How Does A Septic Tank Mound Drainfield Work? (TOP 5 Tips)

The mound is a drainfield that is raised above the natural soil surface in a specific sand fill material. The effluent leaves the pipes under low pressure through small diameter holes, and trickles downward through the gravel and into the sand.

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  • The mound is a drainfield that is raised above the natural soil surface in a specific sand fill material. Within the sand fill is a gravel-filled bed with a network of small diameter pipes. Septic tank effluent is pumped through the pipes in controlled doses to insure uniform distribution throughout the bed.

How often does a mound system need to be pumped?

The septic tank and dosing chamber should be pumped out at least once every three to five years. Depending on the size of the septic tank and the number of people in the household, the interval between pumpings may need to be shorter.

Do mound systems have drain fields?

Mound systems are an option in areas of shallow soil depth, high groundwater, or shallow bedrock. The constructed sand mound contains a drainfield trench. Effluent from the septic tank flows to a pump chamber where it is pumped to the mound in prescribed doses.

How long does a mound septic system last?

How Often Do Septic Tanks Need to Be Replaced? A septic tank can last between 20 and 40 years. The lifespan depends on the tank’s material.

Is a mound septic system bad?

A mound septic system is an alternative to other septic tank systems. It rests near the top of the ground and does not use a container for the waste. This type of septic system disposes the waste through sand, and the ground will absorb the waste. The mound septic system has many good points and bad points.

Can you walk on a septic mound?

Low-maintenance perennial plants that minimize the need to walk on the mound are ideal. Walking compacts the soil and may interfere with the evaporation of effluents. Do as little digging as possible when planting to avoid disturbing the mound and be sure to wear gloves to minimize your physical contact with the soil.

How do you maintain a septic mound?

1. Inspect your septic tank once every year and pump it when needed. If the tank is not pumped periodically, solids escaping from the septic tank will clog the pump and mound. Using a garbage disposal will increase the amount of solids entering the tank and require more frequent pumping.

What is a drainage mound?

Drainage mounds are essentially drainage fields constructed above ground, under a mound of soil. This allows for the aeration and treatment of the effluent in areas that are occasionally waterlogged. Conditions for an underground drainage field must, when not waterlogged, be suitable.

What is a mound drain field?

A mound system is an engineered drain field for treating wastewater in places with limited access to multi-stage wastewater treatment systems. Mound systems are an alternative to the traditional rural septic system drain field.

Why are mound septic systems so expensive?

Mound septic systems are considerably more expensive than conventional septics because they require more sophisticated construction. The cost of the electric pump and sand also contributes to the total price. Mound septic systems have an average cost between $10,000 and $20,000.

Can a mound system freeze?

So far this winter, Litzau Excavating has had to defrost one mound-style septic system that was installed 15 to 20 years ago, and has had to thaw that system multiple times in the past, according to Litzau. The area in which the mound or drain-field begins is the most common site for freezing issues, he said.

How much does it cost to replace a mound system?

Mound Septic System Cost A mound septic system costs $10,000 to $20,000 to install. It’s the most expensive system to install but often necessary in areas with high water tables, shallow soil depth or shallow bedrock.

What are the pipes sticking out of my sand mound?

PVC Septic Tank System Inspection Pipes A narrow, white PVC pipe is usually part of the overall Sewage Treatment Design. The pipe is designed to stick up out of the ground for easy access when checking to see if the system is working properly and when the Septic Tank needs to be pumped out again.

How do you landscape a mound septic system?

Plant shrubs or perennial plants on the berms around the mound or along the edges where the berms meet the flat part of your yard. Avoid planting shrubs or anything with deep roots on the mound itself.

What is the purpose of a sand mound?

Balance Water Usage. Sand mounds are typically used when there isn’t enough soil to properly filter contaminants out of the released water.

How large is a mound septic system?

A common mound size is 34 feet by 93 feet, but shapes vary significantly with design because of the large size of the mound. Septic systems are sized according to the amount of waste they will be treating, usually estimated by the number of bedrooms in the home.

Understanding and Maintaining Mound Systems

It is possible for your septic system’s leaching area to get inundated and saturated with water during periods of severe rain and snow runoff. In these situations it is important to decrease your washing and other activities around the house that consume a lot of water. You should avoid using too much detergent and other chemicals while doing laundry since they can block your septic tank, lower the bacteria levels in the tank, and cause the tank to work less efficiently overall. Is there anything you can do to aid with a septic system issue?

  • Cycles for dosing and resting
  • Uniform dispersion of effluent a level of sewage treatment that is known
  • An increase in the distance that wastewater must travel before it reaches groundwater

The following information will assist you in better understanding your mound system and ensuring that it continues to operate properly and at the lowest feasible cost. A typical mound system is composed of three functional components:

  • The sewage treatment plant
  • The pump chamber as well as the pump
  • The mound, as well as the land designated for its replacement

The Septic Tank

A typical septic tank is a huge, dual-chambered subterranean container composed of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene that collects and treats waste. All of the waste water from your home is channeled into the tank. Heavy materials sink to the bottom of the tank, where they are partially decomposed by bacterial activity. The majority of the lighter substances, such as grease and oils, rise to the surface and form a scum layer on the surface of the water. A liquid layer lies between the solid layers and travels from one chamber to another as it goes through the system.

Despite the fact that it has been partially treated, it still includes disease-causing germs as well as several other contaminants.

