If your property cannot connect to a sewer network, installing a septic system becomes crucial in managing and treating onsite wastewater. While residential properties and small offices typically use conventional septic systems, businesses exceeding this limit fall into the category of commercial ones.
Here’s a guide to help you better understand commercial septic systems for your business.
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Types of Commercial Septic Systems
The classification of a commercial septic system depends on the expected hydraulic load per day. This represents the volume of wastewater entering the system each day, particularly during peak times. Two main categories exist:
Small Commercial Septic System
The proper waste removal is crucial for a healthy, happy home. That’s why determining the appropriate septic tank capacity is so important. For a small home with two or fewer rooms, a 700 to 900 gallon tank is usually sufficient.
However, every situation is unique, so you should call a professional to determine the perfect capacity for your specific needs. That will ensure your home is running smoothly and efficiently.
Large Commercial Septic System
A septic system is considered to be large capacity if it serves more than 20 people per day and only receives sanitary waste from multiple homes or commercial establishments.
Large commercial septic systems are used in places like:
- Shopping malls
- Commercial buildings
- Apartment buildings
- Schools
- Trailer parks
- Casinos
- Train and bus stations
- Restaurants
- State parks and campgrounds
- Hotels
- Casinos
Calculating Hydraulic Load per Day
Determining your business’s hydraulic load per day is a crucial step in the septic system installation process. The calculation must include the peak demand, reflecting the maximum daily load your system should handle. The method varies based on the type of business.
For instance:
- Example Scenario: If you own a restaurant, your system should accommodate a hydraulic load of 300 people per day, taking into account 100 visitors on weekdays and 300 on weekends.
- Calculation for Different Businesses: The hydraulic load per day differs for businesses dealing with various activities. For example, a hotel with showers, baths, kitchens, and increased organic matter may have a different calculation than an office building.
Additional Considerations
Businesses that handle organic matter, such as food waste, need to consider the capacity of their septic systems. This is important for handling high and irregular organic loads and calculating the daily hydraulic load. Ensure that the septic system can effectively manage the waste.
These considerations apply to a variety of businesses, including:
- Schools and childcare centers;
- Hotels, motels, and guesthouses;
- Restaurants, cafes, and wineries;
- Hospitals and nursing homes;
- Sports centers, community halls, and parks.
Before installing a septic system for your business, assessing your daily hydraulic load, peak demands, and potential organic loadings is vital. If needed, following these guidelines and seeking assistance will help ensure that your commercial septic system works correctly and complies with regulations.