A more better, low cost DIY Septic system for an "off grid" cabin or camper. Part 1

[@DannyWildmen]

I was raised on a farm, you run your washing machine out a separate pipe that just drains away from the septic tank it doesn't drain into the system! You can even do that with your kitchen drains! The septic system is only for the toilet. Just some advice.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

TBS Good advice! No washing machine at our little cabin but I think I will keep the kitchen sink hooked up. We don’t cook much so it is mostly water. Thank you for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. Barry

[@charleswalters5284]

​@@barrylukebuilds7894gray water

[@JCS1964-i7w]

That’s actually probably the best thing you could do

[@kencleg7721]

By law depends on where u live the kitchen must be tied into the system cause it’s food particles check your code

[@kencleg7721]

A good fix is just pump every 4 years to get the solids out

[@jeevespreston]

What a remarkably creative and hard-working man you are! Your family is truly blessed to have you!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Would you please tell that to my wife!! But seriously, thank you very much. Kind words are always appreciated. Barry

[@humanityfighting4apulse378]

I love your channel!!! Ingenuity is something that is lacking in recent generations of the male human species. It is refreshing and quite exciting to see that you have those skills and the ingenuity to “get’r done”! Thank you so much for sharing , and a I will be watching as long as you are producing videos on your channel. I know your wife is so proud of you! God bless y’all, keep you safe and well. I pray this in Jesus’ name, amen!! 😃♥️🙏🤗

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you for the very kind words. I will share as long as I have something that I think is worth sharing. Not sure what the future holds. Barry

[@ImionsaeXwb77]

we did this 40+ years ago when we built our own house on the Indian reservation, we dug a big deep hole to fit 8 55g stainless steel drums, 4 on the bottom 4 on the top, run 4 inch pvc pipe from the drums, poke holes on the side of the drums to drain into the soil, no septic pipes, lasted about 20 years....

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Well I am 70 so 20 years sounds pretty good.

[@GrabLifeByDaPoosy]

​@@barrylukebuilds7894Look into Cabin Obsession septic tank treatment. It's affordable and offers protection for about 2 bucks per month by flushing a packet. It is all natural with billions of bacteria inside that break everything down to keep things flowing. We have a similar setup like the one in this video and haven't had any problems.

[@seancripps4897]

What happened after 20 years though ?

[@solarindependentutilitysystems]

Built my own and it’s the only one that’s never failed ! Paid systems like in a hoa wasn’t any good it failed repeatedly. Not worth paying for ! Mines totally underground Anyways check out my book Solar independent Utility systems manual This subject is not covered btw

[@solarindependentutilitysystems]

Treatment of yeast Works fantastically See your generator lol

[@mattelgin213]

I did this with one 55-gallon drum and one six-foot perforated PVC pipe for the leach field. Very minimal. Been working great for five years. I only run the toilet throught it so antibacterial soap from the shower and sink are not killing the bacteria that keeps the septic tank working.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Wow, that’s good to know. Thanks, this gives me confidence for our setup.

[@krazzygranny7032]

my grandfather did the 55 gallon drum on his home in the country, in the early 60's, lasted till we sold the house after my grandmother passed in the mid to late 80's

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

@@krazzygranny7032so much of has to do with what goes down the drain. Older folks tend to have simpler lifestyles with are a good match with a septic system!

[@graftedinforever971]

Just don't use antibacterial soap! It's not good for living organisms. You included.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

@@graftedinforever971 i agree 100% with this!

[@ottokittel709]

nice looking job! built a few septic tanks many years ago in some hunt camps with the blue plastic barrels like you did. I am now 78 years old and nice to look back at the good times.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Otto! Glad my little video gave a little pleasure. Barry

[@Worldsokayestcraftsman]

You nailed it when you mentioned concerns about the square water tote. I've seen a system using one collapse inward for the exact reasons you mentioned.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks for sharing!

[@SlipFitGarage]

We did this at a cabin in the woods of northern Minnesota. However, instead of three 55 gallon drums, we used two 5 gallon buckets. lol. That system worked great connected to one shower and one toilet. BUT, that one toilet would serve 6-8 guys every weekend during the spring, summer, and fall months for at least 5 or 6 years. The owner of the cabin was always amazed when one of the guys would show up with one of those jumbo packs of toilet paper like you get from Sam's Club or Costco.... He always wondered where all that paper eventually went. The system worked great for many years until he finally built a new house on the property and installed a proper septic system.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Wow! That’s good to know. Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. Barry

[@a.joegevara3519]

I built a two chamber septic tank 37 years ago out of cinder blocks plastered the inside with white cement. Still working to this day. Built one 2 years ago. If you follow the basic rules it shouldn't give you problems. I put clean outs fore & aft every couple of years I'll put 50# of rock salt into my drain feild to mitigate root intrusion. ;)

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Joe! Success stories built my confidence. Interesting tip on killing roots, might use that one day.

[@franklee2683]

I like this idea...

