How To Check Septic Tank Levels With Sand Mound System? (Best solution)

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• Slowly lower the tube into the septic tank until it touches the bottom of the tank. As the device is slowly pulled out of the water, the check valve closes capturing a liquid/solid profile of the septic tank water. The thickness of the sludge layer can be measured.

How do I check the water level in my septic tank?

This normal liquid level is usually between 8” to 12” from the top of the tank on average (see picture at right). If the liquid level is at bottom of the outlet pipe, then one would assume the absorption area is accepting the household wastewater.

How often should a sand mound system be pumped?

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.

How do you maintain a sand mound septic system?

Proper Care Includes:

1. Checking the pump chamber, pump and floats every year and replacing or repairing worn or broken parts.
2. Installing a septic tank effluent filter or pump screen, if your system does not have one.
3. Taking action to protect the mound from overloading after a prolonged power outage or pump failure.

How do I check my septic tanks sludge level?

To measure the sludge layer:

1. Slowly lower the tube into the septic tank until it touches the bottom of the tank.
2. As the device is slowly pulled out of the water, the check valve closes capturing a liquid/solid profile of the septic tank water. The thickness of the sludge layer can be measured.

How do you know if septic tank is full?

Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:

1. Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
2. Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
3. Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
4. You Hear Gurgling Water.
5. You Have A Sewage Backup.
6. How often should you empty your septic tank?

How do I know if my drain field is failing?

The following are a few common signs of leach field failure:

1. Grass over leach field is greener than the rest of the yard.
2. The surrounding area is wet, mushy, or even has standing water.
3. Sewage odors around drains, tank, or leach field.
4. Slow running drains or backed up plumbing.

Should you mow a septic mound?

To prevent compaction, do not allow any vehicles or heavy equipment on the mound. When mowing the lawn, use a hand mower, rather than a riding mower. This will also help protect the mound from losing soil to erosion. The slope of the mound makes it more susceptible to erosion than a conventional drain field.

How long does a sand mound septic last?

Mounds and septic systems designed and installed prior to the year 2000 AVERAGE 20 to 25 years of useful life prior to failing and needing to be replaced. Many systems fail sooner than 20 years, and many last well beyond 25 years, the AVERAGE is 20 to 25 years.

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.

Do sand mounds need pumped?

A: A sand mound is a type of drain field or absorption area. Sand mounds can be elevated (above ground level) or below grade (pressure dosing system). There are still septic tanks before the sand mound, which will include a tank with the pump in it.

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 often should you empty a 1000 gallon septic tank?

For example, a 1,000 gallon septic tank, which is used by two people, should be pumped every 5.9 years. If there are eight people using a 1,000-gallon septic tank, it should be pumped every year.

How thick should the sludge layer be in a septic tank?

Septic tanks need to be pumped out when the sludge layer exceeds 24 inches in depth or when the bottom of the scum layer is less than 3 inches above the Page 2 lower end of the submerged outlet. If you cannot locate the submerged outlet, clean the tank if the scum layer is more than 12 inches thick.

How do I remove sludge from my septic tank?

How to Reduce Sludge in a Septic Tank Without Pumping

1. Install an aeration system with diffused air in your septic tank.
2. Break up any compacted sludge.
3. Add a bio-activator or microbe blend.
4. Maintain the aeration system.
5. Add additional Microbes as required.

Understanding and Maintaining Mound Systems

Many years have passed since septic tanks with gravity flow drainfields were first installed in places that were not served by municipal sewers. Not all soil and site conditions, however, are well suited for the use of these basic methods. Non-standard sewage treatment systems are frequently employed to preserve human health and water quality in regions where regular sewage treatment systems are unable to provide safe sewage treatment. A mound system is a form of non-standard system that delivers the following benefits:

• 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 as 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

Septic tank maintenance should be performed once a year, as well as as necessary. Solids leaking from the septic tank will clog the pump and mound if they are not drained out on a regular basis. Because it increases the quantity of particles entering the tank and necessitates more frequent pumping, the use of a waste disposal is highly advised. Keeping dangerous materials from being flushed into the septic tank is important to avoid. Grass, cooking oils, newspapers and paper towels, cigarette butts and coffee grounds are all prohibited from being disposed of in the tank.

