How Long Should Lateral Lines Be On A Septic Tank? (Solution found)

  • The lines should not be closer than 10-feet apart and no longer than about 100-feet long. How long are septic lateral lines? A typical drainfield trench is 18 to 30 inches in depth, with a maximum soil cover over the disposal field of 36 inches.

How long do septic lateral lines need to be?

A typical septic drainfield trench is 18 to 30 inches in depth, with a maximum soil cover over the disposal field of 36″; or per the USDA, 2 feet to 5 feet in depth.

How long should a leach drain be?

6m from any sub-soil drain, drainage easement, soakwells etc. 30m from any well, bore, waterway or water body. There must be a minimum separation distance of 3.6m between leach drains.

How far do field lines extend from septic tank?

Your septic system site plan is typically drawn right on top of your property survey showing the septic tank ‘setbacks’ with tank 5-10 feet from the house, the leach field at least 20 feet from the house, at least 100 feet away from wells and streams, 25 feet away from dry gulches, and 10 feet away from the property

How many feet of leach line do I need?

REQUIRED SEPTIC TANK SIZE IN GAL. * A minimum of 150 square feet of trench bottom area is required. ** # gal X soil type multiplier 100 4.285 Note: Maximum length of any leach line is 100 feet. If more than 100 feet is required, then a distribution box with multiple lines will be needed.

Can septic lateral lines be cleaned?

It is often possible to clean and renew a clogged septic leach field instead of replacing the drain field lines. Septic field lines can fail to drain when heavy solids accumulate and block perforations in the lines. You can use a sewer jetter to clean perforated PVC septic leach field lines from 2″ to 6″ ID.

How long do field lines last?

A well-built and properly maintained drainfield should last for at least 20 years. But there are some factors that determine exactly how long the septic drain field will last.

How far down is a leach field?

A typical drainfield trench is 18 to 30 inches in depth, with a maximum soil cover over the disposal field of 36 inches.

What is the slope for septic lines?

A typical septic tank has a 4-inch inlet located at the top. The pipe that connects to it must maintain a 1/4-inch-per-foot slope toward it from the house. This means that for every 10 feet of distance between the tank and the house, the inlet must be 2 1/2 inches below the point at which the pipe exits the house.

Can a leach field be too deep?

Drain Field Depth The result is a drain field about 3 to 4 feet deep. Sometimes, however, a drain field may need to be a bit shallower and can result in drain pipes as close to the surface as 6 inches. Underground obstacles can cause this situation.

How close can you build next to a drain field?

– A full foundation must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 20 feet from the leaching area. – A slab foundation such as a garage must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 10 feet from the leaching area. – Concrete columns for a deck must be 5 feet from the leaching area and not disturb the septic system.

Can you add dirt on top of leach field?

Never add additional soil over the drain field unless it is a minimal amount used to restore an area that may have been eroded or pulled up by removing another plant. Try not to be overly zealous when tilling the soil for planting. Remember that the drain lines may be as close as 6 inches from the soil surface.

How often does a 1000 gallon septic tank need to be pumped?

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.

Can I plant a garden over my septic field?

Planting over a septic leach field (drain field) is possible if it is done with care. If you have limited space on your property where you can garden, the leach field may be the only spot for landscaping. Vegetable gardening over a leach field is not recommended.

Do you cap the end of a leach line?

Cap any terminal ends of the pipes with glued PVC caps. Not all leach field plans have terminal ends on the pipes. Place approximately 6 inches of gravel over the pipe, using care to avoid disturbing the pipe placement. Your municipality may require an inspection before you do this.

What Are Septic Tank Lateral Lines and Percolation Areas

Septic tank lateral lines are also referred to as percolation pipelines in some circles. Perforated pipes that extend below ground from the septic tank’s outflow and into the soil are referred to as leach lines. The goal of these lateral lines is to create a network of pipes via which the effluent from the septic tank may be sent and collected. After passing through these pipes, the effluent seeps out of the perforations in the pipes and infiltrates into the soil. The effluent eventually infiltrates into the ground through the lateral lines or percolation pipes of the septic tank.

An Essential Part of a Standard Septic System

The lateral lines of a septic system are critical components of the system. They can be found in both home and commercial septic systems, depending on the application. The proper operation of lateral lines is critical to the proper operation of any septic system. Septic tank effluent has nowhere to go when they are obstructed or not functioning correctly, resulting in a backup of sewage and the failure of the system.

UK 2020 Septic Tank Guidelines

Beginning in 2020, every basic septic tank system in the United Kingdom will be required to have septic tank lateral lines or a percolation area constructed. Stream and watercourse discharges will not be authorized directly into the environment. In order to comply with the regulations between now and 2020, everyone who has a septic tank that discharges directly into a stream or watercourse is required to create a soakaway or percolation area. A percolation area or soakaway following a septic tank installation in an existing landscape is not usually straightforward.

Installing a household sewage treatment system might be a viable alternative approach.

Compared to the installation of a huge percolation area, it is significantly more cost-effective to replace a septic tank with a sewage treatment plant instead.

When purchasing a sewage treatment plant, it is important to search for exceptional value in conjunction with a system that is certified to EN12566-3 specifications.