[@ajfoskett8826]

This old timer who used to be a septic guy told me to get a gallon of whole milk, leave it out in the sun till it curdled, and the pour it or flush it into the tank. Said it keeps the micro organisms happy. Been doing that for years and never had to pump the tank on my system. For full time use do it every 4 or 5 months. For seasonal properties, once a year. Hope that helps extend your tiny system. 😊

[@GrabLifeByDaPoosy]

Check out Cabin Obsession septic tank treatment. It's affordable and offers protection for about $2 per month by flushing a packet. It is all natural with billions of bacteria inside that break everything down to keep things flowing. We have a similar setup like the one in this video and haven't had any problems.

[@GrabLifeByDaPoosy]

Look into Cabin Obsession septic tank treatment. It's affordable and offers protection for about 2 bucks per month by flushing a packet. It is all natural with billions of bacteria inside that break everything down to keep things flowing. We have a similar setup like the one in this video and haven't had any problems.

[@2003evodave]

@@GrabLifeByDaPoosy. Wrong! No one needs to add any chemicals or enzymes to a septic system. Every time you use the toilet you are adding the natural e-coli from your body. By adding a chemical or enzyme you over accelerate the active digestive system adding too many suspended particles throughout the tank which then leaves the system to the drain field coating the leach line walls causing a failure.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

I spent 25 years working for a division of a large construction company that handled mostly water and wastewater plant work. We built new, did additions, and renovation. Every time a tank was taken out of service and put back in service there was talk of grabbing a bucket of sludge from another plant to "seed" the biomass in the new system. To my knowledge it never happened. Put food (poop) in water and the bacteria will appear. it is magic!

[@SaveYourBrainKillTV]

I have used yeast for enzyme help snd to eat the paper waste added by visitors.

[@robinfulton9057]

For the life of me I couldn’t see how that led or bottom ended up in your yard, then I see the table saw. Glad you put the 4 by up to the fence, yep I learn the hard way to. That system should work great for you. Job well done Barry.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Robin. The cuts were a little sketchy but if you know that going in you can take precautions.

[@rangerbob42]

I would have put a 4” pipe coming out the top with a screw in cap top,also for future clean-out using a pumping truck. I did the same thing with a 500 gallon septic tank that I installed in the early 90’s before doing your own became illegal within certain limits. It lasted about 20 something years before having to call a pump truck to come out for pumping it out and refilling with water again. You did a fantastic job! I really enjoyed watching your work!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Ranger! A 4” riser definitely would have made future pump outs easier. I (or my boys) will have to do a little shovel work. The tops are less than a foot down so I won’t be too bad. Thanks for the kind words and I am glad you enjoyed! Barry

[@cwb43068]

I keep my septic happy by doing laundry on the back patio, washer sprung a small leak and parts are over 200 for a 10 year old washer so it went outside and drains into the yard. 3 months of rain and still going strong! It asked nicely to move to the basement for the winter and the wife accepted. She then requested at spring to take it back out she enjoys outdoor laundry. Its a win win!!!!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Sounds like a good situation to me! Thanks for watching and thanks for sharing, Barry

[@seancripps4897]

I never considered an outdoor laundry. Damn kids leave their clothes, bathing suits and towels all over the yard anyway.

[@TheMakersMarkTSF]

Thank you for this video, I was tossing around ideas for my off-grid camper and I really like this one!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

TMM I am glad you found some value in the video. Thank you for letting me know. Barry

[@davidluke8460]

I started feeling a little jealous when I saw you working that sand with the level in the bottom of the hole. It doesn’t get much more satisfying than screeding out some sand! Might have to buy me a truckload as well

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

If you are having grading withdrawal symptoms you are welcome to come grade out my 60’ of wash stone for the leach field. I won’t even charge you!

[@davidluke8460]

@@barrylukebuilds7894that’s a deal

[@vincentsaladino9207]

We had a couple of old 24" concrete pipe stood vertical on a concrete bottom. Busted a hole in the side with a maul and installed the pipe similar to what you have in the video. Only toilet effluent went into it, kitchen and sink drains were separate and ran into a ditch. Used for 50+years.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Vincent! Thats makes me more optimistic. Hope my system works as well as yours. Barry

[@chugaaa]

Awesome job, specially for one man army like yours that was impressive! Hope it works to keep the lady happy.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you chugaaa! It should make her happy, for a minute.

[@jessehansen10]

On my property I have a sewer lagoon that drains out into the woods. Forest is beautiful in the spring. Plus the berry bushes love it.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

An excellent solution!

[@johnthomas5806]

and by adding as little as a tablespoon of bakers yeast to septic system you can break down any material setting in tanks and getting a better liquid flow. the yeast will not harm the soil bacteria either. Many professional septic plumbers will use yeast to shock septic systems for a rapid clean up/clean out...Even as a child I remember my parents throwing old bread into the outhouse so the yeast in it would help breakdown the waste and the system would last longer....