Contact the Humboldt Garbage Management Authority if you need advice on how to properly dispose of hazardous household waste.

It is not required to use such materials in order for a septic tank to work properly, and they do not minimize the requirement for routine tank pumping.

Proper Care Includes:

1. Inspecting and pumping your septic tank at least once a year is recommended. Solids leaking from the septic tank will clog the pump and mound if the tank is not pumped on a regular basis. Because it will increase the quantity of solids entering the tank and need more frequent pumping, the use of a waste disposal is strongly advised. Keeping dangerous materials from being flushed into the septic tank. 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 pesticide wastes. Contact the Humboldt Garbage Management Authority for information on the appropriate disposal of hazardous home waste. Avoiding the use of any form of chemical or biological septic tank additive. Such items are not required for the correct operation of a septic tank, nor do they minimize the frequency with which the tank must be pumped.

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.

Treatment happens as a result of a fluid’s movement through the sand and into the surrounding natural soil. Every new mound must be accompanied by a replacement area that is clearly marked. It must be safeguarded in the event that an addition or repair to the current system is required.

Proper Care Includes:

1. Knowing where your system and replacement area are, and making sure they are protected, are essential. Before you plant a garden, erect a structure, or install a pool, double-check the position of your system and the area designated for replacement
2. Practicing water conservation and balancing your water consumption throughout the week will help to prevent the system from being overburdened. The greater the amount of wastewater produced, the greater the amount of wastewater that must be treated and disposed. Diversion of rainwater away from the mound and replacement area from surfaces such as roofs, driveways, patios, and sidewalks. The whole mound has been graded to allow for water drainage. Structures, ditches, and roadways should be placed far enough away from the mound so that water circulation from the mound is not impeded. Keeping traffic away from the mound and replacement area, including as automobiles, heavy equipment, and cattle is essential. The pressure might compress the earth or cause damage to the pipes, for example. Creating an appropriate landscape for your mound. It is not recommended to cover your mound or replacement area with impermeable materials. Construction materials such as concrete or plastic restrict evaporation and the delivery of air to the soil, both of which are necessary for effective wastewater treatment. For the mound, grass is the ideal cover
3. Inspecting the mound and downslope areas for smells, damp spots, or surface sewer on an ongoing basis. Check the liquid level in your mound system’s inspection pipes on a regular basis to verify if the liquid level is consistently more than 6 inches. This might be a warning sign of a potential issue. For help, contact the Division of Environmental Health of the County of Humboldt.

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.

Types of Septic Systems

Septic system design and size can differ significantly from one neighborhood to the next, as well as throughout the country, due to a variety of variables. Household size, soil type, slope of the site, lot size, closeness to sensitive water bodies, weather conditions, and even municipal ordinances are all considerations to take into consideration. The following are 10 of the most often encountered septic system configurations. It should be noted that this is not an exhaustive list; there are several additional types of septic systems.

• 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.

In terms of total footprint, gravel and stone systems are very substantial, and therefore may not be appropriate for all residential sites or situations.

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 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

Evaporative cooling systems feature drainfields that are one-of-a-kind. It is necessary to line the drainfield at the base of the evapotranspiration system with a waterproof material. Following the entry of the effluent into the drainfield, it evaporates into the atmosphere. At the same time, the sewage never filters into the soil and never enters groundwater, unlike other septic system designs. It is only in particular climatic circumstances that evapotranspiration systems are effective. The environment must be desert, with plenty of heat and sunshine, and no precipitation.

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.

