While the basic concepts of residential and commercial septic pumping are the same, commercial systems are more complex. Knowing the differences can help you understand how these systems work in general.
Size and Volume
The most apparent difference is that commercial septic systems are much larger than residential because they typically handle more waste. A restaurant or factory is putting out more waste than a single-family home. Consequently, commercial systems generally have bigger tanks, more compartments within the tanks and more tanks total.
Therefore, commercial systems require more pumps and electricity. Some have filtration systems to break down harmful chemicals and detergents before they reach the tanks themselves.
What’s in the Waste
Residential septic systems generally handle only human waste. Restaurants in particular put a lot of grease into their septic systems. Hospitals send chemicals into their pipes. Commercial systems handle industrial detritus in general. So, all these systems need more complex treatments to break down waste.
Maintenance
Because of their greater amounts and varieties of wastes, commercial systems need more pumping. While you can get away with having a residential system pumped every three to five years, a commercial system needs to be pumped at annually and sometimes even more frequently.
Residential systems usually last longer than commercial ones. This is because less wastewater and fewer chemicals put less stress on systems. However, well-designed commercial systems can last many years when properly maintained. While residential systems for single-family homes are very similar, commercial systems typically require more diverse designs because of the variety of businesses that use them.
Rules and Regulations
Residential systems tend to be in locations where county rules pertaining to them are generally relaxed. By contrast, commercial systems are usually in cities where their owners have to contend with strict, complicated rules and regulations from both state and local governments.
It’s almost always best to turn to a professional wastewater company for inspection, maintenance, repairs and installation of commercial systems. They have the experience and equipment that you need. Obtaining a permit in the first place can be difficult, and many business owners turn to consultants to start the process the right way.
To conclude, if you are new to septic pumping in a commercial environment, never assume that any aspect of a system or its regulation will be the same as with the less complicated world of residential septic tanks. While commercial systems can be costly because of all that they need to do, consider them an essential, long-term investment in your enterprise. Doing some research first will help you avoid unwanted surprises. When you need commercial septic services in College Station, TX, contact Mustang Septic.