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Do not fear your Septic System! We take the guess work out of any septic issues you may be experiencing! Learn how your system works!

Steven Anderson • June 27, 2023

New Septic System installations

A basic septic system

is a self-contained wastewater treatment system commonly used in areas where centralized sewage systems are not available. It consists of three main components: the septic tank, drainfield (also known as leach field or absorption field), and soil.

1. Septic Tank: This underground tank is typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic and is responsible for holding and treating wastewater from the household. The tank receives wastewater from toilets, sinks, showers, and other household drains. Inside the tank, solid waste settles to the bottom as sludge, while lighter materials such as oils and fats form a scum layer on top. Bacteria in the tank help break down the organic matter. Treated liquid effluent, which is relatively free of solids, flows out of the tank.

2. Drainfield: The drainfield is a network of perforated pipes or chambers buried in the soil. The liquid effluent from the septic tank is distributed into the drainfield through these perforations. The drainfield allows the effluent to gradually percolate into the soil, where further treatment takes place through natural biological processes. The soil acts as a filter, removing harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants before the effluent reaches the groundwater.

3. Soil: The soil beneath the drainfield provides additional treatment by acting as a natural filter and absorbing and dispersing the effluent. It helps in further breaking down and treating the remaining contaminants, preventing them from reaching the groundwater. The type of soil, its permeability, and the water table depth are factors that influence the efficiency of the soil treatment process.

Regular maintenance, such as periodic pumping of the septic tank and avoiding the introduction of non-biodegradable items into the system, is crucial for its proper functioning. Proper usage and maintenance ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the septic system in treating wastewater and protecting public health and the environment.

A pressure dosed septic system

Also known as a pressurized septic system, is an alternative to the traditional gravity-fed septic system. It is designed to overcome certain challenges, such as high groundwater levels or soil conditions that are less conducive to wastewater treatment.

In a pressure dosed septic system, the basic components include a septic tank, a pump chamber, distribution pipes, and a drainfield.

1. Septic Tank: Similar to a traditional septic system, the septic tank in a pressure dosed system receives and holds wastewater from the household. It allows solid waste to settle at the bottom and separates lighter materials to form a scum layer. Bacteria in the tank help in the initial breakdown of organic matter.

2. Pump Chamber: The pump chamber is an additional component found in a pressure dosed system. It houses a submersible pump that is responsible for pumping effluent from the septic tank to the drainfield. The pump chamber is typically located between the septic tank and the drainfield.

3. Distribution Pipes: In a pressure dosed system, the effluent from the pump chamber is evenly distributed to the drainfield through a network of small-diameter pipes or tubing. These pipes are equipped with pressure or drip emitters that release the effluent in controlled doses. The distribution pipes are typically placed within gravel-filled trenches or specially designed drip dispersal systems.

4. Drainfield: The drainfield in a pressure dosed system is similar to that of a traditional septic system. It consists of a network of perforated pipes or chambers buried in the soil. The effluent, distributed in controlled doses through the distribution pipes, is further treated as it percolates through the soil. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing contaminants and providing additional treatment.

The use of a pump in a pressure dosed system allows for controlled distribution of effluent, ensuring uniform treatment throughout the drainfield. This system is particularly beneficial in areas with challenging soil conditions or high water tables, as it helps overcome these limitations and provides effective wastewater treatment. Regular maintenance, including pump inspections and occasional cleaning, is essential to ensure the proper functioning of the pump and overall system.

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