The operation of a wetland system can be accomplished by either gravity flow or pressure distribution. 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

In certain cases, a decentralized wastewater treatment system is owned by a group of people and is responsible for collecting wastewater from two or more residences or buildings and transporting it to a treatment and dispersal system placed on a suitable location near the dwellings or buildings. Cluster systems are widespread in settings like rural subdivisions, where they may be found in large numbers.

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.

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

A sand mound can be used to aid with a variety of difficulties that may arise with a septic system. A specific mound made of gravel and sand is constructed in order to provide extra distance between the drain lines and bedrock or groundwater, which helps to prevent flooding. To bring sewage up to the higher levels of the drain field, these systems require the employment of a pump to circulate the effluent.

In order for the effluent to be adequately filtered into the groundwater, the pump is precisely constructed to release a specified volume of sewage into the drain field at a given time.

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

Again, in order to avoid flooding the sand mound with water, we must ensure that surface water drains away from this region of the site. Although sand mounds are intended to shed water, it is critical to prevent water runoff from roads, roofs, and other surfaces from accumulating near the base of the mound in order to maintain its effectiveness.

Inspections

If you notice any standing water or the stench of sewage in the area around your septic system, you should get it checked. This would imply that there is a problem with your system that needs to be addressed immediately before a more serious problem arises. In addition, it is a good idea to have us evaluate your septic tank, pump, and sand mound on a regular basis to verify that everything is operating properly and efficiently. Posts from the recent past

Septic Tank Repair – Aberdeen, WA – Stangland Septic Service

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. Controlling the pump operation can be accomplished by the use of control floats or timer controls, among other methods. When the control floats are adjusted to a specified level for pumping a specific volume of effluent every dosage, the pump will switch “ON” and “OFF.” Both the length of the dosage and the interval or rest period doses are produced by the timer controls, which are programmed to create both.

If you employ pump timer controls, the alarm will also sound to alert you if you are using too much water in your house.

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. A length of nylon rope or other noncorrosive material should be tied to the pump so that it may be moved into and out of the chamber as necessary.

Septic Tank Issues in Pike County PA

Septic systems are a cost-effective alternative to public sewage systems, and they are an excellent choice for individuals who are unable to connect to a public sewer system or who live too far away from public services. There are hundreds of thousands of house and property owners that rely on their septic system for their daily operations. However, there are certain distinctions between alternative wastewater treatment systems and typical public sewage systems, which means that homeowners who acquire a property that relies on a septic tank will have a learning curve to contend with.

Preventative septic system maintenance programs are helpful to the longevity of your septic system as well as the health of your family and property owners.

5 Ways to Care for Your Septic System

You must be consistent with septic system maintenance services if you want to maintain your septic system healthy and operating at peak performance. Everyone should get familiar with the types of care necessary to maintain their tank healthy and trouble-free, since doing so will help them prevent any significant problems down the line!

1. Regular septic system pumping and tank cleaning should be scheduled. Test the soil in the leach field on a regular basis to ensure that your water supply is protected. Drain clogs and septic backups should be addressed as soon as possible. Annual septic system maintenance checks should be performed to measure the layers of sludge in the system. Identify which substances and products might cause harm to your septic system by consulting with a septic system specialist

Do I need maintenance service on my septic tank?

Maintenance programs for septic systems that are carried out by expert septic contractors may help to extend the life of your system and save you time and money by avoiding the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Septic Emergency? Contact us immediately at570-828-7444

In many parts of Pennsylvania, soils feature layers, known as limitation zones, that are less than 60 inches deep inside the soil profile, indicating that they are shallow. An on-lot sewage limitation zone is defined by the Pennsylvania On-Lot Sewage Regulations as either bedrock or an impermeable soil layer as well as a high water table (including a seasonal high water table) or a layer with insufficient particles to appropriately treat the effluent. Because of limiting zones within the top 60 inches of some soils, it is not practicable to supply 48 inches of appropriate soil between the bottom of an in-ground absorption region and the top of the limiting zone in these soil types.

This allows for on-site treatment of wastewater in soils with between 20 and 60 inches of suitable soil available above the limiting zone.