Proper Care Includes:

  1. Septic tank maintenance should include an inspection once a year and pumping it when necessary. Solids leaking from the septic tank will clog the pump and the mound if the tank is not pumped on a regular basis, which is recommended. Because it increases the quantity of solids entering the tank and necessitates more frequent pumping, the use of a waste disposal is strongly advised. Keeping dangerous materials from being flushed into the septic tank is important. Grass, cooking oils, newspapers and paper towels, cigarette butts and coffee grounds are all prohibited from being disposed of in the tank. Also prohibited are chemicals such as solvents, oils and paint, pesticides and solvents. In order to obtain information on the correct disposal of hazardous home trash, you should contact the Humboldt Waste Management Authority. It is important to avoid the use of any form of chemical or biological septic tank additive. As previously stated, such products are not essential nor beneficial to the effective operation of a septic tank, nor do they minimize the need for routine tank pumping.

The Pump Chamber

The pump chamber is a container made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene that collects the effluent from the septic tank. A pump, pump control floats, and a high water warning float are all included within the chamber. Pump activity can be regulated either via the use of control floats or through the use of timed controls. A series of control floats is used to switch the pump “on” and “off” at different levels in order to pump a certain volume of effluent per dose of medication. Using the timer settings, you may create dosages that are both long and short in duration, as well as intervals or rest periods between doses.

If pump timer controls are employed, the alarm will also sound to alert you if there is excessive water use in the home or if there is a leak in the system.

The alarm should be equipped with a buzzer and a bright light that can be seen clearly.

The pump discharge line should be equipped with a union and a valve to facilitate the removal of the pump. In order to transport the pump into and out of the chamber, a length of nylon rope or other non-corrosive material should be tied to it.

Proper Care Includes:

  1. Every year, inspecting the pump chamber, pump, and floats, and replacing or repairing any worn or broken parts is recommended. Pump maintenance should be performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. Corrosion should be checked on electrical components and conduits. If the alarm panel is equipped with a “push-to-test” button, it should be used on a regular basis. If your system does not already have one, you should consider installing a septic tank effluent filter or pump screen. Solids can block the pump and pipes in a septic tank, thus screening or filtering the effluent is an excellent method of avoiding this from happening. It is simple and quick to inspect and clean the filter when it becomes clogged, and it helps to avoid costly damage caused by particulates entering the system. After a protracted power loss or a pump failure, it is necessary to take steps to prevent the mound from being overloaded. After the pump is turned on, effluent will continue to gather in the pump chamber until the pump starts working. When there is more effluent in the chamber, the pump may be forced to dose a volume that is more than the mound’s capacity. It is possible for the plumbing in your home to back up once all of the reserve storage in the chamber has been used up. Reduce your water use to a bare minimum if the pump is not running for more than 6 hours.

The Mound

The mound is a drainfield that has been elevated above the natural soil surface using a particular sand fill material to provide drainage. A gravel-filled bed is interspersed throughout the sand fill, which is connected by a network of tiny diameter pipes. It is necessary to pump septic tank waste into pipelines in regulated quantities to ensure equal distribution over the bed of septic tank waste. Through small diameter pores in the pipes, low-pressure wastewater trickles downhill and into the sand.

Every new mound must be accompanied by a replacement area that is clearly marked.

Proper Care Includes:

  1. Drainfields are elevated above the normal soil surface with a particular sand fill material to create mounds. A gravel-filled bed is interspersed throughout the sand fill, and a network of tiny diameter pipes connects the two sections of bed together. It is necessary to pump septic tank waste into pipes in controlled quantities to ensure equal dispersion along the bed of the septic tank. The effluent exits the pipes under low pressure through small diameter holes, trickling downward through the gravel and into the sand below. Treatment happens as a result of a fluid’s passage through the sand and into the surrounding natural soils. Every new mound must be accompanied by a replacement area that has been set aside specifically for this purpose. When an existing system is upgraded or repaired, it is critical that it is safeguarded.

What If The Alarm Goes On?

If the effluent level within the pump chamber reaches the alarm float for any reason (faulty pump, floats, circuit, excessive water usage, or another problem), the alarm light and buzzer will illuminate. By conserving water (avoid baths, showers, and clothes washing), the reserve storage in the pump chamber should provide you with enough time to have the problem resolved before the next water bill arrives. To turn off the alarm, press the reset button on the alarm panel’s front panel. Before contacting a service or repair company, determine whether the problem might be caused by:

  1. A tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse are examples of this. The pump should be on a separate circuit with its own circuit breaker or fuse to prevent overloading. A piece of equipment can cause the breakers to trip if it’s connected to the same circuit as another piece of equipment
  2. A power cord that has become disconnected from a pump or float switch. Ensure that the switch and pump connectors make excellent contact with their respective outlets if the electrical connection is of the plug-in variety. Affixed to other chamber components such as the electric power wire, hoisting rope, or pump screen, the control floats become entangled. Make certain that the floats are free to move about in the chamber. Debris on the floats and support cable is causing the pump to trip the circuit breaker. Remove the floats from the chamber and thoroughly clean them.

CAUTION: Before touching the pump or floats, always switch off the power at the circuit breaker and unhook any power cables from the system. Entering the pump room is strictly prohibited. The gases that build up inside pump chambers are toxic, and a shortage of oxygen can be deadly. After completing the measures outlined above, contact your pump service person or on-site system contractor for assistance in locating the source of the problem. Pumps and other electrical equipment should only be serviced or repaired by someone who has previous experience.