How to Install Lateral Lines Correctly

It is recommended that you get professional assistance when constructing your percolation area or lateral line configuration. The effluent ponding on the ground surface might be caused by a poorly built percolation region that is not functioning properly. Consequently, before you begin any work, consult with a professional, arrange for a site study, and then make certain that the septic tank installation you hire is skilled and adequately insured. The number of lateral lines placed is a function of the amount of space available.

  • The number of people living in the house or structure
  • The kind of soil in the region
  • And the quantity of groundwater are all factors to consider.

How to Install a System Without Septic Tank Lateral Lines

Due to the fact that septic tank effluent is not treated to a high level of quality, lateral lines for septic tanks are typically necessary. A standard septic tank has a treatment level of roughly 30%, which is not very effective. A contemporary sewage treatment plant or aerobic sewage system, according to the contract, has a treatment efficiency of 95 percent or more. Systems such as the Biocell QuickOne achieve an even higher treatment level of 98 percent, resulting in effluent that is clean and transparent.

In other words, while an advanced sewage treatment system is more expensive than a standard septic tank, you save a significant amount of money by not having to add lateral connections.

Even if you do not have access to a stream or watercourse and you need to establish some lateral lines, you may install a lower number of lines after a sewage treatment plant since the effluent is much cleaner and it infiltrates into the ground much more easily after a sewage treatment facility.

How to Clean Septic Tank Lateral Lines

Septic tanks allow residents to flush their wastewater without having to join to a citywide sewage system, which is beneficial in some cases. At any one moment, the majority of the wastewater is contained in two tanks. They use a natural settling mechanism to separate the solid waste from the water it is being used to clean. Long, horizontal and perforated pipes, known as lateral lines, are used to discharge the residual water into a drain field, which is a waste water treatment facility. Cleaning Septic Tank Lateral Lines: A Step-by-Step Guide Image courtesy of MemorioImage/iStock/Getty Images.

Lateral Lines in a Septic System

Septic tanks allow residents to flush their wastewater without having to join to a citywide sewage system, which is beneficial in some situations. Most of the wastewater is contained in two tanks at any given time. They use a natural settling mechanism to separate the solid waste from the water it contains. Lateral lines, which are long, horizontal, and perforated pipes, are used to distribute the residual water into a drain field, where it is disposed of. Lateral Lines in a Septic Tank: How to Clean Them Image courtesy of MemoryImage/iStock/Getty Images

How to Clean Septic Tank Laterals

Septic systems may be accessible by homeowners or technicians through holes in the ground. A distribution box connects the lateral lines to the sludge tanks, which is where the sludge is collected. The box has a single input pipe on one side and numerous pipes – usually at least three – branching off on the other side or sides on the other side or sides of the box. The lateral lines are seen here. To flush these pipes, you can use one of a few of commonly available instruments. The first type of snake is that used by plumbers.

  1. Plumber’s snakes can be operated by hand or by connecting them to a power drill for more power and speed.
  2. The snake will open and release the blockage, allowing the materials to flow down the pipe when you flush the line later.
  3. With high water pressure blasting through the debris, this flexible line is threaded into each of the septic tank laterals and then into the main tank.
  4. The use of chemical cleaning agents is also an option, although in most cases, they do not yield substantial results.
  5. When selecting chemical additions, exercise caution because they have the potential to pollute the environment and degrade the quality of groundwater.

Septic System Cleaning Limitations

Septic systems may be accessible by homeowners or service workers through holes in the ground. A distribution box is used to link the lateral lines to the sludge tanks. The box has a single input pipe on one side and numerous pipes – usually at least three – branching off on the other side or sides on the other side or sides. Lateral lines are represented by the following symbols: The most frequent instruments for flushing these pipelines are the ones listed below: The first type of snake is that of a plumber.

  • Pipe fitting snakes can be manually wound or attached to a power drill for added strength.
  • It will open and loosen the blockage so that the items will be flushed away later on when the line is flushed with water.
  • With high water pressure blasting through the debris, this flexible hose is threaded into each of the septic tank laterals and then removed.
  • The use of chemical cleaning agents is also an option, although in most cases, they do not yield noticeable results.

When selecting chemical additions, exercise caution because they have the potential to pollute the environment and degrade the quality of drinking water.

Septic Tank Lateral Line Installation

Home-Diy It is critical to the overall operation of a septic system that the installation of lateral lines be done correctly. Approximately one-quarter inch per foot should be applied to the pitch of the lines. Pitch is important because it ensures that waste materials flow correctly through the pipes without clogging them. Even a pipe that is sloping downwards at an excessive rate might cause issues. if (sources.length) then this.parentNode.removeChild(sources); else this.onerror = null; this.src = fallback; if (sources.length) then this.parentNode.removeChild(sources); else if (sources.length) then this.parentNode.removeChild(sources); else if (sources.length) then this.parentNode.remove ‘/public/images/logo-fallback.png’) is a fallback logo image.

  • 4-inch PVC perforated pipe
  • A shovel
  • A backhoe
  • A bubble level
  • Rosin paper
  • And a tape measure

Tip

Dump the dirt onto the rosin paper slowly so that the rosin paper does not shift while you’re doing it.

