may not be permitted for full-time occupied homes. The state of Maine has specific requirements for septic systems, and with the cost being a significant factor, it is important to explore various options, including advanced wastewater treatment systems and drainfield systems. Additionally, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection provides guidelines for holding tanks used for non-hazardous wastewater, emphasizing compatibility, sizing, and the need for alarm systems to indicate when the tank is full. Understanding these regulations and options is essential for homeowners in Maine who are looking to install or maintain septic systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legality of Plastic Septic Tanks | Not mentioned |
| Alternative Toilets | Allowed without running water or with a "primitive" grey water system |
| Primitive Water Supply | Cannot be mechanically pressurised |
| Grey Water System | Requires a 2" pipe and no septic tank |
| Incinerating Toilets | Not allowed for full-time occupied homes |
| Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems | Can be applied after septic tanks to clean effluent before discharging into a small proprietary drain field |
| Drainfield Systems | Can be installed above impervious surfaces but not advisable |
| Wastewater Solutions | Available for most scenarios, with cost and maintenance as the main factors |
| Composting Toilets | A simpler and less expensive option |
| Holding Tanks | Available in various shapes, sizes, and materials; commonly range from 1,000 to 2,000 gallons |
| Holding Tank Considerations | Compatibility with wastewater materials, size, and pumping schedule |
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What You'll Learn
Septic tank alternatives in Maine
Septic tank installation in Maine can cost anywhere from $13,000 to $25,000, depending on the complexity and size of the system. If you're looking for alternatives to a septic tank system, there are a few options to consider:
Alternative Toilets
"Alternative Toilets" are allowed in Maine when there is no running water or when a "primitive" greywater system is installed. A "primitive" water supply cannot be mechanically pressurised and must be hand-carried or hand-pumped. This could involve putting a cistern uphill or on a stand to gravity-feed water to taps and showers. With this type of system, you can obtain a design/permit for a greywater system (2" pipe only, no septic tank) and an alternative toilet.
Incinerating Toilets
Incinerating toilets, such as propane-fuelled models, can be a more expensive upfront cost (around $5,000) but may save money in the long run by eliminating the need for a septic tank. However, they are not permitted for full-time occupied homes in Maine if you have pressurised water.
Composting Toilets
Composting toilets are another alternative to septic tanks that are simpler and less expensive. However, it is unclear whether they are bound by the same laws regarding septic systems.
Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems
For existing properties, especially in shoreline zones, advanced wastewater treatment systems can be applied after the septic tank to clean the effluent before discharging it into a small proprietary drain field. These systems can be costly and may not be worth the investment unless required.
Temporary Solutions
If you're looking for a temporary solution before installing a septic tank, you can consider a separate bath house with a toilet seat over a bucket and a shower that drains to a grey water field.
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Wastewater treatment systems
One option is to install a septic tank system, which is a common choice for residential properties. Septic tanks collect and treat wastewater through a process of separation and biological breakdown, resulting in clarified effluent that can be discharged into a drain field. In Maine, it is important to work with a contractor when installing septic tanks to ensure compliance with local regulations.
For existing properties, especially those in shoreline zones, advanced wastewater treatment systems can be applied after the septic tank to further clean the effluent before discharging it into a small proprietary drain field. These systems can be costly and may not be necessary for all properties, but they provide an additional level of treatment to protect the environment and comply with local regulations.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) provides guidelines for the proper management of wastewater, especially in the case of non-hazardous, industrial wastewater. This type of wastewater includes wash or process water contaminated with minor amounts of fuels, oils, or antifreeze, as well as diluted cleaning solvents and solutions. By state law, it is illegal to discharge this type of wastewater directly into septic systems or surface waters. Instead, the DEP recommends the use of holding tanks to capture and contain this wastewater for proper disposal.
Holding tanks are available in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and the DEP advises selecting a tank that is compatible with the specific type of wastewater it will hold. For example, a cement holding tank is suitable for truck garages, while a fiberglass tank may not be compatible with wastewater containing acetone. The size of the holding tank is also important, as smaller tanks require more frequent pumping, and oversized tanks can lead to stagnant wastewater and odour issues.
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Drainfield systems
Drainfield failure can occur due to ageing, excessive rainfall, cracked pipes, or overloading, and may result in backed-up drains, strong smells, standing water, or discoloured patches of grass above the drainfield area. To prevent this, regular maintenance and a preventative maintenance plan are essential.
One way to rehabilitate a failing drainfield is through additive treatment, which involves adding organic treatments and biological products to resolve clogging, neutralise smells, and address chemical imbalances. These treatments help anaerobic and aerobic bacteria to thrive, bringing the drainfield back to life.
Another solution for drainfield failure is Terralift, which rejuvenates the existing drainfield without the need for a costly and messy replacement. This method comes with a two-year warranty if a copy of the original septic design is provided.
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Septic tank materials
Septic tanks in Maine are used to capture wastewater from floor drains in vehicle and engine maintenance areas, such as automotive and auto body repair shops. They are also used in residential properties, especially in off-grid locations.
Septic tanks are available in a variety of materials, including plastic, cement, and fiberglass. The choice of material depends on the type of wastewater being stored. For example, a cement septic tank is suitable for most truck garages, but not for facilities with acidic wastewater or wastewater containing gasoline or solvents. Similarly, a fiberglass tank is generally incompatible with wastewater containing acetone, as found in autobody shops.
Plastic septic tanks are a common choice for residential properties due to their durability and affordability. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and can be installed with minimal site preparation. Plastic tanks are also resistant to corrosion and can withstand extreme temperatures, making them suitable for Maine's cold winters.
When choosing a septic tank, it is essential to consider the compatibility of the tank material with the type of wastewater it will hold. Holding tank manufacturers and vendors can provide specific information on which tank or lining is appropriate for different types of wastewater. Additionally, sizing the tank appropriately is crucial. Smaller tanks require more frequent pumping, while oversized tanks can lead to odor issues due to stagnant wastewater.
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Septic tank size
The size of a septic tank is a crucial consideration, as choosing the wrong size can lead to overflowing toilets, contaminated groundwater, and expensive repairs. The right size for your property will help save money in the short and long term.
The type of septic system you choose will also influence the required tank size. For example, systems designed for challenging soil conditions may require larger tanks or additional components. The most common type of septic system is the conventional, gravity-fed anaerobic septic system. However, there are seven common types of septic systems in use today, and the tank size needed may vary depending on the specific system.
The size of the septic tank you need depends on several factors, including the number of rooms in your home, the number of people living there, how much water you use, and the weather in your area. The average septic tank capacity is 1,250 gallons, although many tanks hold 1,750 gallons or more. For a small loft with one or two people, 750 gallons is considered adequate, while homes with one or two bedrooms require 1,000 gallons or more. The average range is 1,000 gallons to 1,500 gallons, depending on the homeowners' demands and needs.
The shape of the tank also impacts its overall dimensions, with round tanks taking up less space than square or rectangular tanks. The layout of your property and its slope will determine the best shape and size for your septic tank.
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