Let’s explore the fascinating world of septic systems and discover the various types available to meet your wastewater needs. From conventional to aerobic, gravity to mound, there is a wide range of options that cater to different property sizes and soil conditions. Join us on this informative journey as we uncover the diverse range of septic systems and help you determine the best fit for your home or business. Get ready to gain a deeper understanding of the workings behind these essential sanitation solutions!
Types of Septic Systems
Septic systems play a vital role in managing household wastewater. They are commonly used in areas where centralized sewer systems are not available. Understanding the different types of septic systems will help you make an informed decision about which one is best for your property.
This image is property of theoriginalplumber.com.
Conventional Systems
Conventional septic systems are the most common type found in residential properties. They consist of various components that work together to treat and dispose of wastewater effectively.
Gravity Systems
Gravity systems utilize the force of gravity to move wastewater from your home to the septic tank. The septic tank is buried in the ground and is responsible for separating solid waste from the liquid. Once the liquid is separated, it flows into the drainfield, where it is naturally filtered by the soil.
Description
Gravity systems rely on the natural slope of the land to carry wastewater from the home to the septic tank and drainfield. The system does not require any mechanical or electric components, making it simple and cost-effective.
Design and Installation
When designing a gravity system, the topography of the property is an essential consideration. The slope must be sufficient to allow wastewater to flow freely from the house to the septic tank. The size of the tank and drainfield will depend on the wastewater volume and soil conditions.
Operation and Maintenance
Gravity systems require minimal maintenance. Regular inspections and pumping of the septic tank every 3-5 years are necessary to prevent a buildup of solids, which can lead to system failure.
This image is property of i0.wp.com.
Pressure Distribution Systems
Pressure distribution systems use a pump to evenly distribute wastewater throughout the drainfield. This allows for more efficient and even dispersal of wastewater, resulting in better treatment.
Description
In a pressure distribution system, a pump is placed in the septic tank to move wastewater to the drainfield through a network of pipes. The pump ensures that the wastewater is evenly distributed to prevent overloading of any specific area of the drainfield.
Design and Installation
The design of a pressure distribution system requires careful calculations to determine the appropriate pump size and pipe network. The drainfield must be adequately sized to handle the increased volume of wastewater due to the pump’s added pressure.
Operation and Maintenance
The pump in a pressure distribution system needs regular maintenance to ensure proper operation. The septic tank should be pumped every 3-5 years, and the pump and pressure distribution system should be inspected regularly for any issues.
Sand Filter Systems
Sand filter systems use a layer of sand to treat and filter wastewater before it is dispersed into the soil. This type of system is commonly used in areas with high water tables or poor soil conditions.
Description
Sand filter systems consist of a septic tank, a pump chamber, and a sand filter bed. The sand filter bed allows for the treatment and filtration of wastewater before it is released into the soil.
Design and Installation
The design of a sand filter system requires careful consideration of the soil conditions and the depth of the water table. The size of the sand filter bed is determined based on the volume of wastewater and the hydraulic loading rate.
Operation and Maintenance
Sand filter systems require periodic maintenance to ensure proper function. Regular inspection, pump chamber cleaning, and sand replacement may be necessary to maintain optimal performance.
This image is property of www.homestratosphere.com.
Mound Systems
Mound systems are used when the soil conditions are not suitable for traditional drainfields. They involve raising the drainfield above the natural soil surface using fill material.
Description
Mound systems consist of a septic tank, a pump chamber, and an elevated drainfield. The fill material, such as sand, is used to raise the drainfield above the natural soil surface to allow for proper wastewater treatment and dispersal.
Design and Installation
Designing a mound system requires careful consideration of the soil conditions, groundwater level, and the depth to bedrock. The fill material must be selected based on its ability to treat wastewater effectively.
Operation and Maintenance
Mound systems need regular maintenance to prevent clogging of the elevated drainfield. The septic tank should be pumped every 3-5 years, and inspections of the pump chamber and distribution system should be conducted regularly.
Alternative Systems
Alternative septic systems are designed to overcome specific challenges presented by the property’s soil conditions, topography, or other factors that make conventional systems impractical.
This image is property of images.squarespace-cdn.com.
Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)
Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) are specialized systems that introduce oxygen into the wastewater to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria. These bacteria break down and treat the wastewater more effectively than conventional systems.
Description
ATUs consist of a septic tank and a separate chamber where the aerobic treatment takes place. The additional oxygen supply allows for faster and more efficient wastewater treatment.
Design and Installation
The design of an ATU requires careful consideration of the oxygen supply and ensuring proper aeration. The size of the system will depend on the wastewater volume and the desired treatment efficiency.
Operation and Maintenance
ATUs require regular maintenance, such as checking and cleaning the air diffusers, monitoring the oxygen levels, and inspecting the system for any issues. The septic tank should be pumped every 3-5 years to remove accumulated solids.
Drip Dispersal Systems
Drip dispersal systems distribute wastewater directly to the soil through a network of small, individually controlled drip emitters. This allows for precise and controlled dispersal of effluent.
Description
Drip dispersal systems use a pump to send wastewater to the drip emitters placed in the soil. The effluent is released in small, measured doses, reducing the risk of overloading the soil and promoting efficient treatment.
Design and Installation
Designing a drip dispersal system involves determining the appropriate number and spacing of drip emitters based on the soil’s hydraulic conductivity and the volume of wastewater. The pump and control system must be properly sized to ensure even distribution.
Operation and Maintenance
Drip dispersal systems require periodic maintenance to ensure the emitters are functioning correctly. The pump and control system should be inspected regularly, and the septic tank should be pumped as needed.
This image is property of theoriginalplumber.com.
Plastic Media Filters
Plastic media filters use a combination of plastic media and a bed of sand to treat and filter wastewater. They are designed to provide enhanced treatment capabilities compared to conventional systems.
Description
Plastic media filters consist of a septic tank followed by a filter bed with layers of plastic media and sand. The plastic media increases the surface area for the growth of bacteria, allowing for better treatment of the wastewater.
Design and Installation
Designing a plastic media filter system requires careful consideration of the media and sand bed depths, as well as the sizing of the septic tank. The system must be designed to ensure adequate contact time for treatment.
Operation and Maintenance
Plastic media filters require regular maintenance to clean and replace the media as needed. The septic tank should be pumped every 3-5 years to remove accumulated solids, and the system should be inspected for any issues.