Warning

Townships are in charge of enforcing their own building regulations. Check with your local building inspector to see whether or not a permit is required.

  1. Each lateral line should be inserted into one of the intake holes in the junction box. A quarter inch overhang into the junction box is required at each end of the pipes
  2. Otherwise, they must be flush with the side of the junction box
  3. The height of the pipes should be checked by measuring the distance from the bottom of the box to each input pipe’s bottom. Placing cement around the exterior of each pipe will help to keep the pipes connected to the junction box. Build a wall of stones around all four sides of the junction box until there are 10 to 12 inches of stone beneath the pipes. Gradually lower the stones until the slope is sloping down one-quarter inch per foot
  4. Install perforated pipes from the junction box to the absorption field, extending them in a parallel fashion across the absorption field. A quarter inch per foot of pipe spacing is required, with the pipes sloping down away from the junction box at a rate of one-quarter inch per foot of pipe spacing. Your township may be able to provide you with particular lengths based on your local construction rules. Fill the area surrounding the pipe and on top of it with stones to ensure that the pipe does not move. The pipe should be covered at least two inches above the top of the pipe. Lay red rosin paper on the stones to avoid the dirt from getting incorporated with the stones
  5. Fill the leftover soil into the drain field on top of the rosin paper
See also:  How To Set Rhombus Septic Tank Aerobic Timer?

The Drip Cap

  • It is critical to the overall operation of a septic system that the lateral lines be properly installed. Shovel stones around outside of the junction box until there is 10 to 12 inches of stone beneath the pipes. A quarter inch per foot of pipe spacing is required, with the pipes sloping down away from the junction box.

How Long Do Lateral Lines Last?

When it comes to septic system concerns, those who are not interested or who are outright dissatisfied with the subject matter may find it perplexing and complicated. Generally speaking, it is not a topic that most people are interested in on a regular basis. Only when the system itself is generating issues or when water or sludge begins to leak from the lateral lines is it appropriate to bring up the subject of wastewater treatment and disposal systems. To wait until such day, all of the relevant information is stored in the brains of septic professionals.

  • However, the good news is that lateral lines are often a long-lasting component of the total leach field system, and they will give years of uninterrupted service if they are properly maintained.
  • The biomat, which is managed by anaerobic bacteria, is responsible for the purification of the pre-treated effluent at this stage, which is completed by the anaerobic bacteria.
  • The greater the concentration of anaerobic bacteria in the drain field, the better the condition of its components, such as the lateral lines.
  • It is also connected to a distribution box, which performs the same function as well.
  • What is the duration of lateral lines?
  • It is possible that the lateral lines will remain in your property for at least 50 years if they are properly constructed and maintained.
  • Some of them make poor decisions and make blunders in their work lives as well.

If properly maintained, a standard drain field and set of lateral lines might survive for around twenty years or longer.

Lateral lines have different requirements depending on the drain fields in which they are built.

Maintaining your septic tank is the most crucial step in ensuring the health of your lateral lines and extending the tank’s lifespan.

It may be necessary to reroute the rain gutter away from the system area.

Planting trees near the sewage system is not recommended.

Lateral lines only fail when everything goes nuts from the beginning, when everything is starting from square one.

You should enforce tight guidelines for the appropriate use of the septic system.

Why don’t you take use of the talents and information that they have to give because it is their entire life and profession?

Your self-pity would be justified if you only discovered the need of adequate lateral line maintenance after your system had already failed.

A positive attitude toward self-improvement and getting into the right mode of operating a property and septic system is always a good thing. So it’s best to get started now than than later.

Septic Systems 101

Whether you’re new to septic systems or have been using them your entire life, there are a few things you should be aware of that can help you operate and treat your septic system more effectively. Due to the fact that each septic system is unique, yours may be a little different based on your specific scenario and requirements. In general, though, having a fundamental grasp of septic systems, plumbing, and everything in between is always beneficial! We’ve compiled a list of some of the most often asked questions concerning septic systems that we receive, as well as some popular themes that people are interested in, in the section below.

Please let us know if there is anything you’d want to see added to this list, or if you require any extra assistance.

We are always more than delighted to assist you!

Contents

  • Why Do Septic Systems Work? What Is a Septic System, and How Does It Work? Describe the many types of septic systems available.
  • Aerobibic septic system
  • Septic tank and field
  • Septic tank and seepage pit
  • Septic tank and lagoon
  • What is the best way to tell if I am on a septic system? Are there any? If so, what kind? How to Care for Your Septic System in a Safe and Effective Manner
  • The Importance of Pumping Your Septic System
  • What Happens If I Don’t Pump My System
  • What is the best way to treat my septic system? Is it even necessary to treat my system? Is It Possible to Damage My Septic System? In what condition will my septic system be in the future
  • Septic Systems in Close Proximity to a Well
  • Do I Need To Pump My System? The Consequences of Failure to Comply
  • Do I Need To Treat My Septic System? My Pumper / Neighbor has informed me that I am not required to do so. Is it possible to damage my septic system? Is it possible to overuse my septic system? Do I need to use special toilet paper for my home while it is on a septic system? Can I plant a garden on top of my septic field? Taking Care of a Gray Water System

What Is A Septic System?

