What To Do With Out Of Ground Septic Tank? (Question)

Above ground, sewage tanks are ideally suited for storing effluent waste temporarily. This means that they can be used industrially for large public buildings such as toilet blocks, kitchens or canteens, or at the rear of smaller holiday homes like cabins and caravans.

  • Under worst conditions, pumping it out could cause the tank to try to float out of the ground and may damage the inlet and outlet pipes. The best solution is to plug all drains in the basement and drastically reduce water use in the house.

Are above ground septic tanks good?

Above ground holding / septic tanks are ideal for bulk waste storage. We offer them 250, 300 and 440 gallons. They are made out of HDPE plastic and are black in color. They are great for storage under trailers.

Can septic system be above ground?

An above ground septic system, also known as a sand mound septic system, is used for the on-site treatment of sewage when site conditions are not suitable for installing a conventional septic system due to the increased risk of the system failing.

Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?

The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.

How do you empty an above ground holding tank?

There are 3 basic ways to dump your holding tanks at home:

  1. Using a bucket. (This works best for smaller amounts of waste.)
  2. By macerating or mashing.
  3. Dumping directly into your home’s septic tank or cleanout without macerating.

How deep should a septic tank be in the ground?

The general rule of thumb is that most septic tanks can be buried anywhere from four inches to four feet underground.

How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?

How much does it cost to pump out a septic tank? The average cost is $300, but can run up to $500, depending on your location. The tank should be pumped out every three to five years.

How long does it take to put a septic tank in the ground?

Rely on the Experts If the land is not ideal, it may take extra time to excavate or get the soil suitable for leaching. The permitting process could delay progress, or even weather can be a factor. However, on average, it takes about 7 days for a knowledgeable team to get your system set up.

Are septic tanks still legal?

Septic Tanks Explained… Septic tanks cannot discharge to surface water drains, rivers, canals, ditches, streams or any other type of waterway. you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.

What is an alternative to a leach field?

Sand Filter This is one example of an alternative septic system without a leach field, which makes it compatible with environmentally sensitive areas. In some cases, the treated water can pass directly from the sand filtration system to the soil without needing to flow through more piping to a leach field.

Is a leach field necessary?

Septic System without A Leach Field You can probably guess, now, that a septic system is incomplete without a leach field. With only a septic tank, you can find yourself needing to empty the tank almost monthly! That is because the leach field is responsible for safely getting rid of the wastewater.

Do above ground septic tanks smell?

A properly-maintained septic tank should be odor-free, so if you notice a bad smell inside your home or outside near the leach field, it’s a sign that there’s a problem. Septic odors are caused by gases in the system, including carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane.

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 much space do you need for a mound septic system?

Unlike conventional systems the mound system will require two separate tanks. The first will be a standard septic tank buried at a depth of 10 to 16 inches and located a minimum of 10 feet from the foundation of the house. Both tanks need to be level and square.

HOW TO SAFELY ABANDON AN OLD SEPTIC TANK ON YOUR PROPERTY

If you’ve recently purchased an older house, it’s possible that a septic tank is located on the property. This is true even if your home is currently linked to the municipal water and sewer systems. A prior owner may have abandoned the ancient septic system and connected to the city sewage system when it became accessible at some time in the past. Despite the fact that there are standards in place today for properly leaving a septic tank, it was typical practice years ago to just leave the tanks in place and forget about them.

The old tank may either be demolished or filled with water to solve the problem.

It is possible that permits and inspections will be required.

They are dangerous because curious children may pry open the lid and fall into the container.

  1. Falls into a septic tank can be lethal owing to the toxicity of the contents and the fact that concrete can collapse on top of you while falling into a tank.
  2. Eventually, this practice was phased out due to the fact that the steel would rust and make the tank susceptible to collapse.
  3. When it comes to ancient septic tanks, they are similar to little caves with a lid that might collapse at any time.
  4. The old tank is crushed and buried, or it is removed from the site.
  5. If it is made of steel, it will almost certainly be crushed and buried in its current location.
  6. After that, the tank can be completely filled with sand, gravel, or any other form of rubble and buried.
  7. Tanks can either be entirely dismantled or destroyed and buried in their original location.

