Homes Builder

What Are the Different Types of Septic Systems?

There are many types of septic systems. Let’s take a closer look at Low-pressure septic systems, Anaerobic treatment systems, and Chamber and Mound systems. These systems have their benefits and disadvantages, and it’s best to understand them before hiring a professional. Below are some basic facts about each type of system. Once you know them, you can better decide which method best suits your needs and budget. If you’re from Texas, you should also learn more about the types of septic systems in texas.

Low-pressure septic systems

A low-pressure septic system is one of the easiest ways to keep your drain field clean. These types of systems pump wastewater into the soil and purify it. Low-pressure systems are the most affordable option for cleaning drain fields. They consist of three parts: a pump tank and a distribution system. The distribution system is a series of pipes with holes punched into them that are installed in 6 to 12-inch ditches. Once the wastewater enters the trench, it seeps into the soil.

Eventually, when a low-pressure septic system fails, untreated sewage backs up into the drain field and can reach groundwater, surface water, or marine waters. The sewage is filled with pathogens and other dangerous contaminants, which can cause health problems and make the water a hazard for swimming, shellfish harvesting, and other outdoor activities. As a result, a low-pressure system will eventually fail, and your system will need to be replaced.

Anaerobic treatment systems

You can install an aerobic septic system that traditional septic systems cannot reach. Because of its flexible design, it is also suitable for a wide range of soil types. In addition, this system requires less space than a conventional septic tank system. Anaerobic treatment systems for septic systems do require more frequent pumping. However, they have numerous advantages and require less maintenance. You can also use anaerobic treatment systems in areas with high groundwater.

Maintaining an aerobic septic system is one of the most critical factors for proper operation. Under DEQ rules, the manufacturer must provide the homeowner with a two-year initial service policy and sign a maintenance agreement with the owner. After two years, however, this service policy is optional. The initial service policy includes provisions for four inspections and an optional maintenance agreement. You may have to replace your system if these provisions are not followed.

Chamber systems

Chamber septic systems are a viable option in areas where the groundwater table is high or where the ground is saturated with water. The chambers are interconnected, and the earth is piled around them. Wastewater is transported through pipes to the rooms and comes into contact with the soil, where microbes digest the waste. As a result, the wastewater is treated in a process called biodegradation.

The wastewater from a septic system is treated in a two-chamber system. The first chamber is approximately twice as large as the second chamber, where most of the waste solids settle. Both rooms have currents flowing in them. The second chamber is smaller, allowing the wastewater to pass through more slowly. The third chamber is for gray water. During the final stage, wastewater flows into a septic tank via gravity or pumps from home.

Mound systems

Septic systems with mounds are popular, but they come with some disadvantages. A mound requires particular soil and must be kept away from human traffic, making it unusable in heavy rains. Additionally, mounds are more complicated and expensive than other septic systems. This is why it’s crucial to have a professional inspect the system once a year.

Typical septic systems require at least 36 inches of soil below the drain field. In Ohio, for example, 53 percent of soils have limiting layers between 12 and 36 inches deep. In these cases, mound septic systems treat wastewater and absorb it into the ground. However, you cannot use the mound system if the limiting layer is shallower than 36 inches. Because of this, older buildings with mound septic systems may still need a separate waste container for toilet paper and tissue.