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Guide To Understanding Mound Septic Systems, Sand Filtering Low Down

Is it a burrow? Is there a hidden treasure? Is that a crypt from the past? Mounds, or to put it another way, mound septic systems, aren’t quite as enticing as our imagination would have us believe. We, at GroundStone Wastewater Services, are quite familiar with mound septic systems since we have installed a large number of them beside houses, schools, and businesses throughout British Columbia. Our mounds do not hold treasure (sorry, guys), but they do contain a significant 1940s invention: the Mound Septic System, which was called after the mounds on which it was built.

Although this is often the case, it is not always the case.

And that’s OK since there are several advantages to installing a mound (also known as “above ground”) septic system rather than an underground one.

Those benefits, as well as the operation and maintenance of various types of Septic Systems, will be discussed in greater detail later in this chapter. But first and foremost.

What are Mound Septic Systems?

Septic systems on mounds (also known as above-ground septic systems or sand mound septic systems) are a type of drain field that is elevated above ground in an artificial mound, as the name implies. Mound Septic Systems, which were developed in the 1940s at the North Dakota College of Agriculture and were initially known as the “NODAK disposal system” after the location where they were developed, were a revolutionary alternative to typical subterranean septic systems and drain fields. To combat three environmental problems, the system was developed: (1) soil permeability that is either too slow or too rapid, (2) a shallow soil cover that soon gives way to creviced or porous bedrock, and (3) a high water table.

As a result, the Mound Septic System was developed, which allows for the creation of optimal conditions above ground.

In today’s world, the most popular form of Mound Septic System is a modified version of the NODAK, which was developed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the 1970s.

Water is delivered into the distribution pipes by a process known as pressure-dosing, which is installed in the gravel trenches and then into the distribution pipes.

How does a Mound Septic System work?

As a result, we know what many of the mounds in and around British Columbia are made of. Now, let’s take a look inside to observe how a Mound Septic System is put together. It is possible to install an Above-Ground or Mound Septic System, which is composed of three components: a septic tank, a dosing chamber, and a mound. When you flush the toilet or drain the kitchen sink, the waste makes its way into your septic tank, which is normally located beneath your home’s foundation. Solids (or “sludge”) sink to the bottom of the tank, while the effluent travels through to a second tank – the dosing chamber – where it is treated further.

  1. Into the pile it goes.
  2. If the effluent arrived all at once, your Mound Septic System would be unable to clean it effectively, which would result in a backup of the system.
  3. Eventually, the wastewater reaches the mound, where it is thoroughly cleansed and scattered before being discharged.
  4. When it comes to a mound septic system, the layers are everything.
  5. The tilled soil is combined with a light layer of sand to provide a transition zone for the scattered effluent to enter the earth.
  6. An inner layer of gravel and pipework surrounds the mound; it is here that the final treatment and distribution takes place.

Consequently, the effluent is recycled back into the ecosystem, where it feeds the grass that has been grown over the mound to keep it from eroding further.

When would you use a Mound Septic System?

According to your geographic location, the soil structure around your property, home, or company will differ from one region to another. When it comes to particular places and circumstances, a regular conventional septic system just will not function. Instead, you’ll need to think about switching to a different kind of septic system. When it comes to septic systems, mound or sand mound systems are the best choice when: The soil’s permeability is either too sluggish or too fast: If the wastewater is not thoroughly purified before reaching the water table line, high permeability soils will be unable to effectively treat it.

Soils with limited permeability, on the other hand, will not be able to absorb wastewater as quickly as they should.

It is easy for a thin soil cover to give way to porous bedrock: Where the soil cover over a creviced or porous bedrock is restricted, there will be less room available for wastewater to move through the sand and soils.

The water table is abnormally high: As is the case in regions where the soil cover quickly loses way to creviced or porous bedrock, areas where the water table line is exceptionally high frequently lack the quantity of soil required to adequately filter the water that would otherwise be there.

Choosing an above-ground or mound septic system will be your most safest bet if your drainage field site is in an area with any one of these characteristics, or a combination of all three.

How do you maintainMound Septic Systems?

Avoid flushing non-biodegradable materials down the toilet or pouring oil, grease, and chemicals down the sink at the most fundamental level (and this applies to virtually every type of septic system). These substances or items have the potential to clog or harm your septic tank. When it comes to potentially hazardous compounds, they might interfere with the natural breakdown of sludge and effluent in your septic system. It is possible that these chemicals will destroy the grass on top of your mound, as well as poisoning animals and humans that get too close to your mound.

These types of operations can result in soil erosion and compaction, as well as the potential for damage to your septic system.

As a result, your Mound Septic System becomes less capable of meeting the wastewater treatment demands of your residence and property, and it will fail.

Mound Septic Systems are more sophisticated, delicate, and expensive than other types of septic systems, which is why they are used more frequently.

This will assist in ensuring that your septic system is in excellent working condition and preventing an overspill, which can cause damage to the mound and need the reconstruction of the system.

What are the advantages of a Mound Septic System?

  • The soil absorption levels of your Mound Septic System will have no effect on its performance, which means you may install this sort of system on a land that would be unable to sustain a conventional septic system.
  • It is possible to use Mound Septic Systems in regions where the water table is particularly high and where conventional systems would normally fail.
  • It is possible to use Mound Septic Systems in areas where the water table is particularly high and where conventional systems would normally fail.
  • Because a Mound Septic System requires only a little amount of room to be installed, these systems are ideal for sites with limited space.
  • Because a Mound Septic System requires less area than a conventional septic system, it is typically easier to comply with building laws and health department restrictions.

What about the disadvantages of mound septic systems?

  • In addition to being more expensive and taking longer to establish than a regular septic system or any above-ground solution due to the engineering and materials needed, mound septic systems are also more difficult to maintain.
  • Due to the fact that mound septic systems are more sophisticated than conventional systems, they necessitate additional attention, regular maintenance, and may necessitate more frequent repairs.
  • When installing your septic system, be sure that the mound is positioned on level ground or a low sloping grade, since a steep slope might result in effluent runoff during periods of high discharge.
  • When incorporating a mound into your landscape, it is important to avoid making it ugly or attracting unwanted attention.
  • In addition, because a Mound Septic System is not gravity-fed, if any of its components fail, you will almost certainly encounter overspill, blockages, and other difficulties.
  • In addition, because a Mound Septic System is not gravity-fed, if any of its components fail, you will almost certainly face overspill, blockages, and other issues.

How much does a MoundSeptic System cost?

Pricing can vary greatly based on a variety of criteria, including soil conditions, lot size, home size, the permeability of the soil, the cost of sand, and the distance traveled (often very rural lots can be long distances from quarries and trucking costs can easily run high).

Summarizing Video of the Sand Mound System

For a more in-depth investigation, Please provide us with your feedback and ask any questions you may have:

What is a Mound Septic System?

Sewage treatment systems are underground wastewater treatment systems that are most typically seen in rural regions. These systems are the most widely utilized systems around the globe. It is necessary to employ septic systems in locations that do not have a link to the municipal sewage system. It is possible to have various types of septic systems, and the mound septic system is one of those options. The mound septic system will be the primary topic of discussion in this essay.

What is a Mound Septic System?

Septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that are used to treat wastewater in regions where multi-stage wastewater treatment systems are not available or are not available in sufficient numbers. These systems are intended to provide a replacement for the drainage field of typical rural sewage disposal systems. The mound septic system is used in places where septic tank systems are prone to failure owing to the presence of extremely impermeable or permeable soils, shallow-pored bedrock soils, and a high groundwater terrain level, among other factors.

  • The University of Wisconsin investigated the construction of a mound system in the 1970s as part of the university’s waste management initiative.
  • In the early 2000s, a revised handbook was issued.
  • A higher number of electrical and other components are also required in comparison to typical systems.
  • After constructing the mound system, it should be covered with dirt and grass planted on top.
  • This container is responsible for transporting wastewater to the drain field.
  • The service life of a mound septic system is less than the service life of a standardized septic system.

How does aMoundSeptic System work?

It is necessary to employ a mound septic system in regions where traditional septic tank systems are not appropriate for installation. Depending on the soil type, there may be too much clay present to allow water to penetrate at a sufficient pace, or the water table may be too near to the surface to be effective. In addition to the absorption mound, the system includes a dosing chamber and a septic tank. The operation of a mound system is basically similar to that of other septic systems. To begin, the wastewater from your home runs into the septic tank, where it continues to work its way down the pipe to the drain field.

  • In the following step, the wastewater passes through the septic tank and into the dosing chamber.
  • This mound provides a suitable layer of soil with appropriate thickness to guarantee that there is sufficient time and space for the wastewater to be properly treated.
  • The purification process is the name given to this procedure.
  • Due to the influx of water into the drain field, some of the soil’s wastewater treatment capacity is reduced.

It is believed that the flora that grows on the mound system assists in the evaporation of part of the fluid. These characteristics allow mound systems to operate more effectively and have a longer service life than traditional systems. This is especially relevant in areas with a low water table.

Components of Mound Septic System

The mound septic system is composed mostly of the following key elements:

1) Septic Tank

A septic tank is a waterproof chamber that is buried underground. It is made of polyethylene, fiberglass, or concrete, among other materials. Because septic tanks are designed to hold sewer water for an extended period of time, the solid particles in the sewer water settle to the bottom of the tank over time. As it traps wastewater, sludge, greases, and oils float to the surface of the water, where they are collected. It also makes it possible to decompose solid particles in a fractional fashion.

2) Dosing or Distribution chamber

The dosing chamber is responsible for removing wastewater from your septic tank and transporting it to the drain field. The component of the mound septic system that ensures that wastewater is distributed uniformly in the drainage area is known as the distribution component. It is equipped with several septic tank openings that go to the drain field. It is possible that the septic system dosing chamber will not function properly, resulting in uneven water distribution and ineffective drainage.

3) Leach field or drain field

After passing through the septic tank, the wastewater is discharged into the leach field or drain field for further soil treatment before being reused. Every time new sewer water is introduced into the septic tank, some previously treated sewer water is forced onto the leaching/drainage point for further treatment and clarification. Many drain fields are known for their sequence of ditches that are bordered by gravel or rock and include perforated pipes that are covered with soil and mesh. All of the drainage that makes its way into the drain field is partly evaporated and partly absorbed by the ground.

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4) Soil

Septic tank wastewater is channeled into the drainage system, where it seeps into the groundwater table. To prepare for ultimate cleaning, this soil eliminates unwanted nutrients, viruses, and germs from the environment. In order for wastewater treatment to be successful, it is critical that there be adequate soil available.

How much does a Mound Septic System cost

A mound septic system is more expensive than a normal septic system because it necessitates a more complicated design than a typical septic system. The price of the sand and the electric pump both have an impact on the overall cost of this system as well. It is possible to spend anywhere from $9000 to $20,100 on a mound septic tank system on average. Septic tank systems that are often used, on the other hand, are quite affordable, ranging in price from $2900 to $15,000.

  • The typical cost of mound septic systems is from $9000 to $20,000, although the prices can be quite expensive, particularly for big systems. A wastewater treatment plant’s regular maintenance is critical, and the cost of pumping and maintenance is around $500 per year on average.

Mound Septic System problems

The following are some of the most typical issues that mound septic systems encounter:

1) Failure due to poor design or siting

  • In order for the mound to be placed on the soil, it must be at least one foot above the occasionally saturated soils. Lack of sufficient sand to neutralize sewage contaminants prior to their entry into native soils (toes)
  • The mound septic system is placed on compacted or disturbed soil (toe/top)
  • It is designed to handle high water pressure. Nowhere on the contour lines can you find a soil remediation system. The soil treatment system is positioned in the drainage channel of the plateau/swales
  • Improper calculations of soil permeability, structure, and texture
  • Incline calculation error (a system developed for flat fields, not slope fields) (toes)
  • Incline calculation error (a system designed for flat fields, not slope fields) (toes)
  • Error in the calculation absorption area/lower area: the region where wastewater enters the original soil (toe/top) and absorbs. This difficulty might arise as a result of the use of heavy clays, which need vast absorption surfaces and low counter loads. When building multiple mounds on a slope with little space between the two, this is referred as as

2) Failure due to construction faults

The following are examples of installation-related building errors:

  • Due to the fact that extra growth is not separated (toe), the penetration of the plant mat is reduced. When the wastewater receiving area is squeezed during construction, intrusion (toe) can be reduced significantly. When the water freezes in loose pipes during the winter session (pump tank or side difficulties), the water remains in the pipes. Because the soil moisture has surpassed the plastic confine (toe) during the scarification or drilling operation, the manure receiving area becomes polluted. Pump selection or float setting (toe or side/top) that is not appropriate. Parts of the water tank (toe) that are leaking
  • Pipe that has been broken or detached (at the tip or on the side)

3) Failure due to system misuse by homeowners

  • Because extra vegetation is not separated (toe), the plant mat is less likely to be penetrated. During construction, the wastewater receiving area is condensed, which reduces incursion (toe). During the winter session, water accumulates in leaking pipes and freezes (pump tank or side issues)
  • The manure receiving region becomes polluted during the scarification or drilling procedure because the soil moisture has surpassed the plastic limit (toe). the use of the incorrect pump, or the incorrect float setting (toe or side/top)
  • The water tank (toe) has leaks in some of its sections
  • Tip or side of pipe is broken or disconnected.

Maintenance of Mound Septic System

  • It is recommended that you link your mound septic system with observation pipes as soon as possible if you have not already done so. Observation Pipes eliminate the need for excavation and the need for access ports to examine the septic tank, resulting in significant cost savings. By using an observation tube, you may encourage regular checks of the dosage chamber and prevent contamination. The presence of an issue may be indicated by a progressive increase in the water depth
  • Every 3-5 years, the dosing chamber and septic tank must be completely removed and disposed of. The intervals between tank pumpings may vary depending on the size of the septic tank and the number of residents in the area. The septic tank should be inspected at least once a year to identify the rate at which sludge is accumulating. You will be able to pump your septic tank before it reaches critical levels in this manner. In order to maximize water uptake and prevent erosion, grass and other vegetative coverings should be planted on the drainage area. Planting trees or shrubs with numerous roots in or near the drain, on the other hand, might cause the drain tubes to become clogged. On the drainage area, don’t build anything or use any kind of vehicle. This has the potential to compact the soil, diminish its absorption capacity, and harm the distribution tubes. To trim the grass in the drainage region, a small lawnmower might be utilized. Installing permanent devices such as playground equipment on the mound septic system, on the other hand, is not recommended. Preserve a drawing of your mound septic system’s layout in your house, which depicts where the drain field, dosing container, and septic tank are located. Prevent undesirable particles such as paper, plastic, and food from entering your drainage system by taking steps to reduce your home’s water use. Do not drain any solvents, hazardous chemicals, grease, or oil into the drain line. These materials have the potential to cause damage to the system. In order to prevent wastewater from entering an underground absorption point, the wastewater must be directed away from the absorption point.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Mound Septic System

Advantages Disadvantages
It can be installed anywhere. This system has a high installation cost.
It doesn’t have container. It can’t install the areas which has limited space.
These systems have an easy installation than other types of systems. It has high price than a conventional septic system.
The area of the mound septic system doesn’t require much excavation. If there will be any leakage then you will need to rebuild the mound partially or fully.

FAQ Section

Jean-Louis Mouras was the inventor of the septic system, which was developed in the 1860s.

Is a mound septic system bad?

  • An expensive installation fee is required for a mound system. It cannot be used in regions where there is a lack of available space. In addition, it lacks a container for the storage of sewage water. Therefore, a huge amount of space is required for the trench.

How long does a mound septic system last?

A mound septic system has a service life of 15 to 40 years, depending on the conditions.

Can a mound system be put anywhere?

Yes, these systems may be put almost anyplace, however the installation costs are rather costly for these systems.

These systems, on the other hand, cannot be implemented in sites with restricted space. Likewise, see: 1) What is the operation of an Aerobic Septic System? 2)Can you explain how a septic tank pump works?

Types of Septic Systems

Generally speaking, this type of system may be put everywhere, but the cost of installation is rather significant. These systems, on the other hand, cannot be placed in areas with restricted space availability. Refer to this page for further information. 1) What is the operation of an Aerobic Septic System? 2. What is the operation of the septic tank pump?

  • Septic Tank, Conventional System, Chamber System, Drip Distribution System, Aerobic Treatment Unit, Mound Systems, Recirculating Sand Filter System, Evapotranspiration System, Constructed Wetland System, Cluster / Community System, etc.

Septic Tank

This tank is underground and waterproof, and it was designed and built specifically for receiving and partially treating raw home sanitary wastewater. Generally speaking, heavy materials settle at or near the bottom of the tank, whereas greases and lighter solids float to the surface. The sediments are retained in the tank, while the wastewater is sent to the drainfield for further treatment and dispersion once it has been treated.

Conventional System

Septic tanks and trench or bed subsurface wastewater infiltration systems are two types of decentralized wastewater treatment systems (drainfield). When it comes to single-family homes and small businesses, a traditional septic system is the most common type of system. For decades, people have used a gravel/stone drainfield as a method of water drainage. The term is derived from the process of constructing the drainfield. A short underground trench made of stone or gravel collects wastewater from the septic tank in this configuration, which is commonly used.

Effluent filters through the stone and is further cleaned by microorganisms once it reaches the soil below the gravel/stone trench, which is located below the trench.

Chamber System

Gravelless drainfields have been regularly utilized in various states for more than 30 years and have evolved into a standard technology that has mostly replaced gravel systems. Various configurations are possible, including open-bottom chambers, pipe that has been clothed, and synthetic materials such as expanded polystyrene media. Gravelless systems can be constructed entirely of recycled materials, resulting in considerable reductions in carbon dioxide emissions during their lifetime. The chamber system is a type of gravelless system that can be used as an example.

The key advantage of the chamber system is the enhanced simplicity with which it can be delivered and built.

This sort of system is made up of a number of chambers that are connected to one another.

Wastewater is transported from the septic tank to the chambers through pipes. The wastewater comes into touch with the earth when it is contained within the chambers. The wastewater is treated by microbes that live on or near the soil.

Drip Distribution System

An effluent dispersal system such as the drip distribution system may be employed in a variety of drainfield configurations and is very versatile. In comparison to other distribution systems, the drip distribution system does not require a vast mound of dirt because the drip laterals are only placed into the top 6 to 12 inches of soil. In addition to requiring a big dosage tank after the sewage treatment plant to handle scheduled dose delivery of wastewater to drip absorption areas, the drip distribution system has one major disadvantage: it is more expensive.

Aerobic Treatment Unit

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) are small-scale wastewater treatment facilities that employ many of the same procedures as a municipal sewage plant. An aerobic system adds oxygen to the treatment tank using a pump. When there is an increase in oxygen in the system, there is an increase in natural bacterial activity, which then offers extra treatment for nutrients in the effluent. It is possible that certain aerobic systems may additionally include a pretreatment tank as well as a final treatment tank that will include disinfection in order to further lower pathogen levels.

ATUs should be maintained on a regular basis during their service life.

Mound Systems

Using mound systems in regions with short soil depth, high groundwater levels, or shallow bedrock might be a good alternative. A drainfield trench has been dug through the sand mound that was erected. The effluent from the septic tank runs into a pump chamber, where it is pumped to the mound in the amounts recommended. During its release to the trench, the effluent filters through the sand and is dispersed into the native soil, where it continues to be treated. However, while mound systems can be an effective solution for some soil conditions, they demand a significant amount of land and require regular care.

Recirculating Sand Filter System

Sand filter systems can be built either above or below ground, depending on the use. The effluent is discharged from the septic tank into a pump compartment. Afterwards, it is pushed into the sand filter. The sand filter is often made of PVC or a concrete box that is filled with a sand-like substance. The effluent is pushed through the pipes at the top of the filter under low pressure to the drain. As the effluent exits the pipelines, it is treated as it passes through the sand filtering system.

However, sand filters are more costly than a standard septic system because they provide a higher level of nutrient treatment and are thus better suited for areas with high water tables or that are adjacent to bodies of water.

Evapotranspiration System

Sand filtration systems can be built either above or below ground, depending on the circumstances. Drainage from the septic tank is directed to a pump chamber. A sand filter is then used to filter the water. The sand filter is often made of PVC or a concrete box that is filled with a sand-like substance. Under low pressure, effluent is pushed via pipes that run up to the top of the filter. While passing through the sand filter, the effluent is treated as it exits the pipes and enters the environment.

However, sand filters are more costly than a standard septic system since they provide a higher level of nutrient treatment and are thus suitable for areas with high water tables or that are adjacent to water bodies.

Constructed Wetland System

Construction of a manufactured wetland is intended to simulate the treatment processes that occur in natural wetland areas. Wastewater goes from the septic tank and into the wetland cell, where it is treated. Afterwards, the wastewater goes into the media, where it is cleaned by microorganisms, plants, and other media that eliminate pathogens and nutrients. Typically, a wetland cell is constructed with an impermeable liner, gravel and sand fill, and the necessary wetland plants, all of which must be capable of withstanding the constant saturation of the surrounding environment.

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As wastewater travels through the wetland, it may escape the wetland and flow onto a drainfield, where it will undergo more wastewater treatment before being absorbed into the soil by bacteria.

Cluster / Community System

Construction of a manmade wetland is designed to imitate the treatment processes that occur naturally in wetland areas. Wastewater is discharged from the septic tank into the wetland cell. Afterwards, the wastewater goes into the media, where it is cleaned by microorganisms, plants, and other media, which remove pathogens and nutrients. The wetland cell is normally comprised of an impermeable liner, gravel and sand fill, and the required wetland plants, all of which must be able to thrive in a constantly flooded environment in order to function properly.

In other cases, wastewater may depart the wetland and flow onto a drainfield, where it will be treated further before being absorbed into the soil.

What is a Sand Mound?

Septic systems are widespread in more rural locations, where they may be found in abundance. Septic systems are used to treat and dispose of wastewater in these residences since they are often located in areas where municipal sewage systems are difficult to reach or do not exist. A standard septic system, on the other hand, may not be a practical solution based on the geography and the unique demands of the family. Sand mounds are one method of addressing some of the issues that homeowners may have while installing a septic system.

Basics of a Septic System

A classic septic system relies on gravity to completely cleanse wastewater before discharging it into the surrounding groundwater supply. Our septic tanks collect the wastewater that exits our homes once it has been directed into them. In this tank, which is separated into two portions, the first breakdown of dangerous bacteria takes place in the first area. Heavy solid matter, referred to as sludge, sinks to the bottom of the tank, while lighter solid matter, referred to as scum, floats to the surface of the tank.

Following this, the effluent is routed into the second part of the tank, where the cycle is repeated.

Most of the time, the drain field is comprised of a number of pipes that distribute the water equally across the earth. Any bacteria that remain in the water are eliminated as it sinks farther down through the soil, and clean water is discharged into the groundwater system.

When a Septic System Doesn’t Work

Despite the fact that septic systems are an excellent method of disposing of wastewater, they are not always a choice in some situations. When it comes to building and maintaining a septic system, factors such as rocky terrain, shallow bedrock levels, and high groundwater levels can all provide difficulties for homeowners. Installing a septic system with a sand mound is one method of dealing with these issues effectively.

Sand Mounds

Aerated concrete tanks (aerated concrete tanks) are an excellent way to dispose of wastewater, however they are not always a choice. When it comes to constructing and maintaining a septic system, things like rocky terrain, shallow bedrock levels, and high groundwater levels can all present issues. Installing a septic system with a sand mound is one method of addressing these issues.

How to Care for a Sand Mound

With any septic system, you must be aware of the correct maintenance procedures to keep it working properly, but with a sand mound, there are a few additional considerations that must be taken into consideration.

Know its Location

Knowing where your septic tank, plumbing lines, and sand mound are located may seem like a no-brainer, but it is critical to know where everything is. It is essential that you maintain these places free after you have identified where they are. Planting trees, building decks, and driving over these places should be avoided since these activities might cause damage to the lines and result in costly repairs.

Balance Water Usage

In most cases, sand mounds are employed when there isn’t enough soil available to appropriately filter pollutants out of the water being discharged. This means that it is preferable to spread out your water consumption over the course of a week. Therefore, running the dishwasher and doing five loads of laundry at the same time is not a good idea if you have sand in your basement. By spreading out water consumption, the sand mound will not be overburdened with too much water, making it unable to efficiently filter any leftover pollutants.

Divert Surface Water

It is common to employ sand mounds when there is insufficient soil to effectively filter pollutants out of the discharged water. Therefore, it is preferable to spread out your water consumption over the course of a week. It follows that running the dishwasher while also doing five loads of laundry at the same time is not the ideal option if you have a sand pile. It is less likely that the sand mound will become overwhelmed with too much water, preventing it from efficiently filtering any leftover toxins.

Inspections

In most cases, sand mounds are employed when there is insufficient soil to appropriately filter pollutants out of the discharged water. This means that it is ideal to spread out your water consumption throughout the course of the week.

As a result, if you have a sand pile, running the dishwasher and doing 5 loads of laundry at the same time is not the ideal option. Due to the spaced-out water consumption, the sand mound will not be inundated with too much water, making it unable to adequately filter any residual toxins.

Septic Tank: Mound System

Karen Mancl is a Professor of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering at the University of California, Davis. Brian Slater is an Associate Professor in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of California, Berkeley. Peg Cashell, On-site Educator in Logan, Utah, is an example of this. Septic tank-leach field systems, which require 36 inches of acceptable soil before reaching a limiting layer, are ineffective in significant parts of Ohio due to the shallowness of the soils.

  1. Approximately 53% of Ohio’s soils contain limiting layers at shallow levels that do not supply the 36 inches of appropriate soil required by the state, as seen in Figure 1.
  2. In soils with a limiting layer within 12 to 36 inches of the soil surface, these techniques can be employed to improve soil quality.
  3. Specially chosen sand is spread on top of natural soil in these systems, which aid in the treatment of septic tank effluent and other waste.
  4. Mound systems are long and narrow, and they must be built in accordance with the contour of the land.
  5. A mound system may be extended up to 30 feet in length per bedroom in order to accommodate larger dwellings.
  6. After determining the natural soil depth above the limiting layer (which must be a minimum of 12 inches), a layer of carefully sized sand is poured on top of the natural soil to provide a stable foundation.
  7. After that, a layer of gravel or a chamber around the distribution pipes is laid on top of the sand to protect them.

It is also necessary to have a layer of topsoil in order to produce grass or other nonwoody plants that help to limit erosion.

The lawn has been mowed and the leaves have been brushed away.

The chisel-plow will be used by the installer to break up the grass and roughen the surface in preparation for the sand layer to be applied later.

Following completion, the property will be meticulously graded in order to redirect any runoff water away from the mound’s perimeter.

setll.osu.edu.

Both papers are accessible online atextensionpubs.osu.edu, where you may also read them. As with any other domestic sewage system, the homeowner is responsible for keeping the system in good working order to ensure trouble-free operation. The homeowner should do the following:

  • Every one to five years, have the septic and dosing tanks pumped out. water usage should be minimized, and water-saving devices should be installed in the residence The soil downslope of a mound should never be compacted by pavement, construction of a structure, or parking of automobiles. By avoiding growing trees or plants on the mound, you may prevent roots from blocking the pipes.

Mound system – Wikipedia

In areas with limited access to multi-stage wastewater treatment facilities, an engineered drain field can be used to treat wastewater in an environmentally friendly manner. Mound systems, as opposed to the usual rural septic system drain field, are becoming increasingly popular. A high water table, exceptionally permeable or impermeable soils, soil with a superficial cover over porous bedrock, and topography with a high water table all contribute to the failure of septic systems in these places.

History

The Nodak Disposal System, built by the North Dakota College of Agriculture in the 1930s, was a mound system that was used to dispose of solid waste. As part of the university’s Waste Management Project, researchers from the University of Wisconsin investigated the construction of mound systems in 1976. This effort resulted in the publication of the world’s first design handbook for mounds, which identified the suitable site conditions and design requirements for mounds. In the year 2000, a new handbook was published.

Suitability

Mound systems are utilized to aid in the effective purification and transportation of water. Some soils have a high permeability, which allows water to move through them fast, reducing the efficiency of filtration and enabling contaminants to spread to neighbouring water sources or ecosystems. Surface pooling can occur in regions with low soil permeability, such as those with high water tables and limited soil cover over porous bedrock.

Design

Aseptic tank, dosing chamber, and a mound are all components of the mound system. Septic tanks are used to collect household waste, with the solid component of the waste sinking to the bottom of the tank. Flue gasses are delivered to a second tank known as a dosing chamber, from which they are released to the mound at a measured pace, as shown in the diagram (in doses). Wastewater is partially treated as it passes through the mounds of sand in the treatment area. It is the soil underlying the mound that is responsible for the final treatment and disposal.

The absorption mound is constructed in many levels.

In accordance with standards developed by Ohio State University, a minimum of 24 inches of soil should be present above the limiting layer in the soil.

The distribution pipes, which are supplied by the dosing chamber, are put on top of the sand and gravel in the distribution chamber.

The top layer of soil also enables for the planting of grass or non-woody plants on top of the mound to help limit erosion.

If the permeability of the soil is too poor, the liquid will not be absorbed as quickly as it should be.

In any case, the mound system offers an excellent home for the biofilm and has the appropriate permeability to ensure that effluent is slowly absorbed into the mound before escaping as purified water into the surrounding environment once it has been treated.

It is necessary to remove any trees that are in the mound area, but the roots and stumps are left in place.

This is done in order to prepare the region for the sand.

Tyler tables are used to assist in determining the size of the mound.

The application of small, repeated doses of effluent to sand filters having orifices that are closely spaced aids in the improvement of effluent quality and quantity.

Demand dosing, on the other hand, releases enormous volumes of effluent all at once, which flows through the sand in a short period of time. This does not provide the biota with the necessary length of time to clean the effluent, as it should.

See also

  1. AbConverse, J.C., and Tyler, J.E. (2000, 2000). Wisconsin Mound Soil Absorption System (WISCONSIN MOUND SOIL ABSORPTION SYSTEM) The site was last visited on October 10, 2007. Link

Further reading

  • C. Solomon, P. Casey, C. Mackne, and A. Lake published a paper in 1998 titled Mound Systems are a type of mound system. 10 October 2007: National Small Flows Clearinghouse, Volumes 1-2. Link to the National Small Flows Clearinghouse, which was established in 1999. MOUNDS ARE AN OPTION TO THE SEPTIC SYSTEM. Pipeline, Volume 10, Number 3, Pages 1-8. The site was last visited in October 2007. SepticAPedia (SepticAPedia, 2007). Septic mounds as components of alternative septic systems for difficult sites are being explored. Inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, and problem prevention advice for the construction industry and the environment. 09/05/2007. 15th of October, 2007. The Water Quality Program Committee may be found at this link. Virginia Tech was founded in 1996. “Maintenance of Mound Septic Systems,” as it is known in the industry. Virginia Tech is a public research university in Blacksburg, Virginia. Virginia Cooperative Extension is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing agricultural research and education in Virginia. The site was last visited on October 15, 2007. Karen Mancl is a link to her website. 1993. Sewage Treatment Plant – Mound System Ohio State University Extension is a division of the university. Ohio State University is located in Columbus, Ohio. The site was last visited on October 15, 2007. Darby, J., G. Tchobanoglous, M. Arsi Nor, and D. Maciolek. 1996. Link
  • Darby, J., G. Tchobanoglous, M. Arsi Nor, and D. Maciolek. 1996. The performance of shallow intermittent sand filtration has been evaluated. The Small Flows Journal, Volume 2, Numbers 3-16

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