OFF GRID septic using totes

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  • Опубликовано: 23 ноя 2024
  • This is a septic system concept that is currently in use at an off grid cabin.
    A more detailed version: • Cheap, easy DIY TOTE s...
    I was able to build the entire system for less than $100. I used recycled and re purposed materials. The main components are the two reused totes, the small leach field and the concrete reinforcement. This design follows the basic principals of modern septic design; a settling tank that flows into a gray water tank that flows out to a leach field. The cabin is not a full time residence, but does get used a few times a month. It services a toilet, shower and sink. Thanks for watching!
    (12-14-20) It still functions as well as day 1. This system has lasted very well and the initial cost of $100 broken down over the almost 4 years of use equates to about $25 a year, well worth it.
    (4-7-20) Still going strong!
    (4-4-20) it is 3 years old and functioning just as good as day one.
    (2-15-20) The system is still working very well. We were out at the cabin for several days in a row, no problems at all.
    (3-20-22) Still going strong, no indication of the system slowing down or deteriorating.
    (4-23-22) Another few days out at the cabin, septic worked perfectly.
    (7-1-24) Functions as well as it did on day 1. the system is almost 8 years old.
    #offgrid #tinyhouse #diyseptic

Комментарии • 362

  • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
    @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад +61

    So by the numbers: I have less than $100 in pipe and concrete. I was able to get the totes for free. The tractors were borrowed. The drain rock was leftover from another job. It took me about 6 hours to do this project. Leech fields in this area dont last much more than 10 years. This system has been in a couple of years and is functioning just fine. If it fails after a few more years I believe I will still be money ahead. Let me know what you think: Thanks for watching!

    • @tomjcarty
      @tomjcarty 4 года назад

      I have bog with zero perlocation: will this work ?

    • @gamechanger1305
      @gamechanger1305 4 года назад +1

      UnitedStatesofBuild I was curious it be really cool to build a system coming off a travel trailer making the tank on the trailer you’re holding tank and somehow put together a leech line coming off of that thank you

    • @friendlytravelsp5516
      @friendlytravelsp5516 4 года назад +1

      Thank u Mr.I so needed this video.

    • @kennethwoodward4669
      @kennethwoodward4669 2 года назад

      I’m building the same out of totes kinda rocky ( sand stone ) clayish

    • @kennethwoodward4669
      @kennethwoodward4669 2 года назад

      Any suggestions would help it’s slope down hill away from the house I may even have to build up the drain field end

  • @jackclark5124
    @jackclark5124 4 года назад +16

    PVC toilet flanges glued and screwed to the tank work great for connecting the 4" fill and perforated drain pipes. Also back filling with larger rock helps with drainage and evaporation. We have done similar things with 55 gal blue plastic drums. They work great. Thanks for the video!

  • @stevelindsay3643
    @stevelindsay3643 5 лет назад +8

    I Did The Exact Same Thing In 2011 For A Log Cabin/Cottage I Built In The Bush Where My Sawmill, Woodworking, Fabricating/Welding Shops Are.
    It works flawlessly since installed. I live there now and it serves us all without any problems. It's easy to check with the lids that unscrew on the top of the tanks and it has not needed to be pumped yet, and not sure when it might need to be, but no time soon. Great Job Done Well.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад +1

      Bravo to you sir. I hope it keeps going strong! Mine has been great also! What do you do for power? Thanks!!

  • @freddypatterson8653
    @freddypatterson8653 4 года назад +10

    I had a backhoe company for many years so installed many systems and I must say your's is the best I've seen. Plus I had a one person apt and only used a 55 gal drum, after 30 years the system is working great,Never had it pumped either, the key is a great drain field, I did it but I own a backhoe, hehe.

  • @InvisibleCitizen
    @InvisibleCitizen 4 года назад +20

    Our cabin was build in 1952 and four fifty five gallon drums were buried and connected together as the septic tanks. They failed in 2007. That’s over five decades of use. Stainless drums may have lasted longer!

  • @ericcollins9342
    @ericcollins9342 5 лет назад +39

    I enjoyed the video. I've installed septic systems for 17 years and two tanks in series are the way to go. Breaking down solids is not the way to go, keep your solids. the tanks in series are a great way to keep sediments from migrating to your drainfield. I would have used a cover material for the drainfield to keep small particles out of the rock system but I understand the wet ground in which case a weep area would have been my preference, preferably to low ground if available. I would fill my tanks with water right after a pump out to prevent collapse even with the concrete surrounding the tank. fun to watch.

    • @Nakira2000
      @Nakira2000 3 года назад

      Any additional information you could give. Im building mine with the 2 tote system for an rv setup in Arizona

    • @brianmclane8922
      @brianmclane8922 3 года назад

      These tanks need to be full at all times?

