How Long Does The Average Septic Tank Last In Clay Soil? (Best solution)

A large, well-maintained drain field in good soil could last for over 50 years, whereas a drain field with poorly installed piping may not even last a full day.

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  • A general rule of thumb is that the site needs at least 20 inches of good soil. Keep Things Moving Underground The average lifespan of a septic system is estimated at 15 to 40 years, but it may last longer if properly maintained.

What kind of septic system do I need for clay soil?

If your ground has high clay soils or massive clay, the lagoon is perfect for those types of soil. If you have a large lot the lagoon can be hidden from site and will not need much maintenance (out of site out of mind). Most commonly the lagoon is one of the most inexpensive types of systems (cheaper the better).

How often should a septic tank be replaced?

Typical lifespan is in excess of 30 years for GRP, PE and concrete tanks. Assuming optimal conditions of install and use, you could expect the following: Steel septic tanks have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years.

What is the life expectancy of a septic tank?

Age of the System It’s pretty common for a septic system to last 40 years or longer, which means if you buy a new home, you might never need to replace it. However, you might have an older home whose septic system has been in place for nearly half a century.

Will red clay soil perc?

Clay soils have notoriously slow percolation speeds of 0.1 inch or less per hour. These soils easily become waterlogged, and plant roots can suffocate as a result.

Which is the best septic tank?

The best choice is a precast concrete septic tank. Precast septic tanks hold many advantages over plastic, steel, or fiberglass tanks. This is why so many cities and towns actually require the use of concrete septic tanks.

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.

Do Soakaways work in clay soil?

Soakaways are one type of “Infiltration Device”, a simple way of dispersing surface and storm water in situations where connection to the SW system is impractical or unwarranted. It should be noted that soakaways rarely work on heavy clay soils.

What is the most common cause of septic system failure?

Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.

Do septic tanks ever need to be replaced?

Unfortunately, septic systems don’t last forever. With regular maintenance and pumping, your septic system can last many years. However, after decades of wear and tear, the system will need to be replaced.

How do you know if your septic system is failing?

The first signs of a failing septic system may include slow draining toilets and sinks, gurgling noises within the plumbing, sewage odors inside, continuing drainage backups, or bacteria in the well water. The area of the strongest odor will point to the location of the failure in the septic system.

Do I have to replace my septic tank by 2020?

Under the new rules, if you have a specific septic tank that discharges to surface water (river, stream, ditch, etc.) 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.

Does heavy rain affect septic tank?

It is common to have a septic back up after or even during a heavy rain. Significant rainfall can quickly flood the ground around the soil absorption area (drainfield) leaving it saturated, making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system.

What will ruin a septic system?

Any paper products like tissues, paper towels, tampons, or sanitary products, even some heavier toilet paper, will clog your system if you flush enough of it. Wet wipes are another product that you should never flush into a septic system.

Septic System Life Expectancy Guide for Septic Systems, Septic Tanks, Septic Drainfields and other septic components

  • ASK a question or make a comment regarding the normal life expectancy of septic system components in the comments section.

InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. The life expectancy of a septic system is: This page explains the normal life expectancy of septic systems as well as the various components that make up a septic system. The life expectancy of a septic tank is mostly determined by the materials used in its construction, but the life expectancy of septic system pipe is largely determined by the likelihood of damage by vehicle traffic, root blockage, or flooding by groundwater.

For this topic, we also have anARTICLE INDEX available, or you may check the top or bottom of the page.

Septic System Component Life Expectancy

When a homeowner understands the right techniques for septic tank care, such as the frequency of septic tank cleaning and other septic tank maintenance duties, he or she will be better able to extend the life of their onsite septic system and ensure that it is operating effectively.

How Quickly Does A Septic System Fail? How long will a septic tank, D-box, or absorption bed last?

When a homeowner understands the right processes for septic tank care, such as the frequency of septic tank cleaning and other septic tank maintenance duties, he or she will be better able to extend the life of their onsite septic system and ensure that it is functioning effectively.

  • Septic Tank Pumping Frequency: Assuming you have a working and reasonably-designed septic system to begin with, the most major action you can take to extend the life of your septic system is to have the septic tank cleaned or “pumped” on a regular basis. See TANK PUMPING SCHEDULE for further information. the name of a table that calculates how frequently a certain septic tank need this treatment
  • It is important to understand how the septic system is used, including the amount of wastewater produced and the kind of things that are flushed down the septic system drains. Reducing the amount of water used lessens the stress on the absorption field. By avoiding the use of chemicals or materials that do not biodegrade, the pace of solid build-up in the septic tank can be reduced. Please see the section “DON’T FLUSH INTO THE TOILETthese items into a septic system” for a list of what is and is not acceptable to flush down toilets or down building drains
  • Soil conditions such as soil percolation rate, ground water or surface water levels, and the volume and level of ground water or surface water that have an impact on the soil absorption area or drain field The materials used in septic tanks corrode over time, first losing their baffles (which causes drain field obstruction) and then rusting at the bottom or sides of the tank. The pace at which rust develops is determined by the soil conditions, soil acidity, and other variables. When properly installed and maintained, an unlined concrete septic tank may last for over 40 years, excluding instances of improperly mixed concrete or acidic soils, both of which might shorten the tank’s life expectancy. Unless they are mechanically damaged, plastic or fiberglass septic tanks may be expected to survive for a similar amount of time. In many cases, the lifespan of Special Components (such as effluent pumps or septic grinder pumps) along with the lifespan of septic filters, media, and sand bed filter systems dictates the requirement for maintenance of alternate-design septic systems that make use of these components. Trees or plants in the vicinity whose roots have infiltrated system components
  • Septic soakaway beds located in wet soils, near high water tables, near creeks and streams that are susceptible to flooding all have a short life expectancy and may be improperly or illegally installed
  • Surface and roof runoff directed into drainfields
  • And roof or surface runoff directed into drainfields The following is the water use in the building: The amount of water used in a building has an impact on the drainfield, as do exceptional or abnormal amounts of water consumption, such as toilets that are always running. See When a toilet runs continuously or a water softener is stuck in the “backwash” cycle, it can overwhelm a septic drainfield, causing it to break and contaminating the surrounding area. Similarly, a water softener that is trapped in the regeneration cycle and continues to run can cause flooding in septic fields, and a water conditioner that is incorrectly calibrated can introduce an excessive amount of salt into the water can cause damage to the drainfield. For more information on how water softeners function, see HOW SOFTTENERS WORK. Advice on how to set the water softener timing and salt dose may be found atWATER SOFTENER ADJUSTMENTCONTROLS.