Essentially, a septic system is a sort of residential wastewater system. Septic systems, in contrast to sewer systems, which feed into a larger wastewater system, are completely self-contained and do not connect to a larger sewer network.

How Does A Septic System Work (Septic Tank + Field)?

A septic system is constructed very simply. Typically, a septic tank and a lateral line system or leach field are used, although there are a few additional designs available as well. Explore these less common sorts of systems further by touching or clicking on the link provided. The septic tank itself is typically constructed of concrete and has a capacity of around 1,500 gallons on average. Following the flushing of waste down a toilet or the washing of waste down a drain, the septic tank is the first destination for your waste.

  • A separation of trash into scum and sludge takes place throughout the breakdown process.
  • However, the sludge layer, on the other hand, is often found toward the bottom of the tank.
  • Afterwards, when the residual wastewater has been separated from the scum and sludge, it runs out of the septic tank and onto the septic field (or leach field).
  • The lateral lines are lengthy sections of tubing, often constructed of PVC, that have been perforated with tiny holes to allow for ventilation.
  • Water from the septic system seeps out via the tiny gaps in these lateral lines and into the surrounding environment.
  • Aside from bacteria that break down any trash that may be left in the wastewater from your septic tank, Biomat also includes bacteria that help to keep the process going.

As soon as the liquid has exited via the lateral lines and passed through the biomat layer, it seeps (also known as “leaches”) into the soil and ultimately makes its way back into the groundwater as clean water as a result of evaporation.

What Kinds Of Septic Systems are there?

Septic systems are available in a variety of configurations. Understanding the sort of septic system you have will assist you in keeping things clean and running.

Septic Tank + Field

In the United States, septic tank + field systems account for the vast bulk of septic system installations. We’ve been talking about this sort of system for the most of the time so far in this essay. As previously stated, this sort of system works by collecting waste in a massive septic tank, where helpful bacteria break down the waste, dividing it into three distinct components: scum, sludge, and any residual wastewater liquid. Water from the tank collects in the scum and sludge, while wastewater goes out into the septic field, where it is scattered back into the earth as pure water.

Septic Tank + Seepage Pit

This sort of system collects garbage in a big tank, where bacterial activities break down the waste and divide it into three types of waste: scum, sludge, and wastewater. The scum and sludge stay in the tank, while the liquid waste drains into a big seepage hole at the bottom of the tank. This pit is punctured with a series of openings that allow the liquid to drain out and into the surrounding earth. When comparing this system to a typical septic system, the most significant distinction is that a seepage pit allows the liquid to sink deeper into the earth rather than across a vast field as in a traditional septic system.

Septic Tank + Lagoon

Waste from a septic system that discharges into a lagoon is collected in a big septic tank, where microorganisms break down the waste, much as they do in other systems. When the liquid waste departs the tank, it pours out into a lagoon or pond-like body of water, which is a large body of water.

Aerobic System

Aerobic systems provide oxygen into a waste tank in order to stimulate the activity of aerobic microorganisms. Normal septic systems will experience increased activity of anaerobic bacteria in the absence of adequate oxygen supply (aka “bad” bacteria that stink). Anaerobic bacteria are frequently less productive than their aerobic counterparts. It follows that the effluent (or wastewater that comes out of a septic tank) from an aerobic system is substantially “cleaner” than the effluent from a conventional septic system in the larger picture.

Aerobic systems are discussed in further detail here (touch or click here).

How Do I Determine If I Am On A Septic System? And If So, What Type?

In the event that you are unsure whether or not you have a septic system in place, there are a few things to look out for that may suggest that you do in fact have a septic system. Here are a few examples of common indicators:

  • Do you happen to reside in a remote area? Due to the fact that many rural areas are not connected to a sewage system, private septic systems are becoming increasingly popular in rural areas. In your backyard or in the fields around your home, are there any obvious lids or risers to be found? In most cases, they are entry points to your septic tank, but they can also be symptoms that your system is malfunctioning. Do you have a stand pipe in your backyard or field? If so, where? This pipe is also an indication that you have a septic system that is connected to your home’s plumbing system. Are you drinking from a well? Many homes that are connected to a well also rely on a septic system as their primary method of waste disposal.

Is your home in a remote or rural area? Individual septic systems are becoming increasingly popular in rural areas because many of them are not connected to a sewer system. In your backyard or in the fields near your house, are there any apparent lids or risers? In most cases, these are entry points to your septic tank, but they can also be symptoms that your system is malfunctioning; Does your backyard or field have a stand pipe? If so, where is it? Moreover, this line serves as an indication that your home’s plumbing is connected to a septic system.

Septic systems serve as the primary means of waste removal for many residences that are connected to a well.

How To Care For Your Septic System Safely

Your septic system will eventually become overburdened with waste. Manual removal of this garbage from the system will be required. Pumping is the method through which this solid waste is removed from the environment. We advised that you engage a septic system pumping service to remove the waste from your system. A septic system should be pumped out once every three years on average, however utilizing a product like Unique Septic System Digester can help to lengthen the period between pump outs.

See also:  What Is Average Cost To Replace Collapsed Septic Tank? (Perfect answer)
What If I Don’t Pump My System?

