Sustainable green architecture in Kenya is becoming extremely important, given the great need to take better care of the environment. It is also important when it comes to the cost of amenities such as power and water.

The biodigester septic tank is a sewerage treatment system or an on-site sanitation system that  can be used both in residential and commercial properties. The biodigester septic tank is used to treat sewer water and the treated water can then be used for other functions like watering gardens, irrigation flushing toilets and so on.

This technology has been in use for centuries in Europe and it is becoming extremely popular in Kenya.

The Science Behind The Biodigester Septic Tank

The sanitation system works through a process called Bacterial Biodegredation. This process completely breaks down organic matter or black water into gases and water. The gases produced are carbon dioxide, methane and nitrogen.

It takes just about 2 weeks for the breakdown of matter to be complete, ensuring that only water is discharged out of the tank. This is made possible by the combined action of both aerobic and anaerobic bacterias present in the tank. The bacterias are actually placed on the inside of the tank as it is being manufactured.

The treated water can then be taken to a soaking area or other place where it can be recycled for other uses. The carbon dioxide and the methane gas produced are simply released into the atmosphere while the nitrogen produced simply dissolves in the water. This nitrogen-rich water is great for watering gardens and irrigation.

Biodigester Septic Tanks

Biodigester Septic Tanks

The Main Advantages of using the Biodigester Septic Tank

When it comes to sustainable green architecture in Kenya, many people are turned away by the cost. While the initial cost of installation for most solutions seems high, the long term cost benefits and other benefits are amazing.

Here are some of the benefits of investing in this on-site sanitation system.

1.     Cost Friendly Installation

The biodigester septic tank is actually cheaper to install than the cost of constructing a traditional septic tank and the accompanying soak pit. On the site, one needs to excavate a hole that is 1.1 meters deep and some trenches. The inspection chambers or manholes required are also few.

The system occupies much less space and can be used where space is an issue.

Traditional septic tanks require a much deeper hole and that comes with high costs of excavation. Excavation is also very tricky and expensive in areas that have  a lot of rocks, swampy areas or areas with high water tables as well as areas that have very loose soil.

2.     Requires no Exhausting

Unlike traditional septic tanks, the biodigester does not need exhausting. This alone makes the biodigester the best option for dealing with sewer.

Biodigester Septic Tank

Biodigester Septic Tank

Exhausting a septic tank is the process of draining it when it is full. This process is undertaken after a number of years depending on the size of the septic tank.

The exhausting process is obviously an added expense, not to mention how messy and potentially hazardous it can be.

3.     Smell Free

This on-site sewer system does not emit any smell whatsoever.

Septic tanks emit a lot of bad smell because gases are released into the atmosphere. Imagine having to live with a foul smell which gets worse with every passing year?

4.     Safe on the Environment

Biodigester Septic Tank

Biodigester Septic Tank

The biodigester enhances the environment in many ways, starting  with the fact that it does not emit any smell.

The water that is produced is usually soaked back  into the ground and therefore increases  the amount of water found underground. The same water, which  is rich in nitrogen and other nutrients can also be used for irrigation or watering gardens. This enhances the fertility of the soil.

5.     Solid Structure and Design

The system is built out of reinforced concrete that is already enzymed, giving it structural strength that is superior to any other material such as cement, plastic, brick or mortar.

Biodigester Septic Tank

Biodigester Septic Tank

It can easily withstand pressure and stress making it extremely reliable. The tank is small and cylindrical and thus, able to withstand pressure from the soil. This cylindrical design with a continuous wall ensures that stress is uniformly distributed, unlike rectangular designs where pressure is exerted on corners and joints.

6.     Warranty

The on-site sewer system comes with a 5 year post installation warranty from the manufacturer which covers manufacturer’s defects.

7.     Approved by NEMA

Biodigester Septic Tank

Biodigester Septic Tank

The biodigester has been fully approved and recommended by both NEMA (National Environmental Management Authority) and the Ministry of Water an Irrigation for dealing with commercial and domestic waste water in Kenya. The biodigester has been in use in Kenya for over 17 years without any major issues.

 Different Types of The Biodigester Septic Tank

There are 3 different types of biodigester septic tanks available, based on size.

  • The Standard Biodigester – This is the smallest size and it can handle between 18-21 people (continuous users). This is the best size for residential properties and small commercial establishments.
  • The Jumbo Biodigester – The jumbo biodigester can easily handle 100 people (continuous users) and is therefore ideal for mid-size establishments, apartment blocks, hotels, farms and small gated communities.
  • The Jumbo Deluxe Biodigester – This is the biggest size available and it can handle up to 400 continuous users. This is great for much bigger establishments, estates, shopping malls, hotels, schools, hospitals and blocks of flats.

Apart from these 3 standard sizes, different sizes can be created based on the need and the size of the project. Custom designs can also be created for different clients.

The biodigester septic tank offers the best solution for residential and commercial on-site sanitation system. This solution makes sustainable green architecture in Kenya possible.

Get in touch with us by calling 0721411606 or through our contact us page for more information on this solution.