    • @terileef3330
      @terileef3330 3 года назад

      Do you have a link for us to see what you have mentioned?

  • @abefroman3903
    @abefroman3903 3 года назад +5

    wow great video ,
    this also lets everyone know how bad some contractors are screwing us on costs thankyou

  • @rongray4118
    @rongray4118 4 года назад +7

    I had thought of the remnant carpet as well for several different projects...great job on wrapping the units before you set them in ground! Thank you for posting your video!

  • @mikanfarmer
    @mikanfarmer 4 года назад +23

    First time to see this, and it looks great. I've been putting in septic systems on development projects in Africa for the last 20+ years. For what it's worth to anyone, just remember that those ICU containers only hold 1,000 litres, (that's not much!) So if you're going to set up this type of septic for daily usage you would need to add more containers in the line. The problem is when the 'solids' fill up to the outflow and block or restrict it. I'd recommend a larger diameter through pipe to a second (or even third) container, allowing more space for 'solids' build up.
    When we build concrete/brick tanks by hand, we usually have one third for 'solids' and two thirds for liquids to settle. ( Sometimes 50/50).
    All systems need air (oxygen) for the decomposition process to occur, .......even a 3/4 inch vent pipe will do. We then outflow into a soak-away, ........usually a big hole with large rocks in it. Overflow waste spills onto the rocks and in the presence of air, micro organisms growing on the rocks help break down any pathogens still in the outflow.
    Lastly, we always divert the shower and kitchen grey water around the septic and directly into the soak-away. This is so that any chemicals or detergents used do not adversely affect the beneficial microbes doing the job of decomposing the waste.

    • @bryonhills6172
      @bryonhills6172 4 года назад +2

      My uncle had a patent on a septic system that pumped air into the the tank. The water coming out at the was very clear. If I remember correctly it was drinkable at that point.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +6

      woowee, Id hate to be the test guy for that. What ever happened to the design?

    • @bryonhills6172
      @bryonhills6172 4 года назад +1

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 it was before its time I guess. Nobody wanted it and the business went under. He installed tanks in Alaska and California.

    • @markman63
      @markman63 4 года назад +2

      So what happens when the tanks are full of poop?

    • @suecia8417
      @suecia8417 4 года назад

      Thanku great point

  • @scottshultz3826
    @scottshultz3826 3 года назад +6

    Drain rock is round rock. Anything but round rock allows for binding and in short time no liquid can make it's way through. Otherwise a good system. The local health depts make septic systems far more complicated then they need to be, they are in fact very simple

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  3 года назад +1

      Good info, thanks. I heard that pit septics are making a comeback because they eliminate leach field issues and save space.

    • @ducluv
      @ducluv 2 года назад +1

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 we have a seepage pit on our older home and it’s been no issues. I agree with most of the comments about we make things more complicated. Your system looks easy and functional.

  • @ezrider1967
    @ezrider1967 3 года назад +3

    Thank you so much for this video. I am building mine exactly like you did but swapping carpet for tarps. I have the mini-excavator reserved for next week-end. This helped me immensely and I appreciate very much!

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  3 года назад +1

      Glad it was helpful! Good luck with the project

    • @ezrider1967
      @ezrider1967 3 года назад

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 Thank you sir!

    • @bluyetiinc7553
      @bluyetiinc7553 Год назад +1

      2 years on. How is it working out?

    • @ezrider1967
      @ezrider1967 Год назад +1

      @@bluyetiinc7553 beautifully! Not a single issue!

  • @ropativ7483
    @ropativ7483 2 года назад +3

    *Perforated drainage pipes might have been best to be covered with medium sized rocks as the first layer, then gravel as second layer, and fine road base on top. Doing it this way may allow constant flow of drainage and avoid fine materials blocking the perforation on the pipes resulting in clogging up the drainage pipe over time. But if that works, then algud!!!*

  • @TheMustangStampede
    @TheMustangStampede 4 года назад +2

    I once seen someone build on by hand, block, and like rubber liner paint it was two or three chambers and leach field.. I was impressed and it's way cheaper.

  • @friendlytravelsp5516
    @friendlytravelsp5516 4 года назад +5

    Thank you so much FOR YOUR KNOWLEDGE .I JUST BOUGHT 5 ACRES of land in MO.and my purpose is to be totally off grid .And the one main thing that was stumbling me the most is how are we guna do water an sewer etc etc And I sumbled on your video and I was so happy .THANK YOU SO MUCH Can you please tell me what you did for electrity?? I bought a 3500 generator but I know that will get costly on gas and I need to do solar Can you please help advice me on anything I NEED ALL HELP I CAN GET ON OFF GRID LIVING.AGAIN THANK YOU AN GOD BLESS YOU AN FAMILY.OH in case you wondering We will be living 100 percent on land .We have hardly any type restrictions out there so .Should be pretty laid back on much of everything