Failure to pump a septic tank might result in devastating consequences. For example, foul odors escaping from your house’s drains, drain backups, flooding in your home, and standing water in your septic field are all potential consequences of this situation. In order to avoid this, it is important to keep track of how full your tank is by doing a personal or professional examination on a regular basis!

How Do I Treat My Septic System?

To ensure that your septic system is free of backups and continues to function properly, it is recommended that you treat it on a regular basis. Unique Septic System Digester is a product that we suggest. Septic System Digester is available in a number of various dose techniques; simply touch or clickhereto find out which approach is appropriate for your system’s needs. In the long term, using Septic System Digester on a regular basis will save you a significant amount of money.

Is It Necessary To Treat My System?

In a perfect environment, a septic system treatment would not be required; nonetheless, complications might emerge when a treatment technique is not used, which is sad. If you do not treat your septic system on a regular basis, you may have backups, obstructions, and unpleasant odors.

Can I Damage My Septic System?

A precise bacterial balance is required for septic systems to function properly and break down waste. Hazardous or caustic chemicals can be used to kill off the bacteria and stop the breakdown process, which might result in backlog and smells in the sewer system. Non-stop use of inappropriate chemicals can cause harm to your septic system, but it’s also possible to cause problems by overusing the chemicals you use. Even though overuse might differ depending on your septic system, it’s better to avoid activities that require you to send large amounts of water through your septic system in a 24-hour period.

Damage to the septic tank itself might be caused by tree roots that have spread out.

How Long Will My Septic System Last?

A well constructed and maintained septic system should endure for at least 40 years, if not longer.

Common Questions

If your system is correctly designed, the fact that it is placed near a well should not pose a problem for you.

You should, however, call a septic system inspector and schedule a time for your well water to be checked for cross-contamination concerns, leaks, or other problems.

Do I Have To Pump My System? What Happens If I Don’t?

Yes. You do, in fact, need to prime your system. Over time, the trash in your septic system will accumulate. This waste has to be manually removed from the system in order to function properly. A failure to do so will result in sewage backing up into your home, which will stink and necessitate additional costly problems. Pumping is the method through which this solid waste is removed from the environment. We advised that you engage a septic system pumping service to remove the waste from your system.

By utilizing the Unique Septic System Digester, you will be able to increase the time between pump outs significantly.

Do I Have To Treat My Septic System? My Pumper / Neighbor Says I Don’t Have To. What Happens If I Don’t?

The treatment of your system is highly suggested for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, treating your system on a regular basis will increase the time between pump outs, allowing you to save money. Second, treating your system provides you with peace of mind, knowing that you will not be subjected to any unpleasant scents or water that moves slowly through your system.

Can I Damage My Septic System?

Septic systems function by utilizing a very delicate balance of bacteria in your tank to break down the waste that is generated by your system. Using harsh or caustic chemicals can kill off the bacteria and prevent the breakdown process from taking place, resulting in blockages and smells in the system. Non-stop use of inappropriate chemicals can cause harm to your septic system, but it’s also possible to cause problems by overusing the chemicals you use. Even though overuse might differ depending on your septic system, it’s better to avoid activities that require you to send large amounts of water through your septic system in a 24-hour period.

Damage to the septic tank itself might be caused by tree roots that have spread out.

Can I Overuse My Septic System?

It is possible to experience problems as a result of excessive usage. It is advisable to avoid activities that require passing large quantities of water through your septic system in a 24-hour period, depending on your septic system’s capabilities.

Do I Need To Use Special Toilet Paper For My Home On A Septic System?

Many people who own septic systems are concerned about the type of toilet paper that should be used in their systems. The answer is straightforward: as long as you are using a Unique Septic System Digester, you may use any toilet paper that you would normally use in a standard sewage system without difficulty. You won’t have to worry about blockages in your septic system because of the bacteria in Septic System Digester, which will break down toilet paper extremely effectively.

Can I Plant A Garden On Top Of My Septic Field?

Many people who have septic systems choose to utilize the water from their sewage system to irrigate their lawn and garden. This may be a highly beneficial use of septic system water, but it is important to exercise caution when selecting the plants to be planted. Anything with a complex or extensive root system should be avoided. Make sure to stay away from anything that needs you to dig deeper than a few inches into the earth, as this might disrupt the delicate balance of your septic system.

According to some sites, it’s safe up to a certain distance, but here at Unique, we recommend that you avoid it entirely, purely for the purpose of being excessively careful.

How Gray Water Systems Work

A grey water system is a collection system for all of the water that is not connected to your septic system. Because this water does not include any typical waste materials, it originates from sources such as bathroom sinks, showers, bathtubs, and laundry lines (NOTE: Kitchen sinks and dish-washing lines are NOT part of the grey water system, as they contain food waste). The water from the grey water pipes is routed through a modest filtering system before being collected in a small holding tank, which is often only large enough to contain a few gallons of water.

The water collected by this grey water system is subsequently utilized to irrigate a garden, a line of trees, or other landscaping project.

