The first consideration when choosing a tank is size. They typically start out at 300 gallons and go all the way up to 5,000. A single person living alone is probably ok with a 300-gallon tank. Families with three people tend to need around 1,000 gallons, but this will also vary based on the family’s habits and how often guests are present. Naturally, large families, as well as commercial and industrial spaces, will need larger tanks. An experienced technician can help you decide what size is best for your needs.

There are various materials to choose from, including concrete, steel, fiberglass, and plastic. Your local codes will determine what’s allowable by law. Your habits, the soil, and the water may also preclude some of the options. Most discussions these days come down to concrete vs. fiberglass.