How Quickly Will the Septic System Fail if We Have One or More of the Problems Listed Above?

It is not necessary to pump septic systems (tank and absorption system, or onsite wastewater disposal systems) to ensure that they do not fail instantly. However, an unmaintained septic tank no longer provides enough protection against particles in the soil absorption field. If the drain field is neglected for an extended period of time, it might limit its life and cause system failure, which may need total replacement of the soil absorption field. There are various situations when site constraints prevent the replacement of the absorption field from being possible – or at least impossible using a typical drainfield design method There are a variety of alternative designs available to address these issues.

How long do you anticipate it to endure before costly repairs to the septic tank or to the septic drain field are required?

How Long do Individual Septic System Components like Tanks, Piping, D-Boxes, Filters or Pumps Last?

A steel septic tank will rust out on a timeline that is determined by the acidity of the soil, the grade of the tank steel, and the integrity of the coating. An older steel septic tank, such as one that is 15 or 20 years old, is likely to have corroded to the point of losing its baffles and maybe having a rusted out bottom, which are issues that can be identified during septic tank cleaning and inspection. A steel septic tank cover will survive until it is either driven over by an idiot or rusted away.

  • A traditional septic drain field has a variable life span that is determined by the soil percolation rate, the drainfield size, and the degree of usage.
  • I’ve witnessed a traditional septic drainfield collapse within 24 hours of being used for the first time on a new system due to improper pipe installation.
  • If you ask your neighbors who have comparable soils and systems, they may be able to provide valuable insight.
  • A septic tank is simply one component of a complete on-site wastewater treatment system.

Preserving the septic tank, on the other hand, will help to extend the life of the absorption system, leach field, or drainfield, which is the more expensive second part of the onsite wastewater treatment system.

What to Do ifyou have just moved into a home with a septic system

If you’ve recently purchased a property that has a septic tank, you may not be aware of the size of the tank, its maintenance history, or even the location of the septic tank in question. As a result, you should have your tank emptied out and checked for damage. The business that is pumping the tank will be able to tell you the size, age, and condition of the tank.

Reader CommentsQ A

Pete Providing your excavator digs enough space around the concrete septic tank and the tank is not damaged, it should be feasible to lift and transport the tank without difficulty. I need to relocate a 1000-gallon septic tank because of construction. My main concern is the tank’s structural stability given its age. It’s 40 years old and appears to be in fine shape; the baffles have exhibited just little degradation. Without pumping, I can’t see the edges or the bottom of the tank. If the baffles appear to be in excellent condition, I suppose that would imply a tank that is sufficiently sound to transport.

Additionally, the baffles and concrete of the distribution box appear to be of high quality (I do realize this is a separate entity).

Please keep all comments to a minimum.

“Code” compliance is, of course, a contentious issue; no one purchasing a 40-year-old home can reasonably expect that all of the home’s features will comply with current building codes, nor can the owners be required to update every item to current codes, which cover a wide range of topics from structure to mechanicals to lot line setbacks and clearances to radon mitigation.

  1. Krause.
  2. Septic tanks of greater capacity can lengthen the life of any drainfield in general; nevertheless, my 50+ years of expertise in this field leads me to advise that it would be folly to place any expectations on a 40-year-old septic drainfield’s ability to perform.
  3. It’s all too usual for new homeowners to move into a house, possibly with a younger or larger family, and immediately discover that the drainfield has collapsed due to a lack of maintenance.
  4. We conducted an examination on a house that was built 40 years ago and still had its original septic system.
  5. Working with our realtor, I’m attempting to determine if the property owners would be willing to replace it with a new 1500-gallon tank.
  6. Greg Once the new drainfield has been installed, if there is enough space on the site for it, the contractor leaves everything in the old field in its original condition while excavating new drainfield trenches either in another location or in parallel with the existing trenches.
  7. If there isn’t enough space, the entire field design is dubious and should be reviewed by a septic engineer who will take into consideration soil perc rates, available space, and other factors.
See also:  How To Get Septic Tank Line? (Best solution)

Beyond that general recommendation, I’m not sure what aspect of your site necessitates the digging up and relocation of existing lines, but I believe it has something to do with a lack of area for the fields.

Just the size of an extra hole that will have to be excavated on my land in order to fit all of the stone, sand, and whatever other materials come with it is something I’m concerned about.

Once again, thank you.