Treating A Gray Water System

Keeping your grey water system clean and clear is a good and required habit in order to keep everything running smoothly. To use Unique Septic System Digester, we recommend that you pour 2 oz into the drain located in either your bathtub or shower once a month. Incorporating Septic System Digester into your grey water system will guarantee that your filtration system will last for a longer period of time and will avoid any sluggish flowing water that may arise as a result of accumulation inside the lateral lines.

Home Performance Group LLC

Do you require services for septic system installation or repair? When it comes to garbage disposal, having a well-maintained system is critical! Septic tanks and drain fields are cleaned, repaired, and installed on a regular basis by our professionals. Call (816) 744-8033 to speak with a member of our skilled and professional staff who will get the work done perfectly the first time. The following are some of the services we provide for septic systems:

  • Lagoon installation and repair as well as Septic System design and repair, Septic tank installation, Aeration Treatment Unit installation, Lateral installation and repair as well as Lagoon installation and repair Installation of low-pressure pipes
  • Repair of low-pressure pipes
  • Installation of high-pressure drip lines
  • Repair of high-pressure drip lines

Providing an essential service by collecting, treating, and disposing of wastewater is the septic system’s primary role in the home. It is critical to provide proper care and maintenance on a regular basis. For the most part, septic systems are comprised of two parts: an inlet septic tank for solid wastes and a disposal field for liquid wastes. Lateral lines or pipes carry the effluent to the drain field, where it is discharged into the environment. Tanks should be properly examined at least once every two years, and they should be cleaned every three to five years, according to the manufacturer.

Professional Septic System Services

Home Performance Group LLC provides the services required to keep septic systems in the greater Kansas City region operating safely and reliably over the long haul. Contact us now. In order to detect tanks and laterals, diagnose failures, pump out tanks, safeguard the environment from water contamination, and manage difficulties with outdated septic systems that weren’t built to handle current demand, our trained workers combine expertise, experience, and tools.

We adhere to all applicable codes, make every attempt to cause the least amount of inconvenience to your property, and provide unsurpassed quality of workmanship.

For septic tank and lateral line maintenance or repair, call Home Performance Group LLC!

Home Performance Group LLC provides timely service to help you extend the life of your septic system and laterals, prevent issues from occurring, and fix any sort of malfunction. We may be reached at (816) 744-8033 to arrange a time that is suitable for you. We have deals and financing available to make everyday living more reasonable for you. You can count on us to take care of all of your plumbing requirements in Kearney and the surrounding areas, including Liberty and Excelsior Springs. Smithville and Pleasant Valley.

  • Weatherby Lake and Gladstone, MO.
  • Each of these statements is theoretically valid, however there are more than eight different types and configurations of OWTS to choose from.
  • A soils morphology test is required in order to correctly design an OWTS system and submit a system permit application for the system.
  • When designing an OWTS system, soil conditions are critical since the soil serves as a filter, exchanger, and absorber in addition to other functions.
  • A septic tank offers initial treatment by separating particles from wastewater, ensuring that effluent entering the soil is purified before it is released into the environment.
  • In soils that are unable of supporting a simple OWTS system, a septic tank and surface lagoon can be used as an alternate solution.
  • Lagoons are a more cost-effective alternative to more complicated systems because of their size.
  • The system is comprised of a septic tank, a pumping chamber for pressure dosing, and a soil distribution piping system with a small diameter pipe diameter.
  • a few quick facts According to the Environmental Protection Agency, private on-site waste treatment systems are used by 20 percent of all houses in the United States to handle their garbage.

Septic or decentralized treatment systems are used to service about one-third of all new developments and single-family dwellings. Septic systems provide service to more than 60 million people in the United States.

LEARN MORE about Septic System Installation:

  • Septic System Installation | Why Do I Need a Soil Morphology Test
  • Do I Need an Alternative Septic System
  • What is the Purpose of a Septic Tank
  • Why Should I Get a Septic Inspection
  • Septic System Installation | Why Do I Need a Soil Morphology Test
  • Septic System Installation | Why Should I Get a Septic Inspection

How Your Septic System Works

Underground wastewater treatment facilities, known as septic systems, are often employed in rural regions where there are no centralized sewage lines. They clean wastewater from residential plumbing, such as that produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry, by combining natural processes with well-established technology. A conventional septic system is comprised of two components: a septic tank and a drainfield, often known as a soil absorption field. It is the septic tank’s job to decompose organic matter and to remove floatable stuff (such as oils and grease) and solids from wastewater.

Alternate treatment systems rely on pumps or gravity to assist septic tank effluent in trickling through a variety of media such as sand, organic matter (e.g., peat and sawdust), constructed wetlands, or other media to remove or neutralize pollutants such as pathogens that cause disease, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other contaminants.