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks John Hard to argue with success and as this will be the first septic system in my life a should listen to experience. Thanks Barry

[@kencleg7721]

Yup one 1 oz packet of bakers yeast. Monthly it’s what rid x is

[@seancripps4897]

What if I just eat a lot of bread ? 🍞

[@FFLFFS]

Sorry guys .. Yeast isn't typically used in septic tanks for anaerobic digestion. Here's why: 1. Yeast requires oxygen: Yeast is primarily aerobic, meaning it thrives in oxygen-rich environments. Septic tanks, being anaerobic, lack sufficient oxygen. 2. Yeast doesn't break down complex organics: Yeast is better suited for fermenting simple sugars, not complex organic matter found in septic tank waste. Ideal fungi and microorganisms for septic tank anaerobic digestion: 1. Anaerobic bacteria: - Methanobacterium - Methanococcus - Clostridium 2. Fungi: - Aspergillus - Penicillium - Fusarium (some species) These microorganisms Thrive in low-oxygen environments, Break down complex organic mattersnd Produce beneficial byproducts (e.g., methane, carbon dioxide) 1. Ensure adequate retention time (~ 24-48 hours) 2. Maintain optimal pH (6.5-8.5) 3. Monitor temperature (mesophilic range: 10-40°C) 4. Avoid harsh chemicals Consider adding septic-safe additives or beneficial microorganisms Some popular septic tank additives contain: 1. Bacillus 2. Pseudomonas 3. Nitrosomonas 4. Nitrobacter Buying specifically designed septic tank additives can simplify maintenance and ensure effectiveness.

[@thomaspepper2201]

A tip Berry they make thru-hole gromets that are septic proof just cut the right hole size put the gromet in then slide pipe into. it's water tight, way easy. Sold on line. The curve does not affect the seal.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Thomas! Mine is done but this tip might help the next guy. Judging from the comments there are a bunch of folks considering something like what I did. Barry

[@mycalltoadventure9712]

Added a full RV hook up on the back of my property about 23 years ago and did this with 2 barrels and 40’ leech line. Has been used pretty regularly pick over the years including me living in my 5th wheel full time for the last 3 years. Has worked like a charm!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

We always appreciate optimistic posts! Helps to offset all the haters. Thanks Barry

[@John-i6m8k]

I used to work on cabins in the rocky mtns and this setup reminds me of the dual 55 gallon drums theyd use, very similar.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks User! I don’t think I have invented anything here. It has all been done before. Except maybe melting the plastic to shape it. That might be a Barry original. Barry

[@gregcripps7291]

If you have a 3% drop your solid waste will be carried away by the liquid waste. Great idea. I was going to do this with the iso totes 270gallons each but county health department helped me spend about $8,000 for a much less efficient system. I loved the flexible pipe idea 💡

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Greg Sorry they got you. One thing though, you know from the countywide experience and knowledge that your system is going to work. Me, not so sure. Lots of assumptions on my part. My fingers are crossed and yours can relax. Thanks for taking the time to comment, Barry

[@MichaelrennieG]

for some people who are not educated in the sewer system, seeing how the flow works in real time going from the output to the field would of been nice to visualize, thanks for the video..

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Michael! Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to post this kind note. Barry

[@chuckles3265]

Nice work 👍 I would feel some pride with every flush

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Maybe a little blush with each flush? Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. Barry

[@paulbell1522]

That ol hindsight always rears its ugly head when you get past 50 for sure! Been waiting on a video such as this. Thanks Barry.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

So it’s not just me?

[@paulbell1522]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 absolutely not!

[@scrappydog175]

You nailed it buddy, except the inlet/outlet heights but you handled that with slope! Great job, I will be attempting something similar soon at my cabin. Thanks 😊

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Scrappy Thank you for the kind words and good luck on your project! Barry

[@kenrobinson8522]

Beyond the project... Good on you for being the guy who just does. I've always had a mind that if you need something.... MAKE IT! The actual cost is your time and for me, my time is free. Best deal I've ever been able to make is free.. Me......

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Ken, you are the man. I will always try something once, maybe twice. After that I loose interest and move on. Story of my life. On fortunately, that is one thing I am running out of. But I am not going to go down quietly, lots of stuff to mess with yet! Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to respond. Barry

[@boardwalkbw7130]

You better not let the damn government see this video...will cost you thousands. I love that you are teaching us though...incredible

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you BW! Hopefully the government has better things to do. Hard to say I am teaching when I am just showing how I am muddling through some unknown territory. But I appreciate the kind words, that’s for sure. Barry

[@boardwalkbw7130]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 teaching me a lot

[@kayakeraltamaha5720]

Tell 'me they'll have to dig up their own evidence ; )

[@livefreedom1776]

Depends on the local laws,some places have no building code

[@jeffh8872]

built a small 6 chamber concrete ceptic tank last year. I had wished seen this beforehand. Thanks

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Jeff Sounds Like quite a project! No harm in a little extra work as long as it solves the problem. Thanks for watching! Barry

[@rongray4118]

Great job, Barry! Just about the same way we are looking to do our septic in Northern Nevada on top of a mountaintop!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Ron! Your views are no doubt better than mine but I am going to guess that my soil is easier to dig, right?

[@Chimonger1]

You worked awfully hard to do that! We did a 2-barrel + simple leach, for a remote cabin, by using pvc T-pipe to form the baffles. I planned on upgrading it to have a compost box to flush to, but our plans for that place got cut short.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

How much did the PVC tees cost? You saw what my buckets cost 😏

[@ineverhadthemoney7857]

great job working the barrows

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank! Like I said in the video a good seal is important and that was all I could think of. Barry

[@kevinvaught9373]

Your bride sounds a lot like my bride. Which means I have a never ending stream of projects. Lol! Keep up the good work!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Never ending!

[@keekers]

Universally called the "honey do" list. 🤣 All wives have them. 🤣

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

@@keekersif was Trump I would say my wife has an incredible list, possibly the best list ever, an excellent list.

[@kayakeraltamaha5720]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 My honey-do list is longer than my anticipated functional life span ; )

[@mikekares-b8q]

I'm in my 70s but when you were flattening the flange holes I would have yoused a cordless impact drill to tighten those wooden discs The Old school open end wrench was driving me crazy . Good information I will be doing the same thing as we set up a septic system for a Trailer or a small cabin on our property as a guest house.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Sad thing is my impact was on my work bench. Never thought of it. Good luck with your project and thanks for the comment! Barry

[@mikekares-b8q]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 well didn't mean anything negative , Just I'm always looking to make things just a bit easier I'm sure you can relate . I'm still recovering from repairing my roof from a storm , Had a bit of a hard time running the ridge peak , and getting around up there just don't like to ask my son for help all the time ,He to is a General Contractor .

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

@@mikekares-b8qNo worries! I was just poking a little fun at myself and my lack of situational awareness. I too have competent sons but they are busy with their own lives so I hesitate to ask for help very often.

[@mikekares-b8q]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 I'm not so sure footed these Days ,Hell I can't even get out of my own way, Lol and we have a lot of upkeep on this property we own . Good luck to you and your projects From Sweet Owen Valley in South Central Indiana .

[@oggiesfunnyanimalvideos2021]

Great idea and great video. I was contemplating buying a composting toilet but I may do this. Thanks again.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Oggie Thanks for the kind words and I wish you success if you choose to go this route

[@GrabLifeByDaPoosy]

Look into Cabin Obsession septic tank treatment. It's affordable and offers protection for about 2 bucks per month by flushing a packet. It is all natural with billions of bacteria inside that break everything down to keep things flowing. We have a similar setup like the one in this video and haven't had any problems.

[@jimellis594]

My dad made the similar system plus he used a pack of yeast every month . Cheap grocery kind of yeast . Worked well breaking down all the shight.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Jim! Several folks have suggested using yeast, I will look into that. Barry

[@BillAllor]

Nice Job Barry, excellent!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Bill!

[@mikekares-b8q]

Nice Job Barry very informative . You know what I tell people I can do everything I used to be able to do just not as fast . from an Old Man

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you very much!

[@kayakeraltamaha5720]

Yep... I was working on a project, but started wandering and looking for a tool that I couldn't remember where'd I'd left. Found the tool I was looking for a week ago, and caught myself working on a prior project ; )

[@markdoell1834]

Could always add a little common cement to the backfill to lessen the cave in effect.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Mark Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. As you could see in the video my backfill compaction was pretty lame. Actually there was no compaction at all. The reason for this was mostly because I was tired but also I knew I was going to be right back in the are with the track hoe to dig tie ins etc. Not much of an excuse but the truth. Add cement powder is a great asset when the soil is wet. I had good soil just too much lazy. Thanks Barry

[@saltybildo9448]

Plumber here ,nice work daddio 👍

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Salty, a compliment on a plumbing project from a real plumber carries more weight than most. Thanks for watching and thanks for your comments. Barry

[@kirkpowell6161]

great job Mr Barry!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Kirk!

[@yahhismajestyshorses518]

We did a single barrel system in our dog kennel to easy clean. We just hosed it down every day and the put the cap back on. A 12’ leach field was perfect.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks for watching and thanks for sharing your experience. Barry

[@mikejohns3104]

I commend you for your hard work and ingenuity Sir.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Mike! Kind words always appreciated.

[@xusmico187]

great work. how do you avoid the state inspectors"?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed. I don’t believe there would be a state inspector that would have such authority, I believe that would be a county inspector. But anyway, we don’t have an address, no occupancy permit, it is not a residence or a commercial property, there are no bedrooms, we have no neighbors, and my fingers are crossed.

[@SteveSwitzer504]

“On a scale of 1 to 10, it’s pretty fricken hot”. LMAO 🤣🤣🤣

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks for letting me know at least someone appreciates my hummer .

[@kvhvtke1935]

I live in Oklahoma we've done this many times put lateral line off a couple of Tanks and most the time you never have to worry about them again there was one that we had to go back and it was a nasty job and we had to clean the tank out with the oilfield mud pump but now I have another suggestion we live on the reservation and they put aerobic systems in instead of septic tanks and it's three tanks like what you have the first tank they put a bubbler in the bottom of it and they have a pump hooked to it and all it does is shoot air through there and it breaks up the toilet paper and all the manure is steady bubbles the second tank is just in case anything gets by the third tank they have a pump in it and or pump went out and we went to Harbor Freight and got a sub pump and put in one and hook black pipe and sprinkler heads we only have two sprinkler heads and when it fills up with water to that certain point it sprinkles out into the weeds and you never really even smell it you can pour some bleach in it once in awhile the bubble play in the bottom of the first Barrel is the big trick it breaks everything up to the point that it will go right out the sprinkler system Google it look at Aerobic System septic tanks but what you did will last you the rest of your life good job

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

KV Thank you for watching, thank you for the compliment, and thank you for the information. I considered going with aerobic before I started but was attracted to the system with no moving parts. If I am wrong we might switch. Barry

[@bobearl7859]

Wish I could do that here in Michigan but that would get you one heck of a big fine

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Our laws often are written for the 99.99 percent but the other .01 percent gets frustrated. Thanks for watching!

[@greatcondor8678]

Remember the law, out of sight, out of mind.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

I might steel that quote from you in the future!

[@damil5721]

Gravity septic as well. State demanded I install a electric pump system that would be $10k+, wasn't doing any of that. Built a Gravity septic, just cemented in a 1,000 gallon box then ran 3 pipes out to the leech field, maybe needs to be pumped or emptied once every decade and lasted well over 40+ years.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Sounds like good stuff. I am sure my little tanks will need to be pumped on day but might be after I am gone! Thanks Barry

[@WhatDadIsUpTo]

I did what you did, with the exception being, I used a garbage disposal to mascerate & pump, but Icy weather is a HUGE problem, so . . . Now, I use a composting toilet.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

I was leaning towards a composting toilet a while back but went a different direction. Whatever works is my life story. Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching. Barry

[@WhatDadIsUpTo]

@barrylukebuilds7894 You're welcome and one more thing: Cedar bedding material "covers" chicken poo oders in my hen house so well, I use the small flake in my composting toilet as well. Visitors are always aghast when they discover that the wonderful aroma is in my home, is MY TOILET !! 🤣

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

@@WhatDadIsUpToduring our bucket potty months there were always sawdust in liner. Not cedar unfortunately but mostly cypress. Helped to make a less than perfect situation a little more manageable.

[@justinstricklin7671]

i love the diy way but how do you get it clear from county codes for the diy

[@arthurmanderson4892]

Yes always beg for permission and pay $1000's of dollars to your masters in permits, licenses, and fees before doing anything on your own property, LOL!!!!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Justin Two thoughts One ; we are on our own 125 acres in a very rural corner of a very rural county in a very rural state. Things are just different here than in most parts of the country including Baton Rouge Louisiana where we live. Two ; I am not sure I have done anything that would not be up to code. To complicate the issue The codes refer to bedrooms and occupants, and we have neither. Location location location! Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@turdeaugottago114]

makin flat spots is the hard way. you can buy rubber grommets that fit round surfaces such as barrel sides. pipe makes water tight seal with grommet, no need for flanges

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Now you tell me!

[@AMO248]

a few thoughts after watching the video and reading some comments. the only time tanks are installed below the frost line is for full basements then you end up with a lift station to pump your effluent to the drain field. drain field depth(depending on the water table) may vary from state to state but is normally 36-48 inches, they evaporate water into the air through the top of the soil. seasonal septic systems freeze in cold climate areas, full time systems normally don't due to the daily flow of water through the system. septic tanks work better the longer they are, those drums are not going to provide enough space to allow for good separation of the sewage you will need to clean they frequently to keep solids out of the drain field. Also each tank should be install deeper than the 1st tank. the inlet pipe should also be higher in the tank than the outlet pipe if that the same level your asking for a plugged up pipe.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

AMO Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to reply. I know nothing of frost lines and basements so I will take your word on that stuff. Leach fields typically process the liquids through the soil downwards. That is why the perk test is so important to people. It will dictate the size of the leach field or if they are allowed to use a leach test at all. Concerning the effectiveness of our tanks it is important to realize we don’t live there. During the heat of the summer I only spent one night a week which means one flush and a little kitchen sink water(we seldom cook there). So I am going to go out on a limb and say with 100% confidence that our little system will do just fine. The tanks are set on a slope so I do not believe there will be a sediment issue in the connections. Again, time will tell. Barry

[@thananightshade]

Love the setup, id just use 2 icb totes instead. 500g for not much more effort but im a paranoid soul. I've used icb for waterers and even a brooder box, those things are strong, i can walk on top of them empty and Im a big girl.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Night Shade Thank you! I considered totes but the structural engineer in me just couldn’t get comfortable with them. To each his (her) own. Barry

[@SaveYourBrainKillTV]

​@@barrylukebuilds7894building simular for my outhouse. Seen an interesting solution for 250 gal totes. Man wire tied old carpet to the tote frame exterior, leaving average 3inch gap between plastic and carpet. Filled tank with water and filled gap between frame and carpet with concrete. 250gal plastic lined concrete tank.

[@Onelovej]

Your work looks clean and meticulous 🫡

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you for the kind words !!!

[@tomgorden3762]

I wonder if the drums could sustain the roots over time.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

The drums themselves are 100% root proof. But if there is a gap between any of the pieces parts roots will take advantage. Same with terracotta and concrete. Barry

[@johnmyers9811]

Hindsight...gets me every time. I'm in no way smarter than my future self.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

John Well said! Thanks Barry

[@allentruitt8632]

Seems like the 1st tank, on the inlet side, should've skipped the baffle. I would think that would cause back up?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Allen Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. I added the baffle to minimize water disturbance after a flush. Our scum blanket will probably be fairly thin (not much cooking so not much grease) and easily disturbed. It would take a pretty big and stiff turd to not be able to make that turn from horizontal to vertical. But anything is possible so I added a clean out port under the bathroom. Barry

[@allentruitt8632]

@barrylukebuilds7894 my concer has more to do with toilet paper getting log jammed, lol. Please do a follow up and let us know how it's panning out. Great job, brother.

[@ddouglas3687]

Don't use the macerator! Great job! I'm in a similar situation but I will have to hand dig holes! 😂 Can't wait to see the lines go in. 👍

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Douglas The little macerator pump is almost history! Thanks and I don’t envy anyone hand digging a hole like that but it has been done. Silly me, I am thinking the rest will be easy. Time will tell.

[@ddouglas3687]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 I'm really interested in what you will use for the lines themselves. I need a cheap off the shelf solution like 4" or 6" black drain pipe or something to that effect. TNX. Appreciate the video!

[@JCS1964-i7w]

Crazy thing is I live out on eastern long. Island and we are still on cesspool system out here. Basically dig a big hole in your yard put a few precast concrete rings Pitch the waste pipe to the cesspool and your done.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

As long as you have a big enough yard and no close neighbors nothing wrong with simplicity!

[@JCS1964-i7w]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 I agree 100% That system has Been working for thousands of years and plus in a grid down situation it still works. The hole is dug Let gravity do its thing One Bucket of old non drinking water and you’re good.

[@JCS1964-i7w]

Problem is Long Island is overpopulated and we actually supply our own drinking water from our aquifers. But trust me I know it works It the best system

[@danielson101]

a T pipe size works well as baffle from an old time septic pumper and installer back in the clay tile days!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Most people use tees, I am just a cheap skate!

[@brawnconstruction9785]

Great video. Did you install Baffles in all 3 barrels?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Brawn! Yes, all three. Might be a little scum I’m them also so why not try to hold it back and digest a little more.

[@saltybildo9448]

Down turn tees instead of the baffles?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

A couple of folks have brought that up. To me the goal is to prevent the incoming surge of water from a toilet flush from breaking up the scum blanket floating on top of the liquid. Baffles, tees, 90 with a vent, all do the same thing. My baffles cost a let less than Tees😏

[@saltybildo9448]

Are those matrix paint buckets a buddy of mine is a salesman for matrix, least he was 20 years ago . haven't seen em in years

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Probably a few of them mixed with the others. Matrix Drive, we have been a good customer. Thanks

[@Sunspot-19]

See what happens when you mix two parts ingenuity with one part imagination? Nicely done, Sir!!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Sunspot Thank you for the kind words! They keep the old man going.

[@Sunspot-19]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 You are most welcome! What many lack these days is the ability to be resourceful. There are some of us who are very resourceful.

[@humanityfighting4apulse378]

I’m female, but I would like to learn about the basic ideas of mechanics and engineering. Do you have any suggestions for resources to learn about this stuff? I like to learn the foundations of a topic, and build myself up from there, bc I think that if you understand the foundational ideas it makes the advanced ideas & theories easier to understand. I appreciate it if you could point me in the right direction. God bless!!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Dear Ms Humanity You have asked for a very very long list. So many ways and directions and options and opinions… I agree with learning the foundations but it’s a lot to learn without a starting point. I guess my advice is to pick a problem, preferably one you are dealing with, and start from there. In this case I had waste water to deal with so I KZbind up. I tried to separate fact from fiction. Also read up on what I could find on line. Compared that to my particular situation and abilities and pulled the trigger. You can easily do the same! Thanks Barry

[@newkidintown1000]

Looking at the video october 30, 2024. Great job i lerned something here

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

New Kid, happy you were able to get something for the video and thanks for letting me know! Barry

[@gabebailey9564]

Could you drill holes in the 3rd drum and put silt fence and river rock around it instead of doing a drain field?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Gave That would probably work depending on your soil. Just remember that the point of the leach field is not solely to get rid of the liquid but also to remove contamination. A little time spent in the rocks is a good thing. Thanks for watching! Barry

[@joycedigiovanni9719]

Great idea and good job!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Joyce, glad you enjoyed.

[@advancednutritioninc908]

Great Job! Well done! Thanks!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Wow! You are very welcome, glad you enjoyed. Barry

[@earthenergyhex]

Nice job, I plan on doing something similar to this

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you and good luck with your project!

[@joecallahan3379]

Nice build, i believe she will work.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Joe That makes at least 2 of us!

[@demonrathunter]

I love the video and you sound like the duck commander !

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Rat Hunter Thank you for the kind words and I am not sure if the comparison is a compliment or not but I will take it as the former. Barry

[@scottfoster2487]

Happy Wife means Happy Life. This should be a good long running low maintence system. I wonder if adding a solar aeroator to the system would increse the break down cycle time>

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Scott You are on target with the wife thing, truer words have never been written. As far as aeration is concerned it is not necessary and could cause issues with the anaerobic bacteria in the last tank. With addition of oxygen they could die and be sent to the leach field and clog things up. That would be a worse case scenario because the final tank should have very little food so therefore a minimum of bacteria. The leach field will have enough natural oxygen to support aerobic bacteria which will break down any pathogens and the soil will act as a final filter. I know this sounds like I know what I am talking about so maybe I do. And maybe… Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. Barry

[@MrMEmEmEmEMEMEeeeeee]

​@@barrylukebuilds7894-From my research many people are switching from anaerobic to aerobic systems following drainfield failure with good results, may want to check that out for yourself. Curious why you went to the effort of building 3 lid forms rather than one? Also, painting just about any type of oil (I've used waste motor oil and the cheapest cooking oil as well as the pricier form oil, all seem to work about the same) on the form gives a fairly easy release and seems to improve surface smoothness of the cast concrete.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Mr Me Lots of ways to skin a cat. Anaerobic systems have been around for a long long time and with the little bit of loading ours will receive I am anticipating a long and trouble free life. Nothing wrong with aerobic systems, they also can be trouble free if sized correctly. Only problem with them is that they require an air compressor to function and the anaerobic systems require nothing. I am all about nothing. I built three forms, all from trash pile lumber, because concrete work is messy and there is less waste with larger pours. And I wanted them NOW! I am not a very patient guy. Form oil does make for prettier edges. Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. Barry

[@redski88]

Nice job, Barry. Thanks for the entertainment. Excavator driver here. Turn around when you dig a hole your blade is at the back for more penetrating power

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Jeff! I just heard that from another viewer a couple of days ago. Great idea and I would never have thought of it! But now I know. Thanks for watching and thanks for the tip! Barry

[@georgebudnick1992]

To increase digging pressure, put your blade down behind you and them it has to pick more of the machines weight up while digging.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Dang, that is the best tip I have heard in a long time! Thank you Barry

[@franklee2683]

Hey Elmer: if your outlet on 3rd barrel gets clogged ( poop,dirt,wipes....etc) your system will not have an out flow and will be waterlogged. Youre going to be digging it all up in a year or two. ..

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Frankly, if an any pipe in any treatment process gets clogged it is a problem. Not sure about your concern. If there were to be a clog wouldn’t you think it would be on the inlet of the first tank prior to any anaerobic digestion? There will be a year end review of the system in a video so that you haters can either say I told you so or more likely just be quiet. Thanks for commenting, as it helps my channel.

[@randybeard6040]

Nice Job, Hopefully it will be Trouble Free...

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Randy! I am also hopeful it will be trouble free, the warranty is a little suspect.

[@wally1957]

Just curious as to what you say to the COUNTY if anything. Where I live they require septic systems, permits etc. and that's just for parking a RV on the lot or land.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

I have nothing to say to those guys.

[@wally1957]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 Are you not worried about fines or worse?

[@wally1957]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 I am only asking because I want to really know if I can get away with it also.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

@@wally1957Wally It is a complicated situation. Personally, I don’t think I have done anything wrong with the exception of not having inspections done. Lord knows I have video documentation if needed. Building regulations around the country vary tremendously. A little bit relaxed down here but personality’s are a huge variable in the world of inspectors. Neighbors are also a valuable. Also, are there wells nearby, where does the surface drainage go, how much land are you on, how big is your dwelling and how many folks are living there? Also, what is your tolerance for the unknown. If not knowing how well the system will work of if someone will show up asking questions might keep you up at night, that is a variable that should be considered. Good luck Wally and thanks for watching and thanks for your comments. Barry

[@wally1957]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 I really do appreciate your detailed answer and I wish you well.

[@carol07643]

Great how to video!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank you Carol!

[@calholli]

I would have put a few trash bags over those lids. It would keep them separated from the dirt and likely helped them keep from rusting away

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks for the tip! The lids are plastic and will not degrade under ground but the thatching rings are painted steel and will degrade over time. Plastic bags may make them last longer for sure but once the concrete caps are in place they rings are secondary.

[@LadyDewBuild]

Good work sir!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks Donnie!

[@madnomad6528]

Best job!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Best comment!

[@franklee2683]

Whaaaat????

[@Idahoprepper71]

If you turn your excavator around, so the blade is behind you, it gives you more downforce in your bucket to get through hard ground

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks IP! That was a trick I was not aware of until I posted this video. New trick for this old dog. Barry

[@Siskiyous6]

Separate gray water tanks are a sensible system

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

A good plan for certain conditions. Not right for us. Thanks Barry

[@jimbaranski4687]

According to your septic tank diagram, couldn’t you just use the bung holes in the drum lid for the input & output connections? Also, you have three drums in series. Isn’t there a chance the first drum would clog up with sediment? If so, havng three drums in series is not going to help you. Wouldn’t putting the barrels in parallel instead of series work better?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Jim Thanks for watching and thanks for talking the time to ask questions. About the connections, it is possible to put the influent pipe through the top. It would make removing the top for maintenance more difficult and the top would still have to be drilled because the bung holes are not large enough for a gravity sewer line. The effluent line would not be able to be installed in the top as there would be no way to contain the scum inside the tank. In a perfect world the tank will never fill with solids. Every molecule of waste will be broken down and turned to gas by the anaerobic bacteria. But there is no perfect world so eventually the first tank will fill with solids. When that happens it will just become a conduit to send unsettled waste to the second and I guess it could happen again and the third would become the primary and eventually the leach field becomes the receptor and clogs up and then it is a big problem. I won’t live that long. Putting the first two in parallel would double the life span of the first tank but not the first two as a whole. It would add complexity to the piping for sure. But hopefully I or my heirs will keep an eye on the system and have it pumped every 5 to ten years or so and every thing will be lovely. And it won’t be too difficult because there are no pipes in the lids!

[@PalmettoParatrooper]

Would it settle less if you watered it in when you backfill or is that not a good idea? (If you have access to the water to do so)

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Absolutely! My method of compaction was that I didn’t have a method. I wasn’t going to build on top so I just threw some dirt on top and let it be. That would never never fly on a Corp job. Maybe that’s why I did it like that, hoping one of the many inspections I had might get a little twitch is his back 😏

[@EdwardGary-p5l]

Nice project! It might have been easier to shape the pvc flange to the radius of the drum by dunking it in boiling water then bending in place. My $.02.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Edward Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. I didn’t try to bend the flanges but my guess would be that the flat profile or the drum material deformed much easier than trying to bend the three dimensional shape of the flange adapter. Don’t actually know because I never tried. My $.02. Barry

[@scooterdogg7580]

Ii know firsthand of a water tank septic still functions fine after more than a decade in the ground , they do work its not just KZbin gimmicks

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Scooterdog, best name ever! Thanks and I hope you are correct. I believe you are. How can anyone named scooterdog be wrong?

[@scooterdogg7580]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 its in memory of my dog Scooter

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

We had a Scooter. His name was Mick. Looked like a lab/pit mix. Never knew a fence or a leash, loved all people. Not so much cats and squirrels. When we weren’t around he could be found is Sam’s house helping him watch TV. Or in another house helping Cara in the kitchen. I could bring him to work, he would just hang out. Won’t be able to replace him for sure.

[@Dracos661]

Could you build a gray water system and a black water system?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

As in two separate systems? Absolutely! Often gray water can just be piped to a ditch, depending on your location. Separating gray water with reduce the volume of black water, a plus. Our total water usage is so small that I chose to just put everything together. Thanks for watching! Barry

[@TheRedneckprepper]

Nice job, same as my root cellar/ storm shelter

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thank man! Love your channel name.

[@MichaelDillin]

Great video

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Michael Thank you for watching and thank you for the kind words! Barr5y

[@JamesAlexRoorback]

How will you dig the line from the house after? Manually?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

The little trackhoe got me started but lots of shovel work was involved. But they are close so it was doable.

[@charliebelle6693]

I have 2 questions as I have a septic system and see first hand how the solids do not break down like people thing they do. First: Are you the only one using that system? Secondly: Why didn't you put an exit pipe into a gravel bed for the water run off?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Charlie Sorry the septic system is not working well for you. Should be fixable unless it is under sized. Yes, the cabin is for our personal use only. Putting an exit pipe on a leach field would certainly get rid of the liquids but they would not be treated. The treatment occurs while the liquid travels downward through the soil. Barry

[@nelsonx5326]

Very good.

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Thanks for the kind words! Barry

[@HoroRH]

Definitely much better, but "more better"? Good on ya

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Possibly much more better!! Just kidding but thanks for watching and thanks for the kind comment, no kidding!

[@Mr.SuperDuper-idk]

Wthell…the main idea behind septic is the out is lower than the IN 😂. Good one man

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

SD Thanks for watching and thanks for commenting. Actually if the tanks were installed 100% level, if a gallon goes in one end a gallon will come out the other end. I just wanted to make sure the influent line stayed clear.

[@Mr.SuperDuper-idk]

@@barrylukebuilds7894 thanks for video. I’ve got to do the exact same on new property temp RV place.

[@Crazson34]

Sheer genius!

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Sheer kindness! Thank you very much.

[@kristakaufman-y6j]

where is the 200 foot ten feet deep drain ditch ?where does it drain to ?

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

KK Not sure what you are asking.

[@robertblunt9517]

I have mine separated and all I have for a separate tank is a three foot concrete cupboard six foot long bear it all the way with no bottom

[@barrylukebuilds7894]

Robert Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment. Lots of ways to skin a cat.