  • @remotecontrolfarmer
    @remotecontrolfarmer 11 месяцев назад

    well, yesterday I followed your video, without the earth moving machinery of course and the concrete and and and, well, not I have a flushing system, trying to organise a second flow bin for the overflow. kudos to you

  • @BoxcarsGarage
    @BoxcarsGarage 6 лет назад +8

    Great job.... I'd love to have an off grid spot one day. Thanks for sharing...I for one appreciate your resourcefulness.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  6 лет назад +1

      Thanks boxcar! I like to hear the feedback

    • @curtphillipps975
      @curtphillipps975 4 года назад

      We have a 40acre farm we’re going to do family reunions at definitely going to do a few of these,great video!
      How often do you add microbes to dissolve solids?

  • @rubensalais1502
    @rubensalais1502 4 года назад +6

    This system works on Texas I help my frend with his septic and this is being working for about 18 years, no clean up
    Just bacteria every month,

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +3

      Thats good to hear. I hope mine lasts that long

    • @poppaluv
      @poppaluv 3 года назад

      YMMV, but a cup of buttermilk and your bacteria will LOVE you!!! (Also, why would your leech field only last a decade?0

  • @creekwalker62
    @creekwalker62 5 лет назад +5

    I used your video to set up my septic tank. Thanks.

  • @jedmarum
    @jedmarum 6 лет назад +12

    Great job. Good ideas! I have worked professionally on septic systems - and you did do it right! I would be careful about the volume you ask it to handle .... you could have a separate solution for grey water and that would greatly increase your system's longevity - and I would also be sure to reduce the grease that goes down the drain. Anyway - great job. I hope it lasts you a lifetime!

    • @dakotafarmgirl4032
      @dakotafarmgirl4032 5 лет назад

      hi jedmarum, hope you see this question . Would this work in a cold climate using these plastic tanks ? I am not sure where this is being filmed. thanks so much I loved the video too !

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад +1

      I would research how deep your frost line gets. I would think it would be ok if it was below the frost line BUT as I said in the video: I am not a septic expert. Thanks for watching!!

  • @hoopaholic134
    @hoopaholic134 6 лет назад +7

    Great video man! Since I've bought my property, this is the one system that I'm just not sure about. Out house, composting toilet or DIY septic. This video perked my ears up for sure!

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  6 лет назад +3

      This system is working flawlessly after a year of intermittent use. For the small amount of dollars I have invested I couldnt be happier. Thanks for watching!

    • @hoopaholic134
      @hoopaholic134 6 лет назад +1

      UnitedStatesofBuild what are you doing for water pressure if you don't mind me asking?

    • @daveygivens735
      @daveygivens735 5 лет назад

      Don't use an outhouse. Dogman will getcha.

  • @Nakira2000
    @Nakira2000 3 года назад

    Awesome this is my favorite to install into the ground video. I do have a favorite how the totes were put together. Im so taking advice and methods from both videos

  • @TXJan0057
    @TXJan0057 5 лет назад +4

    Thanks for the video, especially the diagram of how you connected the two tanks. I think I would have skipped the carpet just seems like something that will rot and cause more problems than it helps. For all you septic police, he already said this is not where he lives, it's like a deer camp or something. You people need to get a grip, I know lots of people who have 55 gallon barrel systems at deer camp that have been there for 10 years.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад +3

      Yes, Im sure the carpet rotted within the first few weeks. It was just to keep the backfill from caving in the sides while the dry concrete mixture had time to hydrate and cure. Thanks for watching!

    • @davesilvia9711
      @davesilvia9711 4 года назад +1

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 that carpet will last 10-15 years

    • @TheBlairHouseProject
      @TheBlairHouseProject Год назад

      I have dug up carpet that has been in the ground for decades probably. Still holding together.. came out in one piece with the excavator

  • @HayabusaOrlando
    @HayabusaOrlando 4 года назад +19

    I'm sure that is not up to code. . AND I LOVE IT !!!!

    • @paulkossik
      @paulkossik 2 года назад

      Don't know the jurisdiction, but I don't see a real problem.

  • @ibrahiymghany4996
    @ibrahiymghany4996 5 лет назад

    I also planned to use those tanks. I know they are not as thick or strong as the plastic tanks that are specifically made for sewage so decided to add some concrete. Great minds think alike bro. Thumbs up

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад

      Mine are holding up great, I am really pleased with the performance. I think its important to keep fluid inside also to counteract the force of the earth pushing in. Good luck man!!