The abandonment has been documented and plotted on a map.

It’s possible that you’ll forget about the tank once it’s been abandoned.

As a result, you might wish to sketch a map of the area where the old tank used to stand.

If you can demonstrate that an old septic tank was properly decommissioned, you may be able to increase the value of your property, and the new owners will enjoy knowing that large chunks of concrete are buried underground before they start digging in the yard to put something in it.

It may take some detective work to learn about the history of your property and what may be lurking beneath the surface of the soil.

Upon discovering an old septic tank on your property that is no longer in use, contact Total Enviro Services for propertank abandonment procedures that comply with local codes and protect your family, pets, and farm animals from harm or death.

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 numerous other 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

This tank is subterranean and waterproof, and it was designed and built specifically for the purpose of receiving and treating raw home sanitary wastewater. Generally speaking, heavy solids settle at or near the bottom of the tank, whereas greases and lighter solids float to the top. In contrast, the wastewater is discharged to a drainfield for further treatment and dispersion, while the solids remain in the tank.

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 significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions over 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 large mound of soil because the drip laterals are only inserted 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.

This method necessitates the use of additional components, such as electrical power, which results in a rise in costs as well as higher maintenance.

Aerobic Treatment Unit

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) are small-scale wastewater treatment facilities that use many of the same processes 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 some aerobic systems will also include a pretreatment tank as well as a final treatment tank that will include disinfection in order to further reduce 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 discharge 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 application. 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 pumped 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 expensive than a conventional septic system because they provide a higher level of nutrient treatment and are therefore better suited for sites with high water tables or that are close 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. These systems perform effectively in shallow soil; but, if it rains or snows excessively, they are at risk of failing completely.

Constructed Wetland System

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

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

Cluster / Community System

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 common in places like rural subdivisions, where they can be found in large numbers.

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.

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

Above Ground Septic System: How They Work and Their Advantages

Because of the greater risk of failure associated with traditional septic systems, when site circumstances are not ideal for establishing a conventional septic system, an above ground septic system, also known as a sand mound system, is utilized for on-site sewage treatment. A look at the key factors that might cause a septic system to fail, the implications of a failure, and how an above-ground septic system can provide a solution to these issues are discussed in this article. Every home that is not connected to a sewage system requires some means of treating the sewage that is generated by the people who live in the home in which they are located.

In most cases, these are comprised of an underground concrete, plastic, or fiberglass chamber divided into two compartments.

The solids are treated anaerobically within the chambers, while the remaining effluent is discharged via gravity into a drain field, where it is naturally filtered by microorganisms in the soil before being discharged into the groundwater beneath the surface.

Typically, there are three naturally occurring conditions that make it impossible to install a conventional underground septic tank system that discharges to a conventional drain field.

  1. When the percolation rate of the soil is too slow or too fast, the soil’s permeability is reduced. Effluent will reach groundwater without being adequately filtered or treated by microorganisms in highly permeable soils (such as very sandy soils) with a fast percolation rate in highly permeable soils. It is possible, however, that water will not drain away quickly enough in soils with poor permeability (such as clay soils) and a low percolation rate because of this. A result of this may be waterlogging in surrounding soils and surface ponding that can be hazardous to human health and well-being in the long run. As previously stated, the primary goal of a drainage field is to allow for the unsaturated flow of effluent to the groundwater, which exposes the wastewater to microorganisms in the soil that break down waste and destroy pathogens, it is critical that the soil does not become too saturated in order for treatment to be effective (as explained in greater detail below).
  1. When there is a limited layer, which is often a shallow layer of soil sitting over a layer of clay, porous bedrock, or perched groundwater wedged between rock and soil, the effluent treatment efficacy is reduced as it filters through the soil. Having a high water table occurs when there is insufficient distance between the drainfield and the water table to filter and treat the effluent before it reaches the water table, resulting in the groundwater becoming polluted and potentially endangering drinking water supplies. If the groundwater becomes polluted, the contaminants can be transferred away from the location via lateral groundwater movement, contaminating neighboring freshwater systems
  2. Should this occur.

The use of a traditional septic system is not recommended when one or more of the circumstances listed above exist because the septic system is more likely to collapse, creating an environmental and human health hazard. Above-ground septic systems, which allow for more suitable conditions to be established above ground level by artificially increasing the height of the filter bed, are a more acceptable sewage treatment option in these types of situations, and are becoming increasingly popular.

Protecting EnvironmentalHuman Health

Grey water (from sources such as bathing/showering, laundry, dishwashing, and so on) and black water (from sources such as toilets, sinks, and so on) constitute household wastewater (human waste). If not treated properly, this effluent can contain a wide range of chemical pollutants and pathogenic organisms that can be harmful to our health if not treated properly. Typhoid, cholera, dysentery, giardiasis and other gastrointestinal illnesses can occur as a result of the presence of disease-causing microbes in human feces.

When clay or tight soils are prevalent, a sand mound system is used.

loading=”lazy” src=”is-pending-load=1 038;ssl=1″ alt=”above ground septic system” loading=”lazy” src=”is-pending-load=1 038;ssl=1″ width: 501 pixels, height: 571 pixels ” data-recalc-dims=”1″ data-lazy-src=” is-pending-load=1 038; ssl=”” srcset=”data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAP” data-recalc-dims=”1″ data-lazy-src=” is-pending-load=” is-pending-load=1 038; ssl=”” data-recalc Septic system with a sand mound The contamination of soils, groundwater, and surface water systems by improperly treated human waste can pose a health risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, whether directly or indirectly, for example, through the consumption of contaminated water, the consumption of contaminated food (e.g., fruits, vegetables, shellfish), or the swimming in contaminated rivers, lakes, or coastal bays Furthermore, because untreated sewage is both unattractive and foul-smelling, it is definitely not something you want to have pooling up on your back yard lawn.

The opposite appears to be true, as flies, rodents, and even the family dog are drawn to it like bees to a honeypot, spreading it around the house, as well as any diseases that may be lurking inside it, according to the author.

Infants who are exposed to nitrates in their drinking water can develop blue baby syndrome, which is characterized by a decrease in the ability of the blood to transport oxygen, and which can be fatal.

Take a look at our above-ground septic system maintenance plan for more information on how to maintain these sorts of systems operating efficiently for extended periods of time.

How do Sand Mound Septic Systems Work?

Wastewater is channeled from the residence to a septic tank, where it is pumped to a sand mound positioned above ground level, where it is spread equally over the drain field. When wastewater is discharged into the drain field, it percolates through the sand and gravel bed, where microorganisms in the soil digest any harmful bacteria that may be present.

Removal of Pathogens

The vertical barrier between the septic system and the groundwater serves as the first line of defense in the fight against disease transmission. Because of this, it is critical that there is sufficient depth between the two to allow the community of microorganisms (good bacteria, fungi, protozoans, and nematode worms) that live in the soil to do their jobs. The depth between the two should be at least six inches. These germs, in contrast to the anaerobic bacteria that live inside the septic tank, require oxygen to thrive and perform their functions.

Another key point to remember about these microorganisms is that they reside on the surface of the soil particles, where they filter toxins from the effluent as it passes past them through air gaps between the grains of soil.

The microorganisms that have taken up home in the system are the blue-collar employees who maintain the system operating at peak performance.

Removal of Nutrients

Septic systems that have vegetation planted in them not only seem more visually beautiful, but they also perform better in terms of overall performance. Water absorbed by the plant roots from the soil serves two purposes: 1) it reduces the likelihood of the soil becoming waterlogged, and 2) it allows the plants to absorb dissolved nutrients (such as those responsible for blue baby syndrome and algal blooms) for their own growth, thereby reducing the risk of the soil becoming waterlogged. However, it is critical to choose vegetation wisely, preferably grass and/or small plants with shallow root systems rather than large trees and shrubs.

Key Components of an Above Ground Septic System

Generally speaking, above-ground septic systems are comprised of three major components: 1) a septic tank (pretreatment unit), 2) a dosing chamber that houses the pump, and 3) an above-ground sand mound that acts as a drainage bed for the system.

The Septic Tank

This enormous concrete, polyethene, or fibreglass chamber that is buried below serves as a pretreatment separation chamber. The septic tank is where the effluent from the home is disposed of. Upon entering the tank, the wastewater divides into three layers: the heavier solid matter (sludge) falls to the bottom, the middle layer consists primarily of liquid effluent, and the lighter particles (scum) float to the top. The anaerobic bacteria that flourish in these oxygen-free circumstances breakdown some of the sludge that accumulates at the bottom of the septic tank’s bottom.

With the assistance of gravity, the liquid effluent is subsequently channeled from the septic tank into the dosing chamber through a conduit.

The Dosing Chamber

The septic tank (where pretreatment separation takes place) is a massive concrete, polyethene, or fibreglass chamber that is buried beneath the soil. The septic tank receives the wastewater generated by the household. Once in the tank, the wastewater divides into three layers: the heavier solid matter (sludge) falls to the bottom, the middle layer is made up of liquid effluent, and the lighter particles (scum) float to the surface of the water. In the septic tank’s bottom, anaerobic bacteria, which flourish in an oxygen-free environment, partially breakdown the sludge, allowing it to be disposed of.

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The Sand Mound

Essentially, the sand mound is a drainage field that has been intentionally constructed by raising a drainage bed above the natural surface of the surrounding land. It is made up of a bed of sand and gravel that has a distribution system made up of perforated pipes that transports the water. The effluent in the dosing chamber is pushed up to the mound at low pressure in order to guarantee that it is distributed evenly throughout the drainage bed. The effluent then trickles out of the tiny holes in the pipes and down through a bed of gravel into a sand mound beneath the pipe system.

Things to Consider WhenDesigningSand Mound Septic Systems

When planning to build an above-ground septic system, it is critical to understand the soil qualities of the area in question. It is important to have a professional soil evaluation performed by a trained soil analyzer to get the best results. According to your location, this may be required by law, but even if it is not, it is still a good idea to do so in order to determine the flow rate of the soil so that the septic system can be designed and sized for optimal performance according to the specific site conditions on which it is installed.

Some regions need the creation of a designated space for the construction of a replacement mound — it is always a good idea to have a backup plan.

Conclusion: Advantages of an Above Ground Septic System

It is possible to use an above-ground septic system as an alternative to an underground system on sites where the soil characteristics are inappropriate for standard in-ground sewage treatment systems. Septic systems with sand mounds not only protect groundwater by artificially increasing the vertical separation layer, but they also do not discharge directly into a surface water body such as a ditch, stream or river, which reduces the possibility of polluting nearby freshwater systems. As little excavation is required for the construction of a sand mound drain field, construction damage is usually kept to an absolute minimum if all steps are taken with caution.

They are the best option in these situations and should be considered.

Please watch the following video to gain some insight into the building of an above-ground septic system. You can reach out to us at any moment with your queries. Please contact us with any questions you have about our services, costs, or assessing your lot:

How Above Ground Septic Systems Work

Images from EyeEm/EyeEm/Getty Images courtesy of George Mdivanian.

In This Article

  • Waste management system that is straightforward
  • It’s time to get up and go
  • Sand, gravel, and dirt that has been layered
  • Putting everything together

In order to compensate for poorly absorbing local soils that cannot support a standard underground septic system, above-ground septic systems, also known as mound systems, were developed. Many of these systems are located in rural locations where there is no public sewer and where standard septic systems cannot be used due to environmental restrictions.

Simple Waste Management System

Septic systems are comprised of two primary components that must work together. The first is a septic tank, which is constructed of watertight concrete or fiberglass and is used to collect solid waste known as “sludge.” It combines the local soils to absorb liquid sewage (effluents) through a subterranean system of perforated pipes, which transports the liquids to a predetermined region known as the leach field. According to the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services, not all soil and site conditions are suitable for standard septic systems.

  • According to the Ohio State University Extension, mound systems are suitable for soils with a limiting layer that is 12 to 36 inches below the surface of the soil.
  • The septic system, the pump chamber and pump, and the mound with its replacement area are the components of the system.
  • The design may include two tanks or a single tank with two chambers, depending on the needs of the project.
  • It has a built-in sump pump that pumps liquid wastes up to the above-ground absorption mound, which is located in the second chamber.

Layered Sand, Gravel and Soil

The first layer of the mound is a tilled-up layer of soil from the septic tank site, which is the second layer. Following that, a layer of sand is applied over the freshly tilled soil. Afterwards, a layer of gravel and piping is strategically positioned and connected to the dosing chamber below it. The gravel is then covered with a construction-grade fabric, and finally, another layer of soil is added to complete the absorption mound’s construction. The final layer of soil is enriched in order to encourage grass to grow quickly over the mound, which will aid in the prevention of erosion problems.

Mound systems are often long and narrow in shape, and they must be constructed in accordance with the contours of the construction site.

When you flush the toilet or drain the bathtub, the waste is dumped directly into the septic tank without being treated.

Once the waste (effluent) has been pumped up and distributed throughout the gravel and sand layers These effluents naturally filter through the soil, where they are recycled back into the environment, where they serve primarily as an excellent fertilizer for the top layer of soil.

Mound systems, like all septic systems, require professional maintenance on a regular basis. According to the Ohio State University Extension, this includes pumping out the dosing and septic tanks every one to five years, as well as cleaning the tanks.

4 Things to Do When Your Septic Tank Is Flooded

If your neighborhood has recently been flooded or has been subjected to strong rains, you may discover that your toilet isn’t flushing properly and that your drains are draining more slowly than usual. It is possible that raw sewage will back up into your tub and sink drains. Drains that are sluggish or clogged may indicate that the water table has risen above the level of your septic field and septic tank. If you believe that your septic system has been flooded, there are four things you should do immediately.

  1. Check the level of groundwater in your area.
  2. Septic tanks are typically located a few feet below the surface of the earth.
  3. If you are aware of the location of your septic tank and drainfield, you should check the water level in the area to ensure that flooding is not a concern.
  4. When there isn’t any evident standing water in the area, use a probe to check the water level or an auger to dig deep into the earth to find out how much water is there.
  5. If your tests reveal that the water level is higher than the top of the septic tank, you should immediately stop using the tank.
  6. 2.
  7. Until the Ground Becomes Dry When you suspect that your septic system has been flooded, contact a septic pumping professional immediately; however, you must wait until the ground has become less saturated before having your tank pumped.
  8. If a septic tank is pumped out when the earth is saturated, it may potentially float out of its location.
  9. Following a decrease in the water table level, it is necessary to pump your system as quickly as feasible.
  10. 3.
  11. Approximately 70 gallons of water are flushed down the toilet per person every day in the average home.

The first step is to check for leaks in all of your fixtures. An inoperable toilet flapper or fill mechanism can leak up to 200 gallons per day, creating a backup of water that your flooded septic system doesn’t have room for. Other suggestions for keeping water out of the drains are as follows:

  • Prepare meals that don’t require cooking, such as sandwiches. Disposable flatware, such as paper plates and paper cups, should be used. Showers are preferable to baths because they are shorter. Save the rinse water and put it to good use on the plants. Only flush the toilet when absolutely necessary

If your clothes washing machine drains into your main sewage line, it can cause a significant amount of water to be discharged into your septic system. Wash your garments at the laundry until the water table begins to fall below the surface. In the event that you must use the washing machine, wash only modest loads and wait a few hours between each load of laundry. 4. Make modifications to your septic system to make it more efficient. After your septic tank has been pumped and your home drainage system has been restored to working order, you should make some modifications to your system in order to reduce flooding problems in the future.

During a septic emergency, the backflow preventer prevents waste water from entering your home or building.

Also, check to see that your yard’s storm drainage does not overflow into your septic field and storage tank area.

When your septic system is inundated, call Eckmayer Inc right away.

Five Reasons You Should Consider an Above Ground Septic Tank

If you are considering installing a new septic tank at your residence or place of business, you may have the impression that the tank would be buried underground and out of sight. Many sewage tanks, for example, can be safely kept above ground, for example, beneath a porta cabin, which is not always the case. As specialists in septic tank supply, we at ASAP Septic Tanks are pleased to provide a comprehensive selection of above-ground septic, sewage effluent, and sewage treatment tanks. There are numerous advantages to purchasing an above-ground sewage tank as opposed to one of its underground counterparts, as listed below.

  1. Installing it is simple and inexpensive.
  2. The fact that these sewage tanks are above ground means that they incur fewer expenses in terms of soil disposal and excavation.
  3. Above-ground sewage tanks are a convenient sewage solution because of all of these factors.
  4. This type of tank may also be installed with kid protective lids if you have a particularly curious youngster and are concerned about your tank being unintentionally opened.
  5. Versatile Septic tanks, which are located above ground, are ideal for storing effluent waste for a short period of time.
  6. Low-maintenance When not in use, above-ground septic, sewage, and effluent tank systems can be kept in storage for an extended period of time.
  7. Because they are so little maintenance, these septic tanks are great for site owners who are often on the go.
  8. Above-ground septic tanks have the advantage of being extremely flexible.
  9. Various useful accessories, such as a high-level alarm, an air vent system, and additional fill stations, can be added to them as well.
  10. Purchase one right away!
  11. If you want a fitting service, we can provide all of the essential parts as well as the fitting service.

We even provide free shipping to the whole of the United Kingdom! Simply get in contact with us here at ASAP Septic Tanks by phoning 01623 232240 or sending an email to [email protected] to find out more. We’d be pleased to assist you with getting dressed.

FAQs — JT’s SEPTIC

Make sure to contact JT’s Septic as soon as possible! It is possible for us to assist you in diagnosing the problem and determining if it is a plumbing issue or a problem directly connected to your septic system. Wastewater backing up into more than one household fixture (even during dry weather), pooling water or muddy soil around your septic system or in your basement are all signs that your system needs to be checked. If you notice any of the following, contact us to have it checked: a strong odor around the septic tank and/or drainfield

Should I Use Septic Tank Additives?

According to current research, there is no clear proof that these items can prevent septic system failure or that they will improve system function. The addition of compounds to a septic tank will not eliminate the necessity for routine tank cleaning. Septic tank cleansers, rejuvenators, and primers that are promoted as such will not hurt your system, but they will not benefit it either. However, there is already a large amount of bacteria in the tank that will break down waste products, so using enzymes or yeast would not hurt your system at all.

Septic system additives should be avoided, according to the North Dakota State University Agriculture Communication.

-Tank Refueling Station

what are the PVC pipes sticking up in my yard?

Septic tank cleanouts are often located between the home and the septic tank, and they are used to snake the input line from the house to the tank. If the PVC markers are labeled with “JT’s Septic,” they indicate that they are marking the access lids to your septic tank (buried directly under the labels). Alternatively, if the pipes are further away and appear to be arbitrarily arranged in relation to the house or tank, it is possible that they are inspection ports used to check the amount of liquid in the disposal area.

See also:  How To Know When 300 Gallon Septic Tank Is Full? (TOP 5 Tips)

will household cleaning products harm my system?

The majority of specialists believe that the usual use of household cleaning solutions will not harm the system since it will not prevent the activity of bacteria in the tank from taking place as intended. A large amount of certain chemicals, on the other hand, may interfere with the breakdown of wastes in the tank or cause the soil treatment area to become clogged. Please remember that the goods you use may ultimately make their way into the groundwater systems in your community.

How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

Most tanks require pumping every 3-5 years, depending on the size of the tank, the amount of wastewater that flows into the tank on a daily basis, and whether or not the tank is equipped with a trash disposal. The state of Arizona currently does not have any laws requiring maintenance and inspection (with the exception of those pertaining to the sale of a home), but the Environmental Protection Agency and local health departments strongly recommend routine maintenance to help prevent groundwater contamination due to nitrogen, phosphorus, and disease-causing bacteria that can be found in wastewater.

I just had my tank pumped and it already looks full!?!

There is a distinction between being full and being overfull! An empty septic tank will fill up as quickly as you use up the quantity of gallons it can contain. The tank is intended to maintain a liquid level at the bottom of the output pipe until the tank is completely filled with liquid (that exits into the disposal area). In order to decide if your tank is ready to be pumped out, a professional must first inspect it and measure the amounts of scum and silt in the water below the surface of the water.

Does anyone have to be home to have jt’s pump my septic tank?

We always encourage people to have someone at their home for our service, but it is not mandatory. Our service technicians are quick and fast when it comes to finding and pumping out a problem. We enjoy having a homeowner and/or a Realtor on site for our inspections so that they may discuss any concerns that we may discover. If we happen to miss you during our service, we are more than pleased to accept a credit card payment over the phone.

Does JT’s Septic do leach line work?

At this time, JT’s does not install or perform any work on leach lines or disposal areas. We do minor repairs on septic tanks, as well as on the inlet and outlet sewer lines. Not sure if we can assist you? Just give us a call!

Why can’t you pump my septic tank out of the sewer cleanouts?

We have found that a tank cannot be efficiently pumped through sewage cleanouts because the pumps on our trucks are just too powerful, and there is no way to get all of the scum and debris out of the tank through a cleanout. It is advised that the tank access lids be used in order to remove all liquid and particles from the tank and to examine the baffles. To empty the tank completely, we unlock all compartments and use a pump to remove the full contents of it. The fact that you do not pump via the primary access holes in the tank itself is a disservice to yourself and your system.

how do you know the size of my tank?

Sewer cleanouts are just ineffective for pumping a tank; our trucks’ pumps are simply too powerful to efficiently pump through cleanouts, and there is no way to effectively pump out all of the waste from the tank using a cleanout. It is advised that the tank access lids be used in order to properly remove all liquid and solids and to examine the baffles. To empty the tank completely, we unlock all compartments and use a pump to remove the full contents. You are doing yourself and your system a disservice if you do not pump through the main access openings of the tank itself!

why do you recommend routine maintenance and frequent pump outs when I’ve not a had a problem in the last 10 years and I’ve never had my tank pumped?

Even while many homeowners are able to go several years over the suggested maintenance time without experiencing any problems, harm is gradually being done. Solids that are insoluble in water and cannot be broken down by natural microbes are stored in the tank. This builds up over time until the tank no longer has enough space to hold everything. As a result, the solids make their way to the drain field where they fill up the pores in the earth, causing poor drainage and, eventually, the failure of the septic system and drainfield.

How long will my septic system last?

All septic systems have a defined life span, which means they will ultimately cease to function.

The length of time a system will survive is determined by the system’s size, installation, soil composition, the water table, neighboring trees and roots, the amount of usage and abuse, and, most crucially, the frequency with which it is maintained and pumped.

if I have a garbage disposal Can i use it?

Yes! It is OK to use the garbage disposal for a limited amount of time, such as for food crumbs that remain after doing the dishes. Pump outs will be more frequent if the disposal is used more frequently, which will result in higher costs. The usage of a trash disposal can have a negative impact on your septic system by increasing the quantity of suspended particles that enter the system. Soil treatment areas can get clogged with suspended particles, which reduces the soil’s ability to remove waste.

CAN I FLUSH WET WIPESFEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS?

No! The presence of this problem is one of the most prevalent we see in tanks. Wipes and/or feminine hygiene items block sewer pipes and do not decompose properly in the holding tank, causing backups.

how often can i do laundry?

It is critical not to overburden your computer system. Instead of completing a large number of loads in a single day, try to spread them out over the course of a week. Doing no more than two loads of laundry every day – one in the morning and one in the evening – is advised.

Can I have a water softener system with a septic system?

It is unlikely that a water softener will cause damage to most septic systems, albeit they may necessitate the installation of a somewhat bigger tank disposal area.

Can We Drive Over Our Leach Field?

Neither driving on the leach field nor on the entrance and exit sewer pipes, nor on the septic tank, is suggested by the manufacturer. It is possible to restrict or slow down efficient evaporation by compacting the soil over the leach lines. Evaporation is a critical component of the drainage and disposal process. It is possible to induce settling and even rupture of sewage pipes by driving over them. It is possible to produce cracks in a tank by driving over it, especially if it is made of fiberglass or plastic.

do i have a septic systeM?

