What Are the Different Types of Septic Systems?

December 31, 2021 Published by Leave your thoughts

There are many different kinds of septic systems that homeowners and business owners can choose from. That’s because not everyone’s situation is the same. The size of the household or business, site slope, proximity to water, local regulations and climate can all impact what kind of system you choose.

Let’s take a look at several popular types of systems.

Conventional septic systems

This water treatment system includes a septic tank along with a trench or drain field. Conventional systems are a good fit for single-family homes and small businesses.

The drain field is typically made with gravel or stone. Effluent is distributed via the septic tank to a trench made out of gravel or stone. Then a geofabric tops the trench to prevent sand, dirt and any other contaminants from entering. Effluent moves through the stone and is then treated via microbes when it reaches the soil below the trench.

Septic tanks

These are watertight tanks buried underground that treat partially-raw wastewater. Solids settle on the bottom of the tank, and greases float to the top. The solids remain in the tank while wastewater is sent to the drain field to be treated and dispersed. Many different systems will use septic tanks.

Drip distribution systems

This type of system uses effluent dispersal across different drain fields. The drip laterals are placed in 6 to 12 inches of soil, meaning that no large mound of soil is necessary; however, a disadvantage of drip distribution is that the system requires a large second tank after the septic tank to allow for timed delivery of wastewater to the drip absorption area. This requires additional components for the system such as electrical power.

Chamber system

For more than three decades, many homeowners and business owners have used this type of septic system that does not require a gravel trench. The chamber system is best suited to regions with high groundwater tables or areas where gravel is hard to find. A series of connected chambers are filled with soil; then pipes bring in wastewater from the septic tank into the chambers. Wastewater makes contact with the soil, and microbes treat the effluent.

Mound systems

In areas where there’s shallow soil depth, shallow bedrock and high groundwater, mound systems are utilized. A sand mound contains a drain field trench. Effluent flows from the septic tank to a pump chamber and is pumped into the mound in set doses. The effluent is treated when it’s discharged into the trench; it filters through the sand and then disperses into the soil. These systems require substantial space and periodic maintenance.

These are just some of the septic system types available. Others include aerobic treatment units and recirculating sand filter systems.

No matter what type of septic system you’re looking for, trust the pros from Macken Services, Inc. to help. We do it all—from repair of septic tanks to installation, maintenance and inspections. We’re a family-owned and -operated business that’s been around for more than five decades. Contact us today to set up your first appointment.

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