  • @bradfordpalmer2298
    @bradfordpalmer2298 5 лет назад +2

    Great info. One thing you left out is the dip tube going into tank and the one coming out should 90 down about halfway into tank to keep "floaters" from blocking pipe.
    Btw...
    For hundreds of years people have bén using similar systems for septic tanks.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад +4

      They are 45-ed down. Did you see my super awesome drawing at 1:55? Thanks for watching

  • @stevenkyle2313
    @stevenkyle2313 4 года назад +4

    Thank you for teaching us your ways, master!
    Seriously, thank you!

  • @JesusIsaFlatEarther
    @JesusIsaFlatEarther 5 лет назад +3

    I think the going price around here for a septic mound system is $20,000. I'm thinking an outhouse sounds like a better plan.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад

      Geez, I think I built my entire 16x24 cabin for less than $20k. I pulled some strings, it was ALL DIY and I was fairly resourceful acquiring material but Wow, $20k just to flush the toilet......? Yikes

    • @JesusIsaFlatEarther
      @JesusIsaFlatEarther 5 лет назад

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 Yeah, the State decides what kind of system you need and now many are mound systems. I know it's $20,000 because that's what my brother just paid. In 1972, my Dad built his 3 bedroom house with a basement for $20K, that's including electric and septic and the driveway. In fiat currency today, he could get close to $300,000. on the 3.5 acres it sits on.

  • @stretch130MFE
    @stretch130MFE 4 года назад

    Best off grid tutorial yet. Good job.

  • @LWYOffGridHomestead
    @LWYOffGridHomestead 4 года назад +1

    Love it & the current update on how it's working...thanks!

  • @c50ge
    @c50ge 3 года назад +1

    How would you like to be the guy that gets to fix that when it fails?
    If you use those for forms and concrete over and around them would be a good tank.

  • @conjugalvisitor5532
    @conjugalvisitor5532 6 лет назад +12

    I thought he would say "tanks" for watching.

  • @tvs3497
    @tvs3497 6 лет назад +7

    Nice job, that's more environmentally friendly than inside my refrigerator.

  • @sarahs.6457
    @sarahs.6457 4 года назад +1

    Thank you for the great video! Definitely gives ideas for our off grid cabin.

  • @bradlysmalley461
    @bradlysmalley461 5 месяцев назад

    I would like a list of what you all used please im gonna use this on my tiny house (shed)

  • @inthelandofmilkandhoney457
    @inthelandofmilkandhoney457 3 года назад

    I’d sure be afraid to use CONCRETE here in the North. The Ground heaves from the frost. The Concrete would go through the side of that tank after one season.

  • @johnleca
    @johnleca 3 года назад

    Great work and you used the word I love that begins with "F:".....FREE! GE silicone 2 would have helped to act as a seal or glue for the pvc after using some rough sandpaper to give some adhesion. Not being critical just an alternative. Yes we all love building codes. LMAO

  • @808pathfinder
    @808pathfinder 2 года назад

    If you live were you have winters you must be under the frost line 4 feet from the top of the tank , for what you had you saved a lot of $$$ that way ,well done for a fist try

  • @snuffa.luffaguss6337
    @snuffa.luffaguss6337 6 лет назад +9

    8 months later is the septic tank still holding up

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  6 лет назад +23

      Yes, it is still functioning just fine. It has only seen intermittent use as this is not a permanent residence. That said, the toilet flushes and the shower drains every time! Last time we were there I popped the lids and checked the inside of the tanks....and it appeared as healthy as a septic tank can appear😝
      thanks for watching

    • @TheCls63
      @TheCls63 4 года назад

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 What do you do once the solids accumulates in the tanks?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад

      @@TheCls63 There is a septic company that comes out and services the surrounding area, Id probably just have them vacuum the tank. There hasnt been a need yet...

  • @PaulyVonPaulson
    @PaulyVonPaulson 6 лет назад +4

    Excellent video. Bet you get 30 yrs at least out of it.

  • @lauragraves4342
    @lauragraves4342 5 лет назад +1

    If I said this idea 'tanked' I would be wrong. I would also be right, however, technically. Great video and great job.

  • @PaulDrummer1
    @PaulDrummer1 6 лет назад +9

    Nice video, could you please draw a detailed plan of the system you made?

    • @BellyUpFishGarage
      @BellyUpFishGarage 5 лет назад +1

      1:55

    • @peterbeyer5755
      @peterbeyer5755 5 лет назад +2

      See DIY sewerage system, a guy in Australia built a tote system for under a thousand dollars that treats 1000 lites per day.

  • @Chris_Prime
    @Chris_Prime 3 года назад

    I assume the poop gets vacuumed out at some point?

  • @TORAH-613
    @TORAH-613 2 года назад

    Can you give an update on the septic system?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  2 года назад

      I was just there and it was working flawless. I do updates in the video description. Thanks for watching!

  • @oilspeculatorhater
    @oilspeculatorhater 6 лет назад +4

    Thank you for sharing. Great work.