Do you utilize well water in your home? Is there no meter on the water main that leads into your home? Do your water bill or property tax bill display a “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged” or “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged”? What about your next-door neighbors? Do they have a septic system? Your home may have a septic system if any of the following questions were answered affirmatively:

How do I find my septic system?

Once you’ve confirmed that you have a septic system, you may identify it by looking at your home’s “as built” drawing, inspecting your yard for lids and manhole covers, or calling us for assistance.

How Far Does The Tank Have To Be Away From The House?

The normal setback distance from the home is 10 feet. Yavapai County is committed to upholding this obligation. Keep these setbacks as they are to allow for easier access and to avoid any potential foundation and moisture concerns.

An alarm is going off in my tank- what do I do?!

The sirens on certain alternative systems alert the homeowner to a possible problem prior to effluent or waste backing up into the house. The alarm may sound to warn a problem with the electrical system or a high quantity of liquid in the tank. A pump or float may be malfunctioning, in which case it is recommended to contact either JT’s or your alternate system maintenance provider for assistance as soon as possible.

Can I Plant A Tree Over My Leach Field?

No.

Root invasion from trees is one of the most prevalent problems that affect septic systems today. Certain species of trees are extremely harmful to your septic system and should be avoided at all costs. Please check your local nursery for further information.

does jt’s provide portable storage tanks?

We’re sorry, but we don’t provide portable storage tanks at the present moment.

can jt’s facilitate a pipeline repair?

Yes! We are capable of repairing and replacing sewer inlet and outlet pipes. Our main line sewer camera service may also be used to plan infrastructure maintenance, as well as to aid with any and all forms of repair work. Please contact us if you would like to book a service.

why do you suggest running a sewer camera down my line?

Yes! Septic system inlet/outlet pipes are repaired or replaced by us. Our main line sewer camera service is also available to assist with infrastructure maintenance planning as well as with any and all forms of repair work. For further information, please contact us.

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE INSTALLING A HOLDING TANK

Septic tank and holding tank are two words that are frequently used interchangeably. Despite the fact that they are both sanitation systems, there are significant variances between them. Both types of tanks collect wastewater from the home, but they each manage this effluent in a different manner than the other. If you want to learn more about installing a holding tank, continue reading to discover more about this type of sanitation system. 1. HOLDING TANKS ARE DIFFERENT FROM SEPTIC TANKSA septic tank is a large vessel that collects household wastewater through an inlet pipe, treats the effluent through a bio-action process, and releases the treated water into a drainfield where the water percolates underground.

A holding tank is also used to collect wastewater from the home, which is accessed by an inlet.

Secondly, STORAGE TANKS REQUIRE CONSTANT PUMPING It is recommended by experts that you pump your septic tank every two to three years, depending on factors such as the size of your family or structure.

If you want to utilize the holding tank on a regular basis, it is possible that you will need to clean the unit every 6 to 8 weeks.

The frequency with which the alarm will sound will be determined by a variety of factors, including the size of the tank and the number of people within.

Avoid putting unsuitable objects down the drain, such as food particles and grease, to ensure that your holding tank lasts as long as possible.

3.

Many factors go into the construction of a functioning and fail-safe holding tank.

Additionally, you must determine the proper depth for building the subterranean tank as well as complete complex plumbing operations.

4.

Holding tank owners in California are obliged to get the necessary permits from their local Environmental Health Officer and to pay the associated costs before constructing a holding tank.

Once your holding tank has been installed, you must wait for clearance from the local health authorities before you may begin using it.

5.

In addition to permit fees, labor costs, and site conditions will all influence the cost of establishing a holding tank.

Holding tanks, on the other hand, may have a greater maintenance cost than other types of units due to the constant pumping of these units.

Overall, when comparing the upfront costs of building, running, and maintaining a septic tank to the cost of a holding tank, the holding tank comes out on top for property owners looking for the most value for their money.

It can be used in a variety of situations. Do you want to put up a holding tank at your plant to store waste? You can rely on the professionals at Pete’s Outflow Technicians to complete the work correctly. Make a phone call now to talk with one of our knowledgeable professionals.

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