What is the price of a septic tank?
Thinking about a septic tank for your property, but not sure about the cost? You aren't alone.
Deciding on the correct septic tank to suit your needs can be difficult, as there is a range of factors to consider (most of which affect the price!). That is why we have put together a price information guide to help those in budgeting for their new or upgraded septic tank.
If you would like any further information, give Express Wastewater a call at 1300 770 594 and we would be happy to assist further.
Septic Tank Pricing
It is worth stating from the start that, when it comes to septic tanks, one size does not fit all! No one particular system will fill all your needs, so that is why it is super important to take a look at all the relevant features and speak to an expert.
At Express Wastewater, we pride ourselves on matching the right system with the right person that can save up to and over $15,000.
To help choose the best system for your needs, it is a great option to book a design meeting with an industry professional, so a soil test can be taken. This is used to work out what is the best system for you and your property, including poly or concrete trenches or a treatment plant.
Below is a sample of some of the main styles of systems and why to choose one over the other.
Old Style Septic Tanks & Trenches
Septic tanks and trenches have been around longer than any other treatment option in Australia, with the effluent being broken down in the septic tank to a liquid and then soaking into the ground through a series of trenches.
This can be done by gravity or pumped up to the trenches and is generally the cheapest and easiest long term option to dispose of effluent (especially in a gravity-based system!).
Why Choose an Old Style Tank & Trench?
π Lower Running Costs
π Simplicity & Reliability
π Environmentally Friendly (in the right conditions)
Limitations of an Old Style Tank & Trench
π Dependent on Permeable Soil Conditions
π Space Requirement for Absorption Trenches
π Regulatory Distance from Trenches to Waterways
π Depth of Soil Required
Breakdown Of Running Costs
π² Pump Out Of Septic Tank
Tanks must be pumped out every 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and size of the septic tank. Cost of $300 - $800 per service. This averages at approx $60 to $267 per year.
π² Power To Run Pump (pumped only)
Cost of $30 - $40 per year (estimate depending on usage).
π² Pump Replacement
Pumps last for around 5 years. Pumps are estimated to cost around $600and installation costs will depend on the type and size of pump used (pumped only). Cost is estimated at $120 per year.
Approximate Cost Range for Old Style Tank & Trenches
Aerated Wastewater Treatment Plant (AWTP)
The aerated wastewater treatment plant, otherwise known as a Biocycle system or a HSTP, uses an air blower to promote the growth of aerated bacteria that cleans the water within the system. It is then disinfected and will, in time, get to a point where it can be safely irrigated.
This method of treating effluent is probably the most versatile option and is generally fairly cost effective when it comes to installation costs.
Price of an AWTP
For a standard residential AWTP installation, you can expect an approximate cost range of $11,000 to $16,000+.
Why Choose an AWTP?
π Superior Treatment (compared to traditional septic tanks)
π Less Land Required
π Versability in Soil Conditions
π Potential to Reuse Treated Water
π Reduced Odour (compared to anaerobic septic tanks)
Limitations of an AWTP
π Higher Initial Cost
π Higher Running Costs
π Legal Requirements for Regular Servicing
π Sensitive to Harsh Household Chemicals
π More Complex System
Breakdown Of Running Costs
π² Mandatory Servicing
AWTPs in Queensland typically require servicing every 3 months (four times per year). The annual cost for a service is $340 - $550 per year (Express Wastewater offer your first year free!).
π² Septic Tank Pump Out
Pump out is required every 5 - 10 years because of the larger quantity of water to be pumped out. This, therefore, means a service agent is required onsite and water fill is also needed - approximately $900. This averages at approx $90 to $180 per year.
π² Electricity Consumption
To power the air blower and pump(s) 365 days a year, electricity costs can be approximately $300 per year.
π² Replacement Pump & Aerator
Water pumps and air pumps will last on average 5 years each. Replacement and installation is generally around $600 but will depend on the type and size of the pump used. This averages at $120 per year for each pump, or $240 per year to replace both at the same time.
Approximate Cost Range for AWTP
Sand Filter Septic Systems
The sand filter wastewater system comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, suiting a range of homes and workplaces. The basic principle is using bacteria living in the sand to passively clean the water.
Depending on the brand of system, the water will either filter through the sand and then soak into the ground like trenches or filter through the sand and then collect into a second tank which can then be irrigated.
Price of a Sand Filter Septic System
For a standard residential sand filter septic system (including the primary septic tank and the sand filter with final disposal), you can expect an approximate cost range of $18,000 to $30,000+.
Why Choose a Sand Filter Septic Tank?
π High Quality Treated Effluent
π Versitility for Difficult Sites & Soil
π Smaller Disposal Area (than conventional septic system)
π Reliable Performance
Limitations of a Sand Filter Septic Tank
πHigher Initial Cost
πRequires Pumping
πRegular Inspections & Occasional Maintenance
πSpace Required (smalled than traditional trenches, but san filter still needs space)
πSensitive to Harsh Chemicals
Breakdown Of Running Costs
π² Pump Out of Septic Tank
The primary septic tank will need regular pump-outs, typically every 3 to 5 years, depending on usage. The cost for a pump-out generally ranges from $300 - $800 per service. Averaged it is about $60 to $267 per year.
π² Power to Run Pump (pumped only)
Cost is around$30 - $40 per year (estimate only as depends on usage).
π² Pump Replacement
The dosing pump will last on average 5 years to 10 years. Pump replacement and installation is estimated around $600 - $1000. Averaged at $60 - $200 per year.
Servicing if required is generally between $170 and $250 per year.
Approximate Cost Range for Sand Filter Septic System
If you would like some further help in relation to septic tanks, give Express Wastewater a call at 1300 770 594 and we would be happy to assist in every way we can.
Resources:
The Best Brisbane - Septic Tank Cost in Brisbane
Biocycle QLD - Wastewater Treatment System Pricing: Understanding Costs for Septic Tanks, Service, and Maintenance
Point - Breaking down expenses: How much does a septic system cost?