  • @serenityfarmsprepping2267
    @serenityfarmsprepping2267 Год назад

    Will this work in an area that gets well below freezing in the winter, at only 6" down? My home septic is concrete and at the level, but plastic??

  • @off-gridhillbillystyle3735
    @off-gridhillbillystyle3735 4 года назад +2

    Fill the tanks with water before you bury them or they'll collapes

  • @daleval2182
    @daleval2182 5 лет назад +8

    Good job, but you made me laugh advising us to follow. Code. Lol. OK then you say to, just do as you say, not as you do, NP I got it!, wink, wink, it's a perfect system for an off grid, or a cottage, I may have went 4 weepimg tiles myself, so the water dispersed faster, as you mentioned soggy soil, and I may have run a 5 or 6 degree to speed run away, but all in all, beats and outhouse

  • @erichoover8803
    @erichoover8803 4 года назад +1

    Job well done sir thank you. How did you fix the pipes between both containers. With no access to the inside. I'm looking to do the same setup but that was my only question. Thank you again

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад

      Hey Eric. Hopefully they dont need to be fixed. What scenario are you imagining? This system could easily be pumped and hosed out if it clogs. If it breaks I'd probably fix it the same as if a poly tank broke. Thanks for watching!

    • @alexmatiaco7118
      @alexmatiaco7118 4 года назад +2

      UnitedStatesofBuild He meant how did you attach them to each other. Not having access inside.

  • @TheAkstewie
    @TheAkstewie 2 года назад +1

    How did it work out for you long term? Any flow issues? How did you connect the two IBC's

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  2 года назад +1

      Its working great. I have more detail in this more recent video:
      ruclips.net/video/XgcLpN95rzY/видео.html

  • @oilspeculatorhater
    @oilspeculatorhater 3 года назад

    Good stuff to know, thank you for sharing.

  • @daveygivens735
    @daveygivens735 5 лет назад +4

    Can I guess you're in the south? It sounds like you're describing Florida soil.

  • @timkneiski9919
    @timkneiski9919 4 года назад +1

    A barrel and 36 ft line has been working for me since 04 been meaning to upgrade to system like yours but haven't needed to yet. I have gravel and sandy soil though.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +1

      Heck yeh, if this system lasts that long Ill be stoked....16 years, pretty nice

    • @timkneiski9919
      @timkneiski9919 4 года назад +1

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 it will no doubt.

  • @freemanbaldwin5207
    @freemanbaldwin5207 3 месяца назад

    The system is scary, what a mess for somebody to remove someday. You could’ve build a a septic tank out of concrete or prefabricated plastic tank.

  • @SergeM123
    @SergeM123 4 года назад +1

    The liquids in the first tank are probably warm, but will they freeze in the second one?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +1

      That may be a concern in certain regions but definitely not where I am.

    • @stephenkeebler732
      @stephenkeebler732 4 года назад +1

      If the tank is below your grounds frostline it shouldn't be a problem. Also, constant daily use keeps adding the 'Fuel' to the bacteria to eat and generate heat in the tank. If both aren't possible, put about a 12" layer of mulch on the ground above it, makes a thermal blanket for it...

  • @johnnypoppyhead4116
    @johnnypoppyhead4116 3 года назад

    My second liquid tank will be a55 gallon drum // I can un screw the top as months and years go by..with a flash light see it ever gets full .. I willonly purchase one 10 foot pipe with holes in it for drainage ..by looking at my 3 different drain tanks off 10 feet in 3 differtn direction..they after 22 years are still dry inside

  • @rongray4118
    @rongray4118 4 года назад

    The only thing I would say that might have been a thought to add...a biodigestor pipe...you'd have some gas to recover for use. Great job - good enough to get the job done!

  • @chaoticgood3935
    @chaoticgood3935 4 года назад +2

    Excellent DIY - I learned a lot. Question: After a few years or so when the solids have built up, how do you intend to vacuum the sludge? I have been researching and am just curious to know the method you have thought about implementing when the time comes. Thanks!

  • @annmathos-omeara5040
    @annmathos-omeara5040 4 года назад +1

    You're a genius!!

  • @InvernessFarm
    @InvernessFarm 3 года назад

    I have 4 ibc tanks. How can I design so that first two can hold the solid and next two can hold the liquid?

  • @Loveisthegreater
    @Loveisthegreater 3 года назад

    Will people pump these out if they don’t look to code though?

  • @wulfclaw4921
    @wulfclaw4921 2 года назад

    Thanks. Needed this !