Elevated sand mounds are only permitted on locations with slopes of no more than 15%, according to the regulations.

In addition, the Perc Rate must be between 3 and 180 minutes per inch in order to be effective. Effective mound treatment systems rely on correct placement, design, construction, and maintenance.

Distribution System

Compared to typical in-ground-absorption systems, elevated sand mounds have a significant advantage in that they can be built higher on top of the absorption region, allowing for greater depths in the limiting zone to reach the needed 48 inches. The elevation of the distribution system is typically higher than the elevation of the septic tank’s discharge, as a result of this. Consequently, a pump is necessary to move the wastewater from the septic tank to the sand mound and dispose of it properly.

In a pressure dosed distribution system, the effluent from the treatment tank flows into a second, smaller tank known as the dose tank (Fig.

The dosage tank is a concrete or fiberglass chamber that is buried below and located between the treatment tank and the effluent distribution system.

When the dosage tank has collected a set volume of effluent, the effluent is delivered to the sand mound for treatment.

Figure 1 shows an example of a formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formal The majority of systems transfer effluent many times each day, depending on the volume of wastewater generated by the household.

Because of these repeated applications of effluent to the sand mound, the mound is given time to rest between applications of effluent.

Figure 1 shows an example of a formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formal A cross-section of a pile of earth.

1. Figure 2 depicts a typical dosage tank and pump configuration.
2. The dosage tank must have a liquid capacity that is at least double the volume of the dose being administered.
3. The dosage volume must not be more than the daily flow volume specified for the system.
4. The access manhole for the tank should be covered by a sealed manhole extension that rises to the ground surface.
5. The swales should also be located and sloped in such a way that all surface runoff water is diverted away from the dosage tank.

Set up an alarm system that will both sound and illuminate if the effluent depth in the dosage tank reaches or exceeds the alert threshold. Standard alarm devices are readily accessible on the market. Figure 2: Pump tank for a sand mound construction project.

Site Selection and Preparation

Compared to typical in-ground-absorption systems, elevated sand mounds have a significant advantage in that they may be built higher on top of the absorption region, allowing for greater depths in the limiting zone to be reached (48 inches). The distribution system is often elevated above the septic tank’s output elevation, which allows it to function properly. To remove the wastewater from the septic tank and deposit it on top of the sand mound, the use of a pump is necessary. If the terrain allows it, a siphon may be used instead of a pump in a small number of circumstances.

• 2 shows a pressure dosed distribution system in which the treatment tank effluent flows into a smaller tank known as a dose tank from which the pump or siphon distributes the effluent to the sand mound on a periodic basis.
• Effluent from the treatment tank is pumped into this system.
• In this method, known as pressure dosing, effluent is consistently distributed throughout a sand mound’s surface, as well as through its laterals.
• Because of the periodic applications of effluent to the sand mound, the mound is given time to rest between applications of effluent.

Figure 1 shows an example of a formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalized formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formalised formal A cross-section of a pile of sand and gravel.

• The dosage tank and pump shown in Figure 2 are common.
• Dosage tanks must have a liquid capacity that is at least two times the amount of liquid included in the dose volume.
• The dosage volume must not be greater than the daily flow volume specified for the system’s configuration.
• The tank’s access manhole should be covered by a sealed manhole extension that rises to the land surface.
• It should also be positioned and sloped in such a manner that all surface runoff water is diverted away from the dosage tank and away from the building.

Make sure you have an alarm system in place that will both sound and illuminate if the effluent depth in your dosage tank exceeds the alert threshold. Alarm systems that are standard in design are readily accessible in the marketplace. A pump tank for sand mound construction is seen in Figure 2.

Mound Construction

You are now ready to begin constructing the mound. The size of the mound is determined by the projected daily flows of the system as well as the Perc Rate of the soil. Traditional in-ground absorption systems are approximately the same size as sand mound absorption areas, which range from 600 to 1,500 square feet for a three-bedroom home on average. Due to the fact that the absorption region is elevated and surrounded by a berm, the overall sand mound area will be significantly bigger than the actual absorption area of the berm.

