There are many different types of septic systems. Some include pressure distribution, sand filter, mound, gravity and aerobic. It is important to consult with your septic system installer about which system is the best fit for your situation.
Pressure Distribution
Pressure distribution systems are used when there is not enough soil depth to accommodate gravity-based systems. This system has a pump that distributes wastewater evenly throughout the drainage field. The pump tank holds wastewater until a certain point before it releases it into the drainage field.
Sand Filter
Sand filter systems are one of the more common types of septic systems. This system uses sand between the pump tank and the drainage field. The sand is used to treat the wastewater before it enters the field. If you live in an area with shallow soil, this is the system you would need.
Mound
The mound design is also used when the soil isn’t deep enough for a traditional system. These types of septic systems have a sand-filled mound raised over the natural soil above a drainage field. The wastewater is treated as it travels through the sand and into the natural soil.
Gravity
This is one of the first types of septic systems. Gravity is used to drain wastewater from the tank into a series of trenches. Because this system uses gravity, the drainfield must be below the level of the septic tank. The bottom of the trenches must be three or four feet above the water table. This soil above the water table is used to treat the wastewater before it returns to the environment.
Aerobic
This system is equipped with a watertight tank that has an aeration chamber. Waste is broken-down by bacteria in the aeration chamber. This system is capable of producing cleaner wastewater.
Posted on behalf of Chuck Seagraves, Seagraves Plumbing