  • @dcryan44
    @dcryan44 4 года назад

    Can you describe how you connected the tanks together and how you connected the pvc drainage field pipes to the second tank?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +2

      I sat the tanks on a level surface
      carefully and accurately marked out the connecting holes
      Drilled them out for a tight fit using a hole saw
      slide totes together and tightly wire the cages together
      Through the top opening slide a length of PVC through both the holes
      Caulk or seal around the pipes (a hand tube of caulk may be easiest)
      Add a TEE to each side of the pipe (I used 45*s but have been told on here that TEEs are better)
      The above steps I did in my driveway, before I headed to the cabin. It took about a half an hour. It helps if you are limber or have a helper that is.
      Once the tank was installed I located the inlet and outlets according to the building requirements. Going off memory the outlet needs to be 2/3 or so up (you may want to double check that). To seal all these connections on the outside of the totes I poured concrete around them. Hope that helps

    • @dcryan44
      @dcryan44 4 года назад +1

      Thank you! Caulk. That's what I was looking for.

  • @rinkevichjm
    @rinkevichjm 3 года назад

    You could have used slag cement.
    Also you should have used tees on the outlets and and effluent filter on the final tank.
    You didn’t mention how you calculated the tank sizes or leach field size. Typically a 3 or less bed room house would take a minimum of 1000 Gal. Total in tank size while a 5 bedrooom is going to need about 1500 G. The leach field size in sq feet is determined by the percolation rate and about half the total tank size as the number of gallons per day. You can look at various state or local codes if your area doesn’t have that in their codes.

  • @ezrider1967
    @ezrider1967 4 года назад +1

    Hey buddy how far of the bottom of the totes did you connect your leech lines? I am planning on building one just like this. Also what size pipe did you connect the totes with and was it connected in the middle or bottom of the totes? Thanks a lot!

  • @wulfclaw4921
    @wulfclaw4921 4 года назад

    Excellent !! Thanks for the instructional. I assume it all has been working well since you completed it !
    Saving this so I can do the same.
    Much appreciated!
    Wulfy

  • @dorcaspowellpowell5971
    @dorcaspowellpowell5971 4 года назад

    Imaginative creative kudos to you 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽.

  • @tawanakakaupu3063
    @tawanakakaupu3063 6 лет назад +2

    Do you have a video on how you created the sceptic tanks?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  6 лет назад +3

      This is the only video I have. The tanks themselves are just IBC totes that I connected as I described in the video.

    • @AndrewCamarata
      @AndrewCamarata 5 лет назад

      Just buy a real septic tank. Doing this is not doing yourself any favors.

  • @kaseycasece1340
    @kaseycasece1340 5 лет назад +4

    young man ,
    never put cememt to must weight , and the stone for any plastic tank or poly tank !
    all way put white sand base and on the side ! ,

    • @josephmcknight8871
      @josephmcknight8871 4 года назад +2

      Huh????

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +2

      I wasnt sure either....
      I was thinking he was addressing abrasion by the rocks against the poly. Thats a valid concern, but probably not for a very, very long time..... The cement being too heavy is moot. Cement should be viewed as structural, a net positive not negative. As far as a system update I have been using it every weekend for the last 2 months with ZER0 issues. Also, I have since added the porch over the tanks. Thanks

  • @MrsBuddevil
    @MrsBuddevil 4 месяца назад

    What size pipes did you use for risers

  • @donttread5414
    @donttread5414 4 года назад +1

    IMO, a simple compost toilet would be much simpler then creating septic tanks. It also is failproof, and you dont need to hire a company to empty your septic tank. Or just a hole in the ground.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +5

      This has been working much better than Id ever have expected. Plus the shower and sink had to go somewhere

    • @claytoncoolidge992
      @claytoncoolidge992 3 года назад

      I've had a composting toilet and was a complete failure it never functioned properly from day one even after having the company come to the house and ensure that it was properly installed and they had thier engineers study the issue to no avail. In the end it ended with a lawsuit against the company and them paying for their failures. Composting toilets aren't a very good option and an out house works much better even in the cold Michigan winter than those disease infested composting toilets

    • @donttread5414
      @donttread5414 3 года назад

      @@claytoncoolidge992 All a composting toilet is, is a bucket with raw organic material (ie saw dust) you shit / piss in, then cover with more organic material. When its full you empty it outside in a compost heap. Any sort of fancy commercialized compost toilets are a waste of money and unnecessary IMO. Keep it simple.

  • @SaintJames40
    @SaintJames40 3 года назад

    So when the tanks are full you just call a local septic company and they pump it no questions or problems?

    • @joshwooten3719
      @joshwooten3719 3 года назад

      The water in the tank once full would overflow and flow into a typical leach field. Only solids stay in the tank longterm.

    • @SaintJames40
      @SaintJames40 3 года назад

      @@joshwooten3719 but when the tank becomes full of solids the septic companies will pump it no problem?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  3 года назад +1

      I havent had a problem yet. Unless the septic guy really loves to stick his head inside tanks I dont anticipate having much problem. Thanks for the comments!

  • @Quarantain
    @Quarantain 4 года назад +1

    This is the video I've been looking for! Thanks for positing. I'm looking to DIY a rain harvesting system. Being in Europe, garden space is hard to come by so an underground system is the way to go. Any thoughts or advice you can impart?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад

      This one has been flawless. I wouldnt change anything. When it eventually fails I will reevaluate.

    • @brianmclane8922
      @brianmclane8922 3 года назад

      How can you keep your catchment full all the time to prevent collapse

  • @RealMesaMike
    @RealMesaMike 3 года назад

    No sanitary tee on the outlet inside the tank?

  • @bluegrassadventure
    @bluegrassadventure 5 лет назад +1

    experts I've talked to say get your tanks pumped out every 2-3 years. do you plan on doing this and if so when you built your deck on top did you make it accessible?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад +2

      Yeh, if it needs it I can. I did leave it accessible. Thanks for watching!!

    • @raisinggoldfishonabudget7058
      @raisinggoldfishonabudget7058 5 лет назад

      that's what I was thinking when he said he was going to put a porch over it.

    • @lynwoodspire8503
      @lynwoodspire8503 5 лет назад

      I’m sure he can remove screws from the porch decking boards to access the two lids on top of the tanks.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад

      The porch is raised. It has about 2' of space under it.

    • @johninokla2635
      @johninokla2635 5 лет назад

      Kevin Covert, I lived in a trailer house with a homebuilt septic system for over 20 years and it never needed pumped. The only time the owner needed to dig it up was when the metal barrel he used rusted through. He finally put in a plastic barrel and hasn't messed with it since and that was over 20 years ago. What I'm getting at is if done properly you will never have to have it pumped out. The bacteria will do it's job of eatting the waste.

  • @enriqueecheverria8592
    @enriqueecheverria8592 3 года назад

    Do you happen to have a 3 year update on this septic system?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  3 года назад

      Its working flawlessly, no issues whatsoever. I haven't pumped it yet, maybe in a year or two.

  • @waveoflight
    @waveoflight 5 лет назад +1

    1.75 years later, (since you published the video) how is it holding up?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад +2

      Really well. The tanks are holding up great. The plumbing is flowing the same as new and the fluid level is always consistent. Im very pleased with the performance.

    • @waveoflight
      @waveoflight 5 лет назад +1

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 That is good to hear.
      I have a 40 yo leach field that has been replaces once. It needs to be replaced a second time. I am going to DIY it. I lready need to pay for an engineer saya the state.

  • @briandoyle6188
    @briandoyle6188 5 лет назад

    Hi just a quick question would this system be ok for one person of course I'll have visitors and how often would it have to be emptied and would a commercial company do that..... Something else I've thought of if treated could the waste be pumped out yourself (me)👍and used safely on the land as fertilizer.....

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад

      Mine is still working perfectly. Its a few years old at this point but only gets used intermittently, a few days a month by 3-4 people at a time. I haven't had to pump it out yet. There are places (where legal) that use waste from porta-johns to fertilize crops like alfalfa. In the olden days they just dug a pit and filled it in when it was full 😲.

  • @bmaiceman
    @bmaiceman 4 года назад

    Where was this video made?? Is it all plumbing going to thus tank or the 🚽 only?? How many ppl will be using it??

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад

      It services a full bath: 1 shower, 1 sink and 1 toilet. Our family of five uses it when we go to the cabin for several days at a time.

  • @kartoonz8286
    @kartoonz8286 6 лет назад +2

    How much people would this set up accommodate for?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  6 лет назад +3

      Maybe someone here who knows more about septic systems would know better? Im sure it depends greatly on soil composition. This system is servicing a single bath right now under intermittent use.

  • @ranibearsilva5883
    @ranibearsilva5883 3 года назад

    Hey mate , hows your Septic tank doing after all this time ?

  • @milohajek
    @milohajek 4 года назад

    FYI, Its a BACKHOE NOT A TRACTOR.

  • @guillermococofrito9196
    @guillermococofrito9196 3 года назад

    I dont get why we do this instead of a dry compost toilet.

    • @sNEAKYnIGHTmUPPET
      @sNEAKYnIGHTmUPPET 2 года назад

      because one way involves flushing a normal toilet, and the other involves pooping into a bucket and then covering it with moss and sawdust. I like normal toilets myself

  • @MTKRAILROAD
    @MTKRAILROAD 6 месяцев назад

    the font you used makes me feel like I'm trying to solve a captcha

  • @bradlyjohnson60
    @bradlyjohnson60 4 года назад

    Hey I'm going off grid and would like too pick your Brian on some thing brotha if you have some time.

  • @DiGiTaLdAzEDM
    @DiGiTaLdAzEDM 4 года назад

    How much length of perforated pipe did you use, and did you cap the ends of those distribution pipes? Thanks.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад

      I have 40' total of perf pipe and I did cap the ends to prevent soil intrusion

  • @CK-dt6nx
    @CK-dt6nx 4 года назад

    Hope you added a T at the inlet of your leech line in the tank so the grease layer doesnt enter your drain field. Have one end of the T down in the grey water 6 to 8 inches and the other coming out of the septic tank where you can access it to clean it out from above ground if needed. Otherwise your drain field will plug with floatables like toilet paper and grease.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +1

      Elbows facing down on this one. I like the T idea for top access

    • @CK-dt6nx
      @CK-dt6nx 4 года назад

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 never know if you'll need to rod out your field

    • @rinkevichjm
      @rinkevichjm 3 года назад

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 you should have the tee to put an effluent filter before it exits.

  • @christopherhayes9827
    @christopherhayes9827 5 лет назад +5

    Off grid?
    Is any gravity septic ON grid?

    • @williamgosvener47
      @williamgosvener47 5 лет назад

      Christopher Hayes my sister is has a gravity feed septic system installed and county water / electric. Yes it does happen, she is about 3 miles outside of town

    • @39gadget
      @39gadget 5 лет назад +1

      Most small towns and villages only have homes that run off of septic systems and private water wells. Not every town in North America has its own sewage system.

  • @jimscheltema670
    @jimscheltema670 4 года назад

    Are you describing the soil in Florida? I live in Florida and this sounds like a great solution for an off-grid storage container house. Am I missing something or do you think this may be a viable solution that I should pursue attempting? Thanks!

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад +1

      This system has been performing perfectly for me. Now keep in mind its not my primary residence. This location is only used a couple times per month. As far as the boggy soil the carpet-wrap and prefilling the tanks with water helped alleviate the initial pressure of the soil pushing inward. Once the concrete settled in that helps in the long run. The beauty of this system is the minimal cost and readily available materials. Good luck!!

    • @jimscheltema670
      @jimscheltema670 4 года назад +1

      @@unitedstatesofbuild4915 Thank you for the quick response!

  • @alechamid235
    @alechamid235 4 года назад

    You don't have any ventilation hole/pipe on the first tote?.... I thought ventilation was necessary.

  • @chrisclassical7
    @chrisclassical7 2 месяца назад

    good watch

  • @gina4319
    @gina4319 5 лет назад

    is a perc test required when replacing an existing drain field

  • @Daddyjjlee
    @Daddyjjlee 3 года назад

    So how did it age so far?

  • @davelyon1542
    @davelyon1542 5 лет назад +1

    Hi I like your work, I am guessing that you live in an area with little frost/ice infiltration into the soil? Problems with heaving otherwise?

  • @coyoteridgeRED
    @coyoteridgeRED 4 года назад

    How are your tanks working today
    I'm about to the same thing

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  4 года назад

      Working Great. I was just out with the family and we all took showers, used the toilet and had 0 problems. I've been very happy with the return-on-investment. Good luck with your project.

  • @usserydavid4822
    @usserydavid4822 3 года назад

    OK, I am just starting to research stuff like this for my tiny house. This seems like overkill. I just want to take a dump inside the house and have to go away. Couldn't this system be scaled down to work for one person using tops 15 gallons per day?

  • @mikestephens7093
    @mikestephens7093 6 лет назад +2

    I'd be concerned with the "dusty" rock in the drainfield. Those fines will wash down to the native soil and fill in all the pore spaces. This will negatively impact the performance of the field.

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  6 лет назад +2

      Yes it was def a consideration. In most systems it would likely be an issue. However, here it was ultimately determined that the boggy, silty soil will intrude and impede performance much sooner that the fines in the rock will.

  • @phillipmortlock393
    @phillipmortlock393 4 года назад +3

    Off the grid and you have an excavator. Pft I'm out.

  • @KletosMinistries
    @KletosMinistries 5 лет назад

    Is it necessary that the 2nd tank get air for the bacteria to be aerobic?

    • @unitedstatesofbuild4915
      @unitedstatesofbuild4915  5 лет назад

      I have heard guys say the fastest way to age your septic system is with modern laundry detergent. I have a buddy that uses a dedicated system for laundry and it seems to work really well.

    • @rinkevichjm
      @rinkevichjm 3 года назад

      It’s completely anaerobic, the leach field has the aerobic treatment.

  • @amsohn1
    @amsohn1 4 года назад

    Good job... blessings

  • @ovaltinequeen8368
    @ovaltinequeen8368 6 лет назад +1

    Would/did this pass an inspection?

    • @tomco78
      @tomco78 6 лет назад

      no it will not pass inspection!

    • @AndrewCamarata
      @AndrewCamarata 5 лет назад +2

      Do not do this. Just buy a real septic tank.