• It is necessary to utilize a minimum of 12 inches of sand.
• For example, if the depth to the limiting zone is 20 inches, the minimum depth of sand at the upslope border of the absorption region must be 28 inches; the depth of soil plus this minimum depth of sand equals 48 inches; the depth of soil plus this minimum depth of sand = 48 inches.
• There must always be a minimum of 48 inches of sand and soil above the limiting zone in order for it to be effective.
• A regular flow of effluent through the sand and soil beneath the mound is enhanced as a result of this.
• As indicated in Figure 1, there are two feet of horizontal drop for every foot of vertical decline.
• The sand provider should give a “spec” document for the sand that shows that each load has been reviewed and authorized.
• Figure 1 illustrates how this berm will hold the sand and aggregate in place.

The distribution manifold and laterals are installed first, followed by 6 inches of aggregate, followed by enough aggregate to give 2 inches of cover over the pipe system, according to some installers.

laterals in the absorption area may be located up to 6 feet apart, and each lateral must have a sequence of holes spaced 6 feet apart and looking downhill on either side of it.

Laterals must be teed to both sides of the manifold at the same time.

When a dosage pump is used, the minimum hole size must be 14 inches, and when a siphon is used, the minimum hole size must be 5/16 inch.

In order to prevent damage from animals or machinery, they can (and should) be installed flush with the final grass surface.

After the aggregate and distribution pipes have been installed, cover the aggregate with a separation layer of untreated building paper, 2 inches of straw, or a geotextile to prevent backfill soil from settling downward into and clogging the aggregate.

It is required that the berm surrounding the perimeter of the mound extend at least 3 feet outward in all directions from where the top of the aggregate layer is located. The berm should have a side slope of 2(H):1(V) and be constructed of clean topsoil that is free of rocks, debris, and plants.

General Tips for Constructing Elevated Sand Mounds

• Construction should be avoided on damp soil in order to decrease compaction and spreading. During building, use low-load, tracked construction equipment and always retain a layer of sand between the vehicle and the ground. The sand, berm soil, and aggregate from the upslope side should be added. Maintain complete separation between all equipment and vehicles from the absorption area at all times. At all times, keep all equipment and vehicles away from the undisturbed area down slope of the high sand mound. Lightly compress the berm to prevent lateral flow from occurring.

Avoiding Unsatisfactory Performance in Mound Systems

In the right location and with the right design, construction, and maintenance, elevated sand mounds may provide a lifetime of dependable on-lot wastewater treatment for a small investment. Overloading of the hydraulic system, induced by high water use in the residence and inadequate placement, is the most typical cause of sand mound breakdowns. Hydraulic overloading is often manifested by the appearance of water at the toe of the mound or the eruption of water on top. The following procedures can help to lessen the likelihood of unsatisfactory performance in a sand mound:

• Reduce water use in the home by creating a culture of conservation. Ensure that the pump station and mound are checked for faults at least once every six months. Surface runoff water and roof downspouts should be diverted away from the mound. Reduce the amount of foot traffic on the mound and in the region downslope from the mound
• And Continue to keep all vehicle traffic off the mound and away from the area downslope from the mound. Drain and pump the septic and dose tanks at least every two years. Planting grass on the sand mound can help to avoid erosion of the soil. Planting deep-rooted or water-loving plants and trees on or near the sand mound is not recommended.