Specifically, this is how a typical conventional septic system works:

  1. All of the water that leaves your home drains down a single main drainage pipe and into a septic tank. An underground, water-tight container, often composed of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene, serves as a septic system’s holding tank. Its function is to retain wastewater for a long enough period of time to allow particles to sink to the bottom and form sludge, while oil and grease float to the surface and produce scum. Sludge and scum are prevented from exiting the tank and moving into the drainfield region by compartments and a T-shaped outlet. After that, the liquid wastewater (effluent) exits the tank and flows into the drainfield. The drainfield is a shallow, covered hole dug in unsaturated soil that serves as a drainage system. Porous surfaces are used to release pretreated wastewater because they allow the wastewater to pass through the soil and into the groundwater. In the process of percolating through the soil, wastewater is accepted, treated, and dispersed by the soil, finally discharging into groundwater. Finally, if the drainfield becomes overburdened with too much liquid, it can flood, causing sewage to flow to the ground surface or resulting in toilet backups and sink backups. Finally, wastewater percolates into the soil, where it is naturally removed of harmful coliform bacteria, viruses, and nutrients. Coliform bacteria are a kind of bacteria that may be found in the intestines of humans and other warm-blooded animals, with humans being the most common host. As a result of human fecal contamination, it is a sign of this.
See also:  What To Do When Indoor Tank Alarm For Septic System? (Solved)

The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority has built an animated, interactive model of how a residential septic system works, which you can view here.

Do you have a septic system?

It’s possible that you’re already aware that you have a septic system. If you are not sure, here are some tell-tale symptoms that you most likely are:

  • You make use of well water. In your home, the water pipe that brings water into the house does not have a meter. In the case of a water bill or a property tax bill, you will see “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged.” It is possible that your neighbors have a septic system

How to find your septic system

You can locate your septic system once you have confirmed that you have one by following these steps:

  • Taking a look at the “as constructed” drawing of your house
  • Making a visual inspection of your yard for lids and manhole covers
  • Getting in touch with a septic system service provider for assistance in locating it

Failure symptoms: Mind the signs!

A bad odor is not necessarily the first indicator of a septic system that is failing to work properly. Any of the following signs should prompt you to seek expert assistance:

  • Water backing up into the drains of homes and businesses
  • It is especially noticeable in dry weather that the drainfield grass is bright green and spongy. The presence of standing water or muddy soil near your septic system or in your basement
  • A strong stench emanating from the area surrounding the septic tank and drainfield

A Beginner’s Guide to Septic Systems

  • Septic systems are used to dispose of waste from homes and buildings. Identifying the location of the septic tank and drainfield
  • What a Septic System Is and How It Works Keeping a Septic System in Good Condition
  • Signs that a septic system is failing include:

Septic systems, also known as on-site wastewater management systems, are installed in a large number of buildings and houses. It is easy to lose sight of septic systems, which operate quietly, gracefully, and efficiently to protect human and environmental health due to their burying location. Septic systems are the norm in rural regions, but they may also be found in a lot of metropolitan places, especially in older buildings. It is critical to understand whether or not your building is on a septic system.

Is Your Home or Building on a Septic System?

It is possible that the solution to this question will not be evident. If a structure looks to be connected to a sewage system, it may instead be connected to a septic system. It is fairly unusual for tenants to be unaware of the final destination of the wastewater generated by their residence. Some of the hints or signs listed below will assist in determining whether the facility is served by a septic system or whether it is supplied by a sewer system:

  • Sewer service will be provided at a cost by the city or municipality. Pay close attention to the water bill to see whether there is a cost labeled “sewer” or “sewer charge” on it. If there is a fee for this service, it is most likely because the facility is connected to a sewage system. Look up and down the street for sewage access ports or manholes, which can be found in any location. If a sewage system runs in front of a property, it is probable that the house is connected to it in some way. Inquire with your neighbors to see if they are connected to a sewer or septic system. The likelihood that your home is on a sewer system is increased if the properties on each side of you are on one as well. Keep in mind, however, that even if a sewage line runs in front of the structure and the nearby residences are connected to a sewer system, your home or building may not be connected to one. If the structure is older than the sewer system, it is possible that it is still on the original septic system. Consult with your local health agency for further information. This agency conducts final inspections of septic systems to ensure that they comply with applicable laws and regulations. There is a possibility that they have an archived record and/or a map of the system and will supply this information upon request

All property owners should be aware of whether or not their property is equipped with an on-site wastewater treatment system.

Georgia law mandates that the property owner is responsible for the correct operation of a septic system, as well as any necessary maintenance and repairs.

Locating the Septic Tank and Drainfield

Finding a septic system may be a difficult process. They can be buried anywhere in the yard, including the front, back, and side yards. After a few years, the soil may begin to resemble the surrounding soil, making it impossible to distinguish the system from the surrounding soil. It is possible that in dry weather, the grass will be dryer in the shallow soil over the tank and greener over the drainfield, where the cleansed water will be released, but this is not always the case, especially in hot weather.

  1. The contractor who built the house should have presented the initial owner with a map showing the tank and drainfield locations, according to the building code.
  2. The installation of the system, as well as any modifications made to it, would have been examined by your local health authority.
  3. Unfortunately, if the system is very old, any records related with it may be insufficient or nonexistent, depending on the situation.
  4. Look for the point at where the wastewater pipes join together if the building is on a crawlspace or has an unfinished basement.
  5. The sewer line that runs through the structure is referred to as the building sewer.
  6. To “feel” for the tank, use a piece of re-bar or a similar metal probe.
  7. If you use this free service, you may avoid accidentally putting a rod through your gas or water line.

Try to locate the tank after a rainstorm, when the metal probe will be more easily maneuvered through moist dirt.