You might be wondering how much excavation and disruption will be required in the first place.

Thank you so much for your prompt answer.

That being said, he said that all of the debris from the failed field would be buried in another location in my yard, which I’m not certain about.

Alternatively, should I request that the material be taken away?

Once again, thank you.

After a few years, you switch between them, giving the one that is “off” time to thin and reduce the likelihood of clogging and failure.

It’s a well-known design, however if I were the builder, I wouldn’t make any guarantees about how long it will last.

See STEPS FOR IMPROVED SEPTIC LIFEHello Sirs and Madams, My standard drain field, which has been in place for 23 years, is nearing the end of its useful life.

His advice is to build a new chamber field and install a valve to allow for switching from one field to another.

He stated that my traditional system will self-restore after approximately 7 years and will continue to function normally.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Rita According on what you’ve described, a realistic planning estimate indicates that you’ll need to:1.

replace your existing septic tank.

create a drainage system (or at the very least scope every drainfield line and dig up a couple of sample cross-sections to see how the field was constructed, amount of gravel, biomat condition) If the tree and its roots are removed, the drainfield must be relocated to an appropriate location.

What about a system that was built in 1978 but has seen minimal use since then?

Twenty years ago, a tree root had broken the cement tank in half, so they chopped the tree root and placed root killer in it.

We wish to bring the property back to life, however we are unsure about the system after so many years of inactivity.

We had a discussion about this system at You’ll see that I’ve presented a number of questions that I hope will assist you get a better understanding of the current state of the system.

We have a steel clargester that has been in service for 30 years and manages the garbage for nine residences.

Ron, how many more years do you think it will be before it has to be replaced?

I wish there was a solution like this that worked and didn’t pollute the environment like some of the harsh chemicals that people have tried in the past.

Is there a way to divide the field into smaller sections?

Alternatively, view the FAQs on SEPTIC LIFE EXPECTANCY- questions and answers that were originally presented at the conclusion of this page. Alternatively, consider the following:

Articles on the life expectancy of a septic system

  • DISHWASHER vs. SEPTICS
  • NO ROCK SEPTIC SYSTEM LIFE
  • SEPTIC LIFE EXPECTANCY
  • DISHWASHER vs. SEPTICS
  • FORMATIONS OF BIOMATTERIALS PLANTSTREES ON TOP OF SEPTIC SYSTEMS
  • EPTIC DRAINFIELD LIFE
  • SEPTIC FIELD FAILURE CAUSES
  • EPTIC SYSTEM AGE
  • EPTIC LIFE

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AT INSPECTION, THE EXPECTANCY OF SEPTIC LIFE An online encyclopedia of building environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, and issue preventive information is available at Apedia.com. Alternatively, have a look at this.

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES:ARTICLE INDEX to SEPTIC SYSTEMS

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Septic tank in clay soil? Here’s what you need to know

Septic tanks do not provide much in the way of treatment for the waste generated by the toilets and sinks on your home. Really, all they do is separate the garbage that goes into the bins into three layers (it’s not worth thinking about what that may look like while you’re having your lunch, just trust me on this). The middle layer of separated waste water is what exits the tank; the rest is maintained within the tank and it is this that is removed during your routine septic tank emptying procedure.

A soakaway system or drainage field

As a rule, this is a system of slotted or perforated pipes that, by allowing the wastewater to flow safely through the particles of the subsoil, offers some treatment for the water. There is no pollution caused by the waste water since it may travel through the earth without being polluted (assuming of course that the soakaway system or drainage field is working as it should be). Your septic tank may occasionally discharge directly into a soakaway pit, which operates on the same principles as the slotted or perforated piping described above.

A sealed pipe which runs straight to a local watercourse or a ditch

Please be advised that, as of January 1, 2020, you will no longer be permitted to have waste water from a septic tank discharged directly into a river or ditch without prior approval. Detailed information regarding the legislative change and what it implications may be found in our Guide. There has been a shift in thinking since it is no longer believed that waste water is clean enough to be discharged directly into waterways without first being treated (as it would be if it passed through a soakaway system).

So why is it relevant if you have a septic tank in clay soil?

If your septic tank is connected to a soakaway system, the difficulty is that it will only work well in specific types of soil. There are minute spaces between particles in the subsoil, through which the waste water travels, that are the source of the problem. Briefly stated, if the spaces between the particles are too small (or there are no gaps at all), waste water will not be able to travel through them and will be trapped.

Clay soil is the primary culprit in this situation because it prevents waste water from flowing through and being treated as effectively as it should be. This has the potential to produce major soakaway issues.

What are your options if you have a septic tank in clay soil?

The installation of a soakaway system or drainage field on your land will be ineffective unless you have another location within your property’s boundaries that does not contain clay soil. Through the use of an apercolation test, it is possible to assess the type of soil and how porous it would be. For those who aren’t sure where to begin, this is an excellent place to start because it will tell you whether any part of the land on your property is appropriate – and if so, what size and kind of soakaway system may be required.

A sewage treatment plant generates waste water of higher quality, allowing you to have greater flexibility in deciding where the waste water from the plant should be discharged.

On conclusion, installing a septic tank in clay soil might be difficult, but there are several choices available.

Septic Systems in Clay Soils, The Expanding Clay Dilema – GroundStone

Septic systems on clay soils, particularly expansive clays, can provide a number of difficulties and hassles for any homeowner who has a backyard that is predominantly composed of clay. Expansion clays may pose several issues to not just home foundations but also septic systems. It is critical to detect these types of clays in order to ensure that the appropriate method is employed to alleviate possible essential concerns. Since the performance of a septic system is limited by the soil’s capacity to naturally filter wastewater as it flows through the soil particles, it is important to understand how soil filters wastewater.

When wastewater effluent from a septic system infiltrates clay soils that contain even relatively modest amounts (5-10 percent) of expansive clay minerals, the moist circumstances cause the soil to expand, causing it to become more compacted.

As a result, the ability of the soil in the drain field to absorb wastewater and hence its drainage capacity will be reduced as well.

Consequently, the septic system’s efficiency is diminished, and in certain cases, the system fails, causing sewage to pool on the surface.

Moreover, soils with a COLE value larger than 0.06 (i.e. soils that are prone to swelling and shrinking) can cause structural damage to subterranean septic systems, necessitating the need for expensive repairs.

Effects of Shrink-Swell soils

This is owing to the clay’s capacity to attract and absorb water, which results in its shrinking and swelling qualities. Some expanding soils have been seen to grow by a factor of 150 times their original size. When wet, expansive clay may become quite sticky, and it is prone to cracking when exposed to drying conditions. Cracking of the soil surface during dry seasons might therefore be an indication of shrink-swell soils, which can be distinguished from other soil types. These fractures, which may be quite extensive, can cause damage to the foundations of buildings that are built on top of these spreading soils, as well as serious infrastructural difficulties.

  • Unlike any other natural catastrophe, expanding soils do more damage to structures and pavement than any other type of natural disaster.
  • It is possible that water contaminants such as wastewater from septic systems, herbicides and pesticides from agricultural land would be transported as a consequence of this process.
  • Because the swelling of various types of expansive soils is not caused by a single source, managing them can be difficult.
  • (Kariuki and colleagues, 2004)

Alternative Options for Septic Systems in Expanding Clay Soils

Among the septic system solutions for expanding clay soils are the following:

  • An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) will aid in the processing of sewage before it is released into the drain field, hence reducing the likelihood of soil particles being stuck.

An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) will aid in the processing of sewage prior to its discharge into the drain field, hence reducing the likelihood of soil particles being stuck.

  • A sand mound septic system is comprised of an above-ground mound of porous sand media that acts as the drain field/filtration bed where wastewater is handled
  • And

Standard practice books and codes specify that this sand media must be clean and free of any silts or clay residues. There are a few forms of sand media that are permitted in standard practice books and regulations.

  • As a result of the increased size of the drain field, a larger absorption system is available to compensate for the lower rate of drainage.

The use of a low-tech and reasonably inexpensive solution if you have the room on your property to expand the drain field over a bigger region is an excellent choice.

In many parts of North America, this practice is no longer considered a legal requirement.

  • If you have the room on your property to expand the drain field across a greater region, this is a low-tech and reasonably inexpensive solution. The use of this approach is no longer permitted in many parts of North America.

This wastewater dispersion solution is still in use in a number of places around Europe. Because of the inadequate treatment of effluent, a large portion of North America has now abandoned this technique of wastewater dissemination altogether. Due to the fact that these sorts of systems are still in operation, significant nitrogen concentrations have been observed in several water sources.

Septic Tanks and Expanding Clay Soils

We’ll get into the specifics of constructing septic tanks in expansive clay soils later in this post, but I wanted to point out a few crucial considerations when installing septic tanks in expansive clay.

Septic Tank Problems in Clay

  • The possibility of a concrete septic tank splitting when it is placed directly in expanding clay is a possible drawback of this kind of installation.

Expanding clay can cause problems for septic tanks in the same way that it can for foundations. Over time, the regular shrinking and swelling of the concrete septic tanks will produce cracks in the structure of the tank. An excavation surrounding the concrete septic tank that is bigger and longer will allow for adequate bedding sand to be used to support and stabilize the tank. A sufficient buffer will be created, allowing for immediate relief of direct pressure on the concrete tank.

  • A polyethene septic tank that is directly placed into expansive clays may suffer substantial structural damage as a result of the pressure exerted on the tank.

Plastic septic tanks might bow or cave in as a result of the immense side pressure caused by the expansion of the clay. It is also possible for many of the plastic risers in septic tanks to become ovular in shape, resulting in the lids no longer fitting properly. It is guaranteed that bedding the poly septic tank with the appropriate amount of sand can alleviate pressure when utilized with expansive clays, providing the plastic tank is not deeper than 3 feet in depth.

Some of the science behind expanding clays

Clay soils are made up of layers of mineral sheets that are layered one on top of the other to form the soil. The structural makeup of these layers determines whether or not they have the potential to expand in the future. During dry seasons, when soils shrink, expanding clay soils are more likely to produce extensive fissures in the ground. During the wet season, these gaping cracks enable water to seep deep into the soil and become trapped there. The negatively charged clay minerals inside the soil are attracted to the positively charged water molecules within the soil, allowing water to travel between the mineral layers and causing the soil to inflate.

See also:  How To Plumb A Bathroom For Septic Tank? (Correct answer)

In addition to shrinkage and fractures emerging on the soil’s surface as a result of drying out and drying out, water trapped between the clay mineral layers is released when the soil dries out and dries out.

Testing for expanding soil

The coefficient of linear extensibility (COLE), which is the shrink-swell potential of the soil’s natural fabric, must be calculated using three separate intact soil core samples. The volume change of each core must be recorded under damp and dry circumstances in order to calculate the COLE.

The engineering version of COLE makes use of a dried ground soil sample and evaluates the change in length after it has been dried. Making a cylindrical worm out of wet clay and baking it in the oven until it is dry is a simple method of accomplishing this goal.

In Summary

Integral soil core samples must be taken in three samples and the volume change of each core must be recorded under damp and dry circumstances in order to calculate the coefficient of linear extensibility (COLE), which is the shrink-swell potential of the soil’s natural fabric. COLE is an engineering term that refers to measuring the change in length of a dried ground soil sample after it has been dried. Making a cylindrical worm out of wet clay and baking it in the oven until it is dry is a simple method of accomplishing this goal.

What is the best septic system for clay soils?

According to the diagram below, a septic system separates waste into three levels, with one layer being treated and exiting the tank, and another layer being discarded. With the outlet pipe, the water drains away to a soakaway or drainage field, while the remaining contents of the tanks remain in the tanks as’sludge’ until they are regularly emptied, which is known as desludging. Clay soils may be problematic for septic systems since it is not the most effective soil for absorbing and purifying water, as it is in other soil types.

How do you know if you have clay soil?

Ask yourself how your soil seems when it is hot or rainy, and you will have the answer. If your garden becomes flooded for an extended period of time following heavy rains, you may have clay soil. If your garden gets exceedingly hard and very dry after a hot time, this might also indicate that you have clay soil in your garden. The most effective course of action is to do an apercolation test. If you’re quite certain that you have clay soil, a percolation test will prove that you do indeed have clay.

What’s the problem with clay soil and septic tanks?

One-third of the contents of an aseptic tank is drained away into a soakaway or a drainage field. This is done in order for the water to flow through this system and be partially cleansed by the soil because it passes through small holes in the soil, leaving any debris or undesired things in the ground as it goes through the system. It is impossible for water to travel through clay soil because there aren’t large enough spaces between the particles in the soil (hence the dry baked ground in hot weather, and water-logged garden during rainy spells).

Despite the fact that the water is being pumped out of the septic tank, it is unable to escape, resulting in unclean untreated water accumulating in a sodden path surrounding the tank.

What are the alternatives to clay soil septic tanks? What’s the best septic system for clay soils?

Soakaway systems do not work well on clay soils, therefore stay away from any septic system or sewage treatment facility that makes use of them. The installation of a sewage treatment plant is recommended in the event that your septic tank is located adjacent to a watercourse such as a lake, river, stream, canal, or other similar body of water. High-level sewage treatment facilities generate water of a quality that is clean enough to be injected directly into a water course. It’s important to double-check with the Environmental Agency to ensure that this is OK; you don’t want to be penalized if your watercourse is a rare exception to this rule.

You may just discharge the water into this if you have a large amount of land (which is frequent around off-mains properties).

For additional information, please contact our team at 01752 692 221 or use the live chat feature to receive assistance from our support experts. Please let us know if you like this content. That’s the only way we’ll be able to make progress.

Does Clay Soil Affect the Drainage on a Leach Field?

In rural locations, septic systems with leach fields are used to collect waste water from the home. Septic systems are used to recycle human waste when sewage treatment plants aren’t readily available. Uncommon septic systems include a septic tank, an underground leach field, and soil. Household garbage is buried below the surface of the earth in close proximity to the dwelling. If your septic system is correctly operating, it will allow waste water to soak into the soil and be purified. The kind of soil has a direct impact on the size and type of septic system that is installed.

Septic System Design

A septic tank is a holding tank that is buried in the ground. The size of the septic tank is determined in part by the number of bedrooms in the residence. The septic tank collects the waste water generated by the household. Solid items sink to the bottom of the container, while liquid materials such as fats and oils float to the top. The liquid in the centre of the tank drains into the septic leach field or drain field, depending on the model.

Leach Field Design

A leach field is made up of two to five ditches that can be up to 100 feet in length. The trenches are roughly nine feet apart and three feet broad. They are two to three feet deep and two to three feet apart. Inside the trenches, a four-inch perforated pipe is installed. In addition to the pipe, 12 inches or more of gravel and six inches of dirt surround it. The waste water is channeled through the pores in the pipe and seeps into the earth below.

Clay Soil

Clay soil particles are extremely small in size. They have a diameter of less than.002 millimeters. Clay soil drains quite slowly, making it a poor choice for landscaping. It is possible that waste water will not flow effectively from the drain field if the soil contains a high concentration of clay. The clay soil has the potential to block the leach field. It is likely that septic systems will not be effective in particularly heavy clay soils.

Improperly Working Septic Systems

Clay soils may be a contributing factor to a septic system that is not functioning correctly. It is possible that sewage smells will be prevalent near the drain field. During periods of heavy plant development, waste water can bubble up to the soil surface, causing ponding in regions with dense vegetation. The sewage has the potential to pollute groundwater as well as surrounding streams and lakes. In some cases, waste water drains slowly from the home while in others, it backs up into the house.

Testing for Clay Soil

Septic system rules differ from state to state and county to county. The design and installation of septic systems are often overseen by an environmental health professional from the county. A percolation test is used to determine how quickly water drains from the soil. When it comes to the size of the drain field, the findings of the percolation test are important. Clay soils, for example, may need a longer leach field than other soil types.

Alternative Septic Systems For Difficult Sites

This Article Discusses Mound Systems are a type of system that is used to build mounds. Alternative Systems are also available. View and post commentsQuestions Septic System FAQsView all articles on the SEPTIC SYSTEM If your lot does not pass the perc test, some towns may enable you to construct an engineered system as a backup plan if the perc test fails. For waterfront estates and other ecologically sensitive places, alternative water-treatment systems may also be necessary to aid in the protection of water supplies.

  1. A “mound” system operates in much the same way as a normal system, except that the leach field is elevated above the natural grade.
  2. They require more frequent monitoring and maintenance in order to avoid complications.
  3. It is possible that the technology will not operate as planned if either the designer or the installer is inexperienced with the technology.
  4. The design of a system is particular to the soil type, site circumstances, and degree of consumption that is being considered.
  5. Some states and municipalities will only accept system types that have been certified in their jurisdiction, and they may also demand that the owner maintain a service contract with a vendor that has been approved by the state or municipality.

When it comes to success with alternative systems, proper maintenance is essential.

MOUND SYSTEMS

Mound systems are often two to three times more expensive than ordinary septic systems, and they need more frequent monitoring and maintenance. To see a larger version, click here. Ohio State University Extension provides the following information: The mound is comprised of a network of tiny distribution pipes that are embedded in a layer of gravel on top of a layer of sand that is normally one to two feet deep. Topsoil is applied to the tops and sides of the structure (see illustration). A dosing chamber (also known as a pump chamber) is included in a mound system, and it is responsible for collecting wastewater that is discharged from the septic tank.

  • Most feature an alarm system that notifies the owner or a repair company if the pump fails or if the water level in the tank increases to an unsafe level.
  • Aside from that, monitoring wells are frequently placed to keep track on the conditions inside and outside the leach field.
  • The most expensive items are the additional equipment, as well as the earthwork and other materials that are required to construct the mound.
  • In extreme cases, a mound system can cost more than $20,000 in some locations.
  • In certain cases, annual maintenance expenditures may exceed $500.

OTHER ALTERNATIVE SEPTIC SYSTEMS

Sand filters that do not have a bottom are frequent on coastal properties and other ecologically sensitive places. There is a large variety of alternative septic systems available on the market, with new ones being introduced on a regular basis. Some are designed at community systems that serve a number of houses, and they are often monitored and maintained by a professional service provider. Some alternative systems are well-suited to particular houses, albeit the costs, complexity, and upkeep of these systems must be carefully evaluated before implementing them.

Before the wastewater reaches the leach field, which serves as a miniature replica of a sewage-treatment plant, some larger community systems employ pre-treatment to reduce the amount of bacteria present.

There are numerous other versions and combinations of systems and components that may be employed, including the following:

  • Pressurized dosing: This method makes use of a holding tank and a pump to drive effluent through the distribution pipe in a more uniform and regulated manner, hence boosting the effectiveness of the leach field. When used in conjunction with other techniques, such as a mound system, a sand filter, plastic leach fields or drip irrigation, it can be used to rehabilitate a leach field
  • However, it should not be used alone.
  • Septic system with alternative leach field made of plastic: This is a normal septic system with an alternative leach field that may be shrunk in some jurisdictions, making it ideally suited for tiny construction sites. Because the half-pipe plastic chambers provide a gap for effluent flow, there is no need for gravel in the system. Infiltrator System, for example, has been in service for more than two decades and, according to the manufacturer, can withstand traffic volumes with only 12 inches of compacted cover. The higher cost of the plastic components is somewhat countered by the lower cost of gravel and the smaller area of the drain field, respectively.
  • Sand filter: This is a big sand-filled box that is 2-4 feet deep and has a waterproof lining made of concrete or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Using filtration and anaerobic microorganisms, the sand is utilized to pre-treat wastewater before it is discharged into the leaching field. The boxes are often partially or completely buried in the ground, although they can also be elevated above ground level as necessary. While a pump and controls are typically used to equally administer the effluent on top of the filter, gravity distribution is also viable in some instances. The most common setup is shown in Figure 1. A collection tank at the bottom of the tank collects the treated effluent, which is either pumped or gravity-fed to the drain field. Some sand filters recycle the effluent back to the tank multiple times before discharging it into the drain field, while others do not. The majority of sand filters are used for pre-treatment, although they can also be utilized as the primary treatment in certain situations. A “bottomless sand filter” is used in this situation since the effluent drains straight into the soil underneath the filter (see photo above). A well designed and manufactured sand filter that is regularly maintained will prevent sand from being clogged on a consistent basis. More information about Sand Filters may be found here.
  • Aerobic treatment system: These systems treat wastewater by the use of an aerobic process, which is normally carried out in an underground concrete tank with many chambers. Aeration, purification, and pumping of the effluent are all accomplished through the use of four chambers in the most complicated systems. The first chamber functions similarly to a smaller version of a regular septic tank in its function. An air pump is employed in the second “treatment” tank to ensure that the effluent is continually injected with fresh air. The presence of oxygen promotes the growth of aerobic bacteria, which are more effective in processing sewage than the anaerobic bacteria found in a standard septic system. It is possible to utilize a third and fourth chamber in certain systems to further clarify the water and to pump out the purified water. In addition, so-called “fixed-film” systems make use of a synthetic media filter to help the bacterial process go more quickly. In the correct hands, aerobic systems may create better-quality wastewater than a typical system, and they may also incorporate a disinfectant before the purified wastewater is discharged. A smaller drain field may be used in urban areas while a larger area may be sprayed across a whole field in rural areas. Technically speaking, they are tiny sewage treatment plants rather than septic systems, and they rely mostly on anaerobic treatment to accomplish their goals. They are referred to as ATUs in some circles (aerobic treatment units). Installation and maintenance of these systems are prohibitively expensive
  • As a result, they are mostly employed in situations where high-quality treatment is required in a small area or with poor soils. A growing number of them are being built on beachfront sites. More information about Anaerobic Treatment Systems may be found here.
  • Using a pump, wastewater is sent via a filtering mechanism and onto an array of shallow drip tubes that are spaced out across a vast area for irrigation. In order to send reasonably clean water to the system, a pretreatment unit is often necessary. Alternatively, the water may be utilized to irrigate a lawn or non-edible plants, which would help to eliminate nitrogen from the wastewater. This sort of system may be employed in shallow soils, clay soils, and on steep slopes, among other conditions. Frozen tubes can pose problems in cold areas since they are so close to the surface of the water. Expect hefty installation fees, as well as additional monitoring and maintenance, just as you would with other alternative systems.
  • Wetlands that have been constructed. These are suitable for those who are environmentally conscious and wish to take an active role in the recycling of their wastewater. They may be used in practically any type of soil. An artificial shallow pond is used in the system, which is lined with rock, tire chippings, or other suitable medium and then filled with water. A pleasant atmosphere is created by the media, which serves as a habitat for particular plants that process wastewater and maintain the ecosystem. Wastewater from the septic tank is dispersed across the media bed through a perforated conduit, where plant roots, bacteria, and other microorganisms break down the contaminants in the water. The treated water is collected in a second pipe located at the back of the marsh. Household members must budget time for planting, pruning, and weeding in the wetlands area.
See also:  How Much Do It Cost To Clean A Septic Tank? (Correct answer)

Additional resources: National Small Flows Clearinghouse Inspectapedia.com You may also be interested in:Who Should I Hire For Perc Test? Whether or not alternative septic systems are permitted. Is It Possible for Septic Systems to Last a Lifetime? How Much Slope Do You Need for a Septic Line? Performing an Inspection on a Septic System When Is the Best Time to Take a Perc Test? Should I use a Sand Filter with my existing septic system? Examination of the WellSEPTIC SYSTEMView allSEPTIC SYSTEMarticles Return to the top of the page

How a Septic System Works – and Common Problems

This Article Discusses Septic Tanks are a type of septic tank that is used to dispose of waste. Field Sizing and System MaintenanceProblems with the Leach FieldSystem Performance Questions and comments are welcome. See Also: Septic System Frequently Asked Questions Articles on SEPTIC SYSTEM may be found here. In locations where there are no municipal sewage systems, each residence is responsible for treating its own sewage on its own property, which is known as a “on-site sewage disposal system,” or septic system, more popularly.

One of the most commonly seen types of leach field is composed of a series of perforated distribution pipes, each of which is placed in a gravel-filled absorption trench.

SEPTIC TANK

The wastewater is collected in the septic tank once it has been discharged from the residence. Septic tanks are normally between 1,000 and 2,000 gallons in capacity and are composed of concrete, strong plastic, or metal, depending on the model. Highly durable concrete tanks, which should endure for 40 years or more provided they are not damaged, are the most common. Many contemporary tanks are designed with two chambers in order to maximize efficiency. Household wastewater is collected in the septic tank, where it is separated and begins to degrade before being discharged into the leach field.

  1. In the tank, oil and grease float to the top of the tank, where they are known as scum, while solid waste falls to the bottom, where they are known as sludge.
  2. Bacteria and other microorganisms feed on the sediments at the bottom of the tank, causing them to decompose in an anaerobic (without oxygen) process that begins at the bottom of the tank.
  3. Solids and grease must be pushed out of the system on a regular basis in order for it to continue to function effectively.
  4. Each gallon added to the tank results in one gallon being discharged to the leach field, leach pit, or other similar treatment facility.

A large amount of water delivered too rapidly to the tank may discharge untreated effluent, along with oil and particulates, into the leach field, where it may block the field and cause a backup.

Leach Field

When used properly, a leach field (also known as a “drain field”) is a series of perforated pipes that are typically buried in gravel trenches 18 to 36 inches below grade — deep enough to avoid freezing, but close enough to the surface that air can reach the bacteria that further purify the effluent (see illustration below). As little as 6 inches might separate you from the ground surface, depending on your soil type and municipal regulations. It is customary to cover the perforated pipes with approximately two inches of gravel and a layer of topsoil that is 18 to 24 inches in depth.

  1. Grass is often sown above the ground.
  2. The leach field is comprised of rows of perforated pipes in gravel trenches that are used to spread wastewater over a vast area in order to further purify it.
  3. A bacteria-rich slime mat forms where the gravel meets the soil, and it is responsible for the majority of the water purification work.
  4. Despite the fact that wastewater freezes at a far lower temperature than pure water, freezing is still a hazard in cold areas.
  5. The leftover pathogens are converted into essential plant nutrients by these organisms, while sand, gravel, and soil filter out any solids that remain.
  6. If the system is operating effectively, the filtered wastewater will return to the aquifer as naturally clean water that is suitable for human consumption at this stage.
  7. Alternative systems may be permitted in situations when traditional leach fields are unable to function properly owing to poor soil conditions or a high water table.
  8. Special systems may also be necessary in regions where there are flood plains, bodies of water, or other ecologically sensitive areas to protect against flooding.

SIZING THE LEACH FIELD

Using perforated pipes put in gravel-filled trenches, the drain field is sized to accommodate the number of beds in the house. In order for the system to function successfully, the leach field must be appropriately sized for the soil type and amount of wastewater, which is normally determined by the number of bedrooms in the house. In order for the liquid to seep into the soil, it must be permeable enough to do so. As a result, the denser the soil, the larger the leach field that is necessary.

  • Better to have surplus capacity in your system than to have it cut too close to the bone.
  • Septic tank backup into your house, pooling on the surface of the earth, or polluting local groundwater are all possibilities if the ground is incapable of absorbing the liquid.
  • Dense clay soils will not absorb the liquid at a sufficient rate, resulting in a backlog.
  • If the soil is mostly composed of coarse sand and gravel, it might drain at such a rapid rate that untreated sewage can poison the aquifer or damage surrounding bodies of water.
  • Alternative systems may be permitted in situations when traditional leach fields are unable to function properly owing to poor soil conditions or a high water table.

These systems sometimes cost twice or three times as much as a regular system and require significantly more upkeep. Near flood plains, bodies of water, and other ecologically sensitive places, special systems may also be necessary to protect people and property.

SEPTIC SYSTEM CAREMAINTENANCE REQUIRED

If you take good care of your system, you will be rewarded with years of trouble-free operation. Pumping the septic tank on a regular basis is necessary to remove the particles (sludge) and grease layer (scum) that have built up in the tank. The solids will ultimately overflow and spill into the leach field, decreasing its efficacy and diminishing its lifespan if this is not done. The rehabilitation of a clogged leach field is difficult, if not impossible; thus, constant pumping is essential!

  1. Cooking fats, grease, and particles may also wash into the leach field if the tank is too small for the amount of water being used or if the tank is overcrowded on a regular basis.
  2. Extra water from excessive residential consumption or yard drainage can overwhelm the system, transporting oil and particles into the leach field and causing it to overflow.
  3. In addition, don’t try to complete a week’s worth of laundry for a family of five in a single day.
  4. To minimize overburdening the system, the following measures should be taken:
  • Distribute your washing loads and other high-water-use activities across the week
  • And In the kitchen and bathroom, use low-flow appliances, faucets, and fixtures. Toilets, in general, are the source of the greatest amount of water use. Water should be diverted away from the leach field from the yard, gutters, and basement sump pumps.

In addition, refrain from flushing sediments, strong chemicals, and just about anything else down the toilet or sink other than biological waste and white toilet paper. Avoid using garbage disposals in the kitchen. If you really must have one, keep it for small non-meat bits only. Avoid flushing chemicals or paints down the toilet since many chemicals can destroy beneficial microorganisms or cause water contamination in the surrounding area. Avoid flushing the following down the toilet:

  • Grease, fats, and animal scraps
  • Paints, thinners, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals
  • And a variety of other materials sanitary napkins, tampons, and other supplies Paper towels and disposable diapers are examples of such products. Egg shells, coffee grounds, and nut shells are all good options. Antibacterial soaps and antibiotics are available.

It is preferable to put grass over the leach field and to refrain from driving or parking in the vicinity. Excessive weight placed on top of the drain field might compress the earth, diminishing its efficiency as a drain field. Drain pipes can also become clogged by trees and plants with invasive roots. In order to prevent damage to the leach field, the following measures should be taken:

  • Heavy machinery should not be driven, parked, or stored on top of the leach field (or septic tank). Placement of a deck, patio, pool, or any other sort of construction over the leach field is prohibited. Remove any large trees or other plants with deep roots from the leach field. Grass is the most effective groundcover.

Even with careful use and routine maintenance, however, leach fields are not guaranteed to survive indefinitely. It is inevitable that the soil will get saturated with dissolved elements from the wastewater, and that the soil will be unable to absorb any more incoming water. The presence of an odorous wet area over the leach field, as well as plumbing backups in the house, are frequently the first indicators that something is wrong. Many municipalities mandate septic system designs to incorporate a second “reserve drain field” in the case that the first field fails.

A well constructed and maintained system should last for at least 20 to 30 years, if not longer than that. After a few tears, the initial field will naturally heal and may be used once again when the situation calls for it to be. More information on Septic System Maintenance may be found here.

SEPTIC SYSTEM PERFORMANCE PROBLEMS

Poor original design, abuse, or physical damage, such as driving heavy trucks over the leach field, are the root causes of the majority of septic system issues. The following are examples of common situations that might cause a septic system to operate poorly: Plumbing in the home. obstructed or insufficient plumbing vents, a blockage between the home and the septic tank, or an insufficient pitch in the sewer line leading from the house are all possible causes. Sewage tank to leach field connection Septic tank and leach field blockage caused by a closed or damaged tank outlet, a plugged line leading to the leach field caused by tree roots, or a blockage caused by sediments that overflowed from the tank Piping in the leach field.

Most of the time, tree roots do not make their way through the gravel bed and into the perforated pipe.

Reduced flows, achieved through the use of flow restrictors and low-flow faucets and fixtures, may be beneficial.

Because of the seasonal high water table, the soil around the trenches might get saturated, reducing the soil’s ability to absorb wastewater.

This may frequently be remedied by adding subsurface drains or curtain drains to intercept the water flow into the leach field region and to lower the water table in the immediate area around the drainage system.

Likewise, see: In order to do a perc test, who should I hire?

Is It Possible for Septic Systems to Last a Lifetime?

Performing an Inspection on a Septic System When Is the Best Time to Take a Perc Test?

Examination of the WellSEPTIC SYSTEMView allSEPTIC SYSTEMarticles Return to the top of the page

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