For additional assistance contact

• The following resources are available: your local Sewage Enforcement Officer
• Your County Extension Educator
• Pennsylvania Association of Sewage Enforcement Officers (PASEO)4902 Carlisle pike268 Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 Telephone: 717-761-8648
• Pennsylvania Septage Management Association (PSMA)Box 144 Bethlehem, PA 18016 Phone: 717-763-PSMA
• Pennsylvania Association of Sewage Enforcement Officers (PASEO)4902 Carlisle pi

FAQ – Advanced Septic Services Inc

Septic tanks are mostly comprised of settling chambers. They provide sufficient time for particles and scum to separate from wastewater, allowing clean liquid to be properly discharged to the drainfield. Over time, the scum and sludge layers thicken, reducing the amount of space and time available for waste water to settle before it is discharged into the drain field. Septic systems are limited in their ability to treat a given volume of water. For every gallon of water that enters the tank, one gallon of water is pushed out.

When large quantities of water are released in a short period of time, sediments may not have enough time to settle and may be taken out to the drain field, resulting in sludge clogging the pipes.

Do not disregard the needs of your septic system.

This is the most effective method of extending the life of your septic system.

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.

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.

In soils with a limiting layer within 12 to 36 inches of the soil surface, these techniques can be employed to improve soil quality.

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.

Mound systems are long and narrow, and they must be built in accordance with the contour of the land.

A mound system may be extended up to 30 feet in length per bedroom in order to accommodate larger dwellings.

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.

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:

• Karen Mancl is a professor in the Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles. Brian Slater is an Associate Professor in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of California, Davis. On-site educator Peg Cashell works in Logan, Utah. Septic tank-leach field systems, which require 36 inches of appropriate soil before reaching a limiting layer, are ineffective in many sections of Ohio because the soils are too shallow. The bedrock, sand, and gravel layers, thick and compacted layers, and water tables are the layers that limit the amount of water that can be carried. As seen in Figure 1, about 53% of Ohio’s soils include limiting layers at shallow levels that do not supply the required 36 inches of appropriate soil. When it comes to protecting the public health and the environment, mound systems are frequently utilized to remove toxins from wastewater in these locations. In soils with a limiting layer between 12 and 36 inches below the soil surface, these systems can be employed successfully. A typical mound system is seen in Figure 2. Specially chosen sand is spread on top of natural soil in these systems, which aid in the treatment of septic tank effluent. An accumulation tank holds septic tank discharged effluent, and a pump pushes a predefined volume of wastewater into a mound at regular intervals. Construction of mound systems must be done along the contour of the land since they are long and narrow. Depending on the soil and site circumstances, a mound system for a three-bedroom house can be as long as 200 feet. The length of a mound system is increased by up to 30 feet per bedroom for larger structures. Construction of a mound is done in layers with predefined depths (Figure 3). It is necessary to first calculate the natural soil depth above the limiting layer (which must be a minimum of 12 inches). Then, an appropriate-sized layer of sand is applied on top of the natural soil. The combined depth of the native soil and the sand added equals the minimum depth necessary to treat wastewater effluent in a sewage treatment plant. On top of the sand is laid a layer of gravel or a chamber that surrounds the distribution pipe system. To complete the process of freezing protection, a layer of earth fill is poured over the whole mound after it has been covered with construction fabric one more time. It is also necessary to have a layer of topsoil in order to produce grass or other nonwoody plants that help to prevent erosion. It is necessary to thoroughly prepare the site before beginning the construction of a mound. A rake has been used to clear away the leaves from the yard. The roots of trees and bushes are left in situ after the trunks and branches are chopped away at the ground. When the grass has been broken up and the surface has been roughened, the installer will use a chisel-plow to prepare the surface for the sand layer. During the installation, the installer will take care not to compact the soil in the mound region or immediately below the mound’s slope. In order to redirect any runoff water around the mound when construction is completed, the lot will be properly graded. Ohio State University Extension Bulletin 813, Mound Systems for On-Site Wastewater Treatment, and OSU Extension Bulletin 829, Mound Systems: Pressure Distribution of Wastewater provide detailed information on how to design and construct a mound system. setll.osu.edu. a Extension Pubs.osu.edu hosts both publications, which may be seen on the web. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their sewage systems to ensure that they operate without interruption. Among the responsibilities of the homeowner are: