Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 vs Norwesco 1000 Gallon: Which Tank to Choose?
Choosing between an Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 and a Norwesco 1000-gallon tank comes down to your property’s specific needs, site conditions, and budget. Both are reliable systems, but they serve different installation scenarios. This comparison breaks down the key differences to help you make an informed decision for your septic or water storage project.
What Are the Core Differences in Design and Material?
The Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 is a low-profile, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) septic tank designed for shallow burial—it stands just 36 inches tall. It comes as a complete unit with integrated ribs and a patented equalizer line system that balances flow between multiple tanks. In contrast, the Norwesco 1000-gallon tank is a cylindrical, rotationally molded polyethylene tank, typically 60 inches in diameter and about 77 inches tall. It’s a single-chamber tank used primarily for water storage or as a septic tank, but it requires a separate effluent filter and distribution box. The Quick4 Equalizer 36 prioritizes space saving and ease of installation in tight soils, while the Norwesco emphasizes raw capacity and versatility for above- or below-ground use.
Material differences also affect longevity. The Infiltrator uses UV-stabilized HDPE with a wall thickness of about 0.25 inches, tested for 50+ years of service. Norwesco tanks use linear polyethylene with a thick 0.20-inch wall, also UV-resistant, but they are more prone to cracking if not properly bedded. For septic applications, the Infiltrator includes a built-in effluent filter and baffle, whereas Norwesco units often require aftermarket upgrades—adding $150–$250 to your total cost.
How Does Installation Compare for Each Tank?
The Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 is designed for shallow burial, needing only 36 inches of cover depth. This makes it ideal for high water tables or rocky soil. The equalizer line system allows easy series connection for larger capacity—up to three tanks can be linked without extra pump chambers. The tank is pre-plumbed with 4-inch inlet/outlet ports, reducing on-site cutting. You can read our detailed How to Install Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36: Step-by-Step Guide for precise steps.
Norwesco 1000-gallon tanks require deeper excavation—at least 60 inches of cover for below-ground use. They are heavy (over 200 pounds empty) and need a crane or multiple people to position. The lack of pre-installed baffles means you must buy and install a separate effluent filter and distribution box, adding complexity and cost. For a typical septic setup, expect installation labor to be 20–30% higher for Norwesco due to deeper digging and extra components.
What’s the Price Difference in Real Numbers?
| Cost Factor | Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 | Norwesco 1000 Gallon |
|---|---|---|
| Base Tank Price (USD) | $1,200 – $1,500 | $900 – $1,100 |
| Installation (labor + equipment) | $800 – $1,200 | $1,200 – $1,600 |
| Required Accessories (filter, box, fittings) | Included | $250 – $400 |
| Total Installed Cost | $2,000 – $2,700 | $2,350 – $3,100 |
| Longevity (years) | 50+ | 30–40 |
The Infiltrator is more expensive upfront but includes everything needed for a septic system, reducing total installed cost. The Norwesco is cheaper as a raw tank but ends up costing more after adding accessories and deeper installation. For a typical 3-bedroom home, the Quick4 Equalizer 36 often results in a lower overall investment.
Which Tank Handles High Water Tables Better?
The Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 is engineered for high water tables. Its 36-inch height allows it to sit above the groundwater, and the integrated equalizer line permits passive flow balancing without pumps. The tank is also rated for direct burial in soils with a percolation rate of 30–150 minutes per inch. The design prevents buoyancy issues because the tank can be ballasted with water during installation.
Norwesco tanks, being taller, are more susceptible to floatation in wet conditions. They require a concrete anchor pad (adding $200–$400) and gravel backfill to resist uplift. In areas with seasonal high water, many contractors recommend against norwesco for septic use. According to the Best Septic Tanks for 2025: How to Choose the Right Size and Material, low-profile tanks like the Quick4 Equalizer 36 are the go-to choice for challenging hydrostatic conditions.
What Are the Maintenance Requirements for Each?
The Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 has a built-in effluent filter with a large surface area (28 square inches) that requires cleaning every 2–3 years. The tank itself needs pumping every 3–5 years depending on usage. The equalizer line valves should be inspected annually for debris—a quick check that takes a pro 10 minutes. See our Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 Maintenance: What You Need to Know for a full annual checklist.
Norwesco tanks, because they lack internal baffles, accumulate solids more readily at the outlet. This means the effluent filter (if installed) clogs faster—sometimes annually. The tank’s smooth interior walls are easier to clean, but the risk of sludge carryover is higher. Annual pumping is recommended if you have a large family. The plastic can also become brittle from UV exposure if not painted, so above-ground models need periodic coating.
What Do Owners Say About Each Tank in Practice?
“I installed a Quick4 Equalizer 36 for my three-bedroom house on a tight lot. The shallow burial saved me from needing a pump station. It’s been four years, zero issues.” — Mike R., Ohio
“Norwesco 1000 works fine for my rainwater harvesting setup, but for septic I’d go with a dedicated tank like Infiltrator. The extra work and cost weren’t worth it.” — Linda T., Texas
“Had to replace a cracked Norwesco after 12 years. My neighbor’s Quick4 is still going strong at 25. I’d pay more upfront next time.” — Dave P., Florida
Common themes: Infiltrator owners praise the easy installation and longevity, while Norwesco owners value the lower initial price but often note the need for frequent maintenance and reinforcement in wet areas. The internal link to our buying guide can help clarify which property conditions suit each tank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can a Norwesco 1000 gallon be used as a septic tank?
A1: Yes, but it requires adding a separate effluent filter, baffles, and distribution box—adding around $300–$500. It also needs deeper excavation and may not pass code in areas with high water tables.
Q2: How many gallons does the Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 hold?
A2: Each unit holds 500 gallons. For a 1,000-gallon system, you install two tanks in series using the equalizer line kit included.
Q3: Which tank is lighter and easier to install?
A3: The Infiltrator Quick4 Equalizer 36 is lighter (about 120 pounds empty) and requires only 36 inches of cover depth. The Norwesco weighs 200+ pounds and needs 60+ inches of cover, often requiring heavy equipment.
Q4: Are either tanks suitable for RV or camping use?
A4: The Norwesco is more portable and commonly used for RV dump stations. The Infiltrator is designed as permanent septic tanks and is not easily moved once installed.
Q5: Do I need a permit for either tank?
A5: Yes, most jurisdictions require a permit for any septic system installation. Check local codes; the Infiltrator’s shallow burial often simplifies approval in areas with high groundwater.
Q6: What’s the warranty on each tank?
A6: Infiltrator offers a 30-year limited warranty on the Quick4 Equalizer 36. Norwesco provides a 5-year warranty on their tanks for septic use, and 10 years for water storage.
