Five Types of Septic System Filters

A septic system is a natural way to treat wastewater, separate the solids and allow the treated water to return to the groundwater system. If you’re new to septic systems, you might not realize that there are several ways to filter the water after the solids have been separated. Learning more about septic systems will help you choose the best septic system filter for your Lancaster, NY home or business.

Here is an overview of the most common septic system filtration types.

• Conventional: Conventional systems are the most common type of household septic systems, and they may be suitable for small business buildings as well. This type of system uses a septic tank and a leach field (also known as a drain field). Wastewater is separated from the solids and pumped from the septic tank to underground trenches. These are usually filled with stone or gravel, which filters the wastewater until it reaches the soil below. The soil completes the treatment, and the wastewater is returned to the groundwater system.
• Chamber system: Chamber systems work a little differently. They use a series of connected chambers, which are filled with soil. Pipes deliver wastewater to the chambers, where the soil microbes can treat the water. Chamber systems are best used in areas with a high groundwater table, or in households that get variable levels of use (such as vacation homes).
• Drip distribution: A drip distribution system requires a second “dose” tank, after the septic tank, to control how much effluent is sent out into the ground. The lateral pipes are buried into the top six to 12 inches of soil, which negates the need for a large mound of soil. However, this type of system needs to use electricity, which increases the operating and maintenance cost.
• Mound system: If you live in an area with shallow bedrock and a high water table, a mound system might be right for you. This type of system filters water through a large mound of gravel, sand and soil before it reaches the groundwater system. This type of system requires a lot of space, so it may not be suitable for smaller plots of land. (No one wants their septic mound to be located right outside their home or business.)
• Recirculating sand filter: This type of filter can be installed above or below ground. Recirculating sand filter systems send effluent through the septic tank, then into the pump chamber. From there, it’s sent into the sand filter, which is usually concrete or PVC lined. The wastewater filters through the sand and empties into the leach field. They’re more expensive than conventional systems, but are good for homes near bodies of water and/or those with high water tables.

As you can see, choosing the right type of septic filter depends on your individual plot of land’s characteristics. If you need help choosing between septic system filters, get in touch with the experts at Macken Services, Inc. We’d be glad to put our half-century of experience to work for you!

Categorised in: Septic Systems

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