Septic Systems Simplified: Different types to Best Fit for Your Needs
Septic systems are key for homes without city sewer systems. They come in many types, each with its own design and benefits. It’s important to know about these systems to pick the best one for your place. This article will cover the main types of septic systems. You’ll learn about their features, good points, and downsides by the end.
Key Takeaways
- There are many septic system types, each with unique traits and best for different places.
- Traditional septic systems are a budget-friendly option but need a lot of digging for replacement.
- Chamber septic systems can handle more waste and might cost less to install.
- Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) are great at breaking down waste but can be pricier.
- Alternative systems like sand mounds and evapotranspiration beds work well on tough soil.
Basic Septic Systems
Traditional Septic Systems
Traditional septic systems are the most common and cost-effective type. They have a septic tank and a drain field, also known as a leach field. The septic tank lets solids settle and scum float. The clear liquid then goes into the drain field, where it spreads through the soil.
These systems work well on flat land with good soil and a low water table. They are easy to set up and keep up, needing only regular pump-outs.
Chamber Septic Systems
Chamber septic systems are a type of traditional septic system. They use a septic tank for the first treatment step. But, they have plastic leaching chambers in the drain field instead of gravel and pipes.
The chambers have an open bottom for better treatment and less need for gravel. This can make them cheaper to install. They’re great for areas with hard soil or a lot of water, handling more wastewater easily. Yet, they need full digging for replacement.
“Septic tanks have been in use for over 100 years and are a preferred method of private sewage disposal in a large percentage of North America.”
Advanced Secondary Treatment Systems
Homeowners looking for a better way to treat wastewater might want to consider aerobic treatment units (ATUs). These units use bacteria to clean wastewater better than old septic systems. They’re great for places with tough wastewater rules or hard soil.
Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)
ATUs have a special chamber that helps aerobic bacteria grow. These bacteria are better at breaking down waste than the ones in regular septic tanks. This means the treated water is cleaner and safe for the environment or even for watering plants.
ATUs need electricity to work but they take up less space than old systems. They’re good for small areas. But, they do need more upkeep, like changing filters and parts, to work right.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Improved Wastewater Treatment | ATUs use aerobic bacteria to break down waste better, making the water cleaner. |
| Compact Design | ATUs are smaller than old septic systems, perfect for small spaces. |
| Stricter Effluent Standards | ATUs are good for places with strict wastewater rules. |
| Maintenance Requirements | ATUs need more upkeep, like changing filters and parts, to work well. |
Knowing the good and bad about aerobic treatment units helps homeowners pick the right septic system for their needs.
Understanding the Different Types of Septic Systems
Choosing the right septic system is key for your property. You need to think about your land size, soil, water table depth, and local rules. Knowing the pros and cons of each type helps you pick the best one for your home or business.
Traditional or conventional septic systems are common. They work well on flat lands with good drainage. They need at least 3 feet of suitable soil under the drain field.
Chamber septic systems are also popular. They are more efficient and easier to install than traditional ones.
If your land is hard to work with or has poor soil, consider advanced systems. Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) and sand mounds might be better. ATUs use bacteria to treat wastewater well, great for small properties or those near water. Sand mound systems are for sites with high water tables or bad soil. They involve building a mound with sand, gravel, and soil layers.
| Septic System Type | Suitable Soil Conditions | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional/Conventional | Flat, well-drained sites with at least 3 feet of native suitable soil | Basic, widely-used design |
| Chamber | Adaptable to various soil conditions | Improved efficiency, easier installation |
| Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) | Minimum of 1-1.5 feet of native suitable soil | Uses aerobic bacteria for enhanced wastewater treatment |
| Sand Mound | High groundwater tables or unsuitable soils, with at least 1-2 feet of native suitable soil | Requires construction of a mound with sand, gravel, and topsoil layers |
It’s smart to talk to a pro and check local rules when picking a septic system. This ensures it fits your property well and works right. Knowing about the different types and their features helps you choose the best one for your needs.
Alternative Septic Systems
Sand Mound Systems
Traditional septic systems are common, but there are other options too. Sand mound systems are great for tough soil or high water tables. They sit above ground.
These systems use special sand to make a raised drainfield. This sand helps clean the wastewater before it goes back into nature. It’s a good choice for places with hard-to-drain soil or lots of groundwater.
But, sand mound systems have some downsides. They take up more space and need a lot of special sand. This makes them more expensive and can harm the environment. They also might not look as nice as systems buried underground.
Still, sand mound systems can work well for certain homes. They’re a good septic system design for tricky sites. Knowing the pros and cons helps you pick the best option for your home.
“Sand mound systems provide a viable solution for properties with limited soil permeability or high water tables, but they require careful planning and installation to ensure long-term functionality.”
Maintenance and Replacement
Keeping your septic system in good shape is key for its long life. You should get your septic tank cleaned every 3 to 5 years. This removes sludge and scum, preventing blockages and keeping it working right. Also, don’t flush things you can’t break down or pour harsh chemicals down the drain. They can mess up the system.
Eventually, your septic system will need to be replaced, after 20 to 50 years. Replacing it is a big job that costs a lot. So, taking good care of your septic system can help it last longer.
Doing regular septic tank cleanings and staying away from harmful stuff helps your septic system stay healthy. But, when it’s time for a new one, be ready for a big expense. It’s important for your home’s wastewater to be treated and disposed of correctly.