This should be done with care; extreme caution should be exercised to avoid puncturing the building sewer.

A tank is normally 5 by 8 feet in size, however the dimensions might vary.

Be aware that there may be rocks, pipes, and other debris in the area that “feels” like the tank but is not in fact part of the tank.

However, it is possible to have the lid or access port positioned on a riser in addition to being on the same level as the top of the tank in some cases.

Once the tank has been identified, make a rough drawing of its placement in relation to the house so that it will not be misplaced again!

It may be easier to discover the drainage lines now that the tank has been identified, particularly if the area has been subjected to prolonged periods of drought.

How a Septic System Works

Typical sewage treatment system (figure 1). It is composed of three components (Figure 1): the tank, the drain lines or discharge lines, and the soil treatment area (also known as the soil treatment area) (sometimes called a drainfield or leach field). The size of the tank varies according to the size of the structure. The normal home (three bedrooms, two bathrooms) will often include a 1,000-gallon water storage tank on the premises. Older tanks may only have one chamber, however newer tanks must have two chambers.

  1. The tank functions by settling waste and allowing it to be digested by microbes.
  2. These layers include the bottom sludge layer, the top scum layer, and a “clear” zone in the center.
  3. A typical septic tank is seen in Figure 2.
  4. It is fortunate that many of the bacteria involved are found in high concentrations in the human gastrointestinal tract.
  5. Although the bacteria may break down some of the stuff in the sludge, they are unable to break down all of it, which is why septic tanks must be cleaned out every three to seven years.
  6. In addition, when new water is introduced into the septic tank, an equal volume of water is pushed out the discharge lines and onto the drainfield.
  7. The water trickles out of the perforated drain pipes, down through a layer of gravel, and into the soil below the surface (Figure 3).
  8. A typical drainfield may be found here.
  9. Plants, bacteria, fungus, protozoa, and other microorganisms, as well as bigger critters such as mites, earthworms, and insects, flourish in soil.
  10. Mineralogical and metallic elements attach to soil particles, allowing them to be removed from the waste water.

Maintaining a Septic System

The most typical reason for a septic system to fail is a lack of proper maintenance. Septic systems that are failing are expensive to repair or replace, and the expense of repairs rests on the shoulders of the property owner (Figure 4). Fortunately, keeping your septic system in good working order and avoiding costly repairs is rather simple. Figure 4. Septic system failure is frequently caused by a lack of proper maintenance. It is in your best interests to be aware of the location of the system, how it operates, and how to maintain it.

  1. You should pump the tank if you aren’t sure when the last time it was pumped.
  2. It is not permissible to drive or park over the tank or drainage field.
  3. No rubbish should be disposed of in the sink or the toilet.
  4. It’s important to remember that garbage disposals enhance the requirement for regular pumping.
  5. When designing a landscape, keep the septic system in mind.
  6. It is also not recommended to consume veggies that have been cultivated above drainfield lines (see Dorn, S.
  7. Ornamental Plantings on Septic Drainfields.

C 1030).

Any water that enters your home through a drain or toilet eventually ends up in your septic system.

Don’t put too much strain on the system by consuming a large amount of water in a short period of time.

Additives should not be used.

Various types of additives are available for purchase as treatment options, cleansers, restorers, rejuvenator and boosters, among other things.

To break up oil and grease and unclog drains, chemical additives are available for purchase.

Pumping out the septic tank is not eliminated or reduced by using one of these systems.

They remain floating in the water and travel into the drainfield, where they may block the pipes. Acids have the potential to damage concrete storage tanks and distribution boxes.

Signs a Septic System is Failing

A failed system manifests itself in the following ways:

  • Sinks and toilets drain at a snail’s pace
  • Plumbing that is backed up
  • The sound of gurgling emanating from the plumbing system House or yard aromas that smell like sewage
  • In the yard, there is wet or squishy dirt
  • Water that is gray in hue that has accumulated
  • An region of the yard where the grass is growing more quickly and is becoming greener
  • Water contaminated by bacteria from a well

If you notice any of these indicators, you should notify your local health department immediately. An environmentalist from the health department can assist in identifying possible hazards. There are also listings of state-certified contractors available from the local health department, who may do repairs. Repairs or alterations to the system must be approved by the health department and examined by an inspector. Keep an eye out for any meetings that may take place between a health department inspector and a contractor to discuss repairs to your system.

  1. Household garbage that has not been properly handled is released into the environment when systems fail.
  2. It has the potential to pollute surrounding wells, groundwater, streams, and other sources of potable water, among other things.
  3. The foul odor emanating from a malfunctioning system can cause property values to plummet.
  4. Briefly stated, broken systems can have an impact on your family, neighbors, community, and the environment.
  5. Septic systems are an effective, attractive, and reasonably priced method of treating and disposing of wastewater.

Figures 2 and 3 reprinted with permission from: CIDWT. 2009. Installation of Wastewater Treatment Systems. Consortium of Institutes for Decentralized Wastewater Treatment. Iowa State University, Midwest Plan Service. Ames, IA.

History of the current status and revisions Published on the 15th of August, 2013. Published on March 28th, 2017 with a full review.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *