DIY Septic System FAQ


I don’t know anything about plumbing or septic systems, can I install and use the DIY Septic System?


Yes, even if you don't have any experience with plumbing or septic systems you can install and use my system.

The DIY Septic System is easy to install and includes fully illustrated, step-by-step instructions.

Every single step is detailed with photos, easy-to-read diagrams, and labeled illustrations.





Do you need any heavy equipment or expensive tools to install the DIY Septic System?


No, the only thing you need to build and install the DIY Septic System are some basic hand tools.

Unlike with other septic systems, you won't have to rent any heavy equipment, such as a backhoe or excavator to install the system.

Most of the time the DIY Septic System can be installed in just a few days, even if you're working by yourself.





Can the DIY Septic System be installed at (insert location).


This is the second question I’m asked the most, and the answer is that the system can be installed in, and has been installed in, many different locations all over the world.

In fact, the DIY Septic System has been installed in countries on nearly every continent.

Some of the most common locations include:

  • Off Grid Sites

  • RVs

  • Traditional Homes

  • Mobile Homes

  • Beach Campsites

  • Tiny Houses

  • Beach Cabins

  • Lake Houses

  • Mountain Cabins
  • Campers

  • Detached Garages

  • Lake Cabins

  • Lake Campsites

  • Hunting Lodges

  • Work Shops

  • Campsites

  • Earth-Sheltered Homes

  • Yurts




Can the DIY Septic System be installed at a “normal” house?


Yes, the system can be installed for use in traditional homes.

Although my system is perfect for camping sites, RVs, etc. many people also use the system to service their home.

In fact, my wife and I have been using the system in our current home for over 8 years.





Will this system work at an off grid site?


The system works great for off grid sites.

In fact, the main reason I started using my DIY Septic System was because I was living at an off-grid site.

My system is perfect for an off grid home/site. I talk more about this here.





Most homemade septic systems are only good for 1 toilet - Is this also true for the DIY Septic System?


Other “homemade” systems can only handle one toilet because the systems are either designed poorly, or they are simply too small.

My system is designed to service:
  • Toilets

  • Sinks

  • Showers

  • Kitchens

  • Laundry Rooms

My system can basically handle a fully-equipped house, but it's also the most compact and inexpensive DIY system available.

I discuss this more here.





What makes your system better than all of the other “homemade” systems available online?


First, there really are no other DIY systems available.

What you will find are bits and pieces of incomplete plans, pieces of information in comment sections and forum posts, and short videos that won’t tell you anything.

None of these resources will tell you how to build a DIY system.

You might find a couple of articles that go into a bit more detail, but again you won’t find complete plans.

Every “homemade” system I’ve reviewed has major design flaws, the main one being the system is incomplete as are the “plans”.

I’ve reviewed dozens of other DIY systems, and the systems are either missing important components that every septic system needs, or they are not designed properly.

Not only that, but the instructions are never complete, with many important steps completely missing.

Also, the systems I’ve reviewed use way too much unnecessary material, such as gravel, that will cost you a lot of money.

And most importantly, I’ve had more than 30 years to make my DIY System the most compact, easy-to-install, and least expensive “homemade” system available.

There is no other system as complete as the DIY Septic System.





How does your system compare to the “WikiHow Small Septic System”?


Many people ask me about that system because I guess it's one of the first websites that pops up in the search engines.

First of all, that system has FOUR major design flaws, including the types of “tanks” used in the design, as well as the components that are used (pipes, cement, etc.)

The plans are also incomplete and don’t discuss very important details that you must know before installing a “homemade” septic system.

That system should also only be used to service a single toilet.

Again, my DIY Septic System can service a fully-equipped home.

The WikiHow system also wastes a lot of material and will cost you 10 times more $$$ than my system.

In fact, the gravel alone in that design would cost you around $800-$900, which is way more expensive than the TOTAL cost of my DIY System.

Lastly, because of the major design flaws, that system would most likely fail in a short period of time.

I talk more about why this system would probably fail in this article.

My DIY Septic System has been installed in hundreds of locations and none of the systems have EVER failed.





How durable is the DIY Septic System?


My system is designed to last for many years. I built the first DIY Septic System over 30 years ago and it is still working today.

Since then, I’ve made many improvements to the design to make it as compact, inexpensive, and durable as possible.

If you follow my guidelines, the DIY Septic System will probably last longer than you.





Can I contact you if I have any questions about the system?


Of course! I really like helping people have a dependable and durable septic system.

I'm always available and you can contact me here.





What others have said about the DIY Septic System:


Five Star Review Going strong for over a year...
By tom d on December 12,
Verified Purchase
I actually built a system using another guide I found on the internet and the system didn’t last 6 months. Put this one in and it’s been going strong for over a year now with no problems. I’m running a toilet, a shower and one sink into this system every day and it has worked really well. The build and install was also much easier than I expected. I don’t think there will be any problems because I havent had any yet. I’m very satisfied with this system.
5 people found this helpful


Five Star Review Never thought I’d have the luxury of having an indoor shower
By JR on October 26,
Verified Purchase
I was looking for a small septic system for one toilet - this system is so much better because it can handle a lot more than just toilet. Once the system was installed I also installed two additional sinks and a shower. The shower setup that the author outlines in the book is alos very nice and that’s what I went with. It’s so nice to have a proper indoor shower instead of washing outside like I’d been doing. I never thought I’d be able to even have a sink much less a shower. As a bonus I was able to get everything off of Amazon.
4 people found this helpful




Home FAQ Articles













Three Simple Steps to Having Your Own DIY Septic System Guide

Enter your information to see the first steps to having your own DIY Septic System. Check all of your email folders to make sure you get the info.

I hate spam just as much as you, and I will never share your name or email.