How To Renew Your Septic Tank Drainfield? (Solved)

How to restore drain field soil. Good results have been obtained by using a shock treatment consisting of four gallons of SEPTIC PERC ® applied directly to the drain field, bypassing the septic tank. This dosage is suitable for a home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

How do you rejuvenate a septic field?

Professionals take a high pressure water spray to clean and unclog your sewer lines, drains, and the leach field. Once the pipes are free from sludge and other debris causing the clogs, the septic system will be able to rejuvenate itself once again.

How often should you replace septic drain field?

How long does a septic system drain field last? A well-built and properly maintained drainfield should last for at least 20 years.

Can a drain field be repaired?

There’s usually no repair for a drainfield that has failed. You probably need to replace some or all of your system.

How long does a drain field last?

It’s important to consider the life expectancy of a drain-field, too. Under normal conditions and good care, a leach-field will last for 50 years or more. Concrete septic tanks are sturdy and reliable but not indestructible.

Can you add dirt on top of leach field?

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

How do you tell if the leach field is clogged?

Stay vigilant for five signs your drainfield does not drain correctly anymore.

Slowing Drainage. Homeowners first notice slower than usual drainage from all the sinks, tubs, and toilets in a home when they have a compromised drainfield.

Rising Water.
Increasing Plant Growth.
Returning Flow.

Developing Odors.

What are the signs that your septic tank is full?

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

Your Drains Are Taking Forever.

Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
You Hear Gurgling Water.

You Have A Sewage Backup.
How often should you empty your septic tank?

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.

How do you unclog a drain field?

Can Anything Unclog an Old Septic Drain Field?

Shock the System With Bacteria. A septic system bacteria packet can help clean out a clogged drain field by allowing waste material to break down and drain through.
Reduce Water Usage.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals.
Change to Gentler Toilet Paper and Soap.
Contact a Septic Professional.

How do you clean a septic drain field?

A common approach is to use a high-pressure water jet to clean out drain field pipes. Sewer jet products, like the Clog Hog, attach to a gas or electric power washer and then feed into the pipe to clear away any clogs or buildup.

What causes a drain field to fail?

A common reason for septic system failure is overloading the system with more water than it can absorb. In particular, water from roofs, roads, or paved areas may be diverted onto the system drainfield. This surface water will saturate the soil to the point that it can no longer absorb additional water.

3 Ways To Restore Your Drainfield

There are several properties that do not have connection to the municipal sewer system. Septic tanks, which are underground waste treatment facilities, are used to treat the waste from these homes. In order to safely handle the solid and liquid wastes that are flushed down a building’s drain, a septic system is comprised of a complicated sequence of components that all operate together. If any of these components fails, the septic system will not work properly. The drainfield is the last and most important component of both residential and commercial septic systems.

The dirt in the drainfield allows the wastewater to trickle through it and into the ground.

A blocked drain and the spilling of raw sewage into the ground surface are both possible consequences of a malfunctioning drainfield.

Drainfield additives, including biological, organic, and inorganic components, can be employed to restore the functionality of a failing drainfield.
Chemical additives, both organic and inorganic, include powerful acids and bases that can cause corrosion in a septic tank.
The bacteria in a biological additive also aid in the processing of solid waste in the septic tank and the separation of liquid effluent from solid waste released into the drainfield more efficiently.

Aeration through mechanical means Traditional septic tanks rely on anaerobic bacteria to aid in the decomposition of waste, which is why they are so expensive.
Using the power of aeration, aerobic systems may produce higher quality liquid effluent, which is subsequently discharged into the drainfield.
These bacteria can digest waste in a septic tank up to 20 times quicker than anaerobic bacteria, which is extremely beneficial.

The soil can more easily handle the liquid waste, which allows the drainfield to resume its normal function.

Substituting for It is possible that the function of an existing drainfield will not be restored.

In order to guarantee that the system continues to remove and process waste efficiently, a second drainfield can be connected to the septic tank.

This may be a pricey endeavor, so speak with an expert to evaluate whether or not new drainfield construction is the best option for you.

It is possible to effectively attach a septic tank to the first drainfield if the second drainfield encounters any issues in the future as a result of this method.

As soon as you see that your drainfield is operating inefficiently, you should take steps to rectify the situation right away.

If you are concerned about the operation of your waste processing system, you should consult with the professionals at Southern Sanitary Systems Inc.

Schedule a comprehensive examination of your septic system immediately to uncover drainfield problems and rejuvenate your septic system as quickly as possible.

Investigating Drain Field Rehabilitation for Septic Systems

Despite widespread use of municipal sewer systems, not all properties have access to them. This type of property is dependent on septic tanks, which are subterranean waste treatment systems. In order to safely handle the solid and liquid wastes that are flushed down a building’s drain, a septic system is composed of a complicated sequence of components that all operate together. Septic systems malfunction if any of these components are compromised. It is the drainfield that completes the septic system in both residential and commercial settings.

The percolation of wastewater is enabled by the soil in the drainfield.

The failure of a drainfield to perform as intended can result in blocked drains and the discharge of untreated sewage onto the ground’s surface.
1.
It is possible to restore the functionality of a failing drainfield by using biological, organic, and inorganic additives.

Chemical additives, both organic and inorganic, include powerful acids and bases that might cause corrosion of the septic tank.
It is also possible that the bacteria in a biological additive will aid in the more effective processing of the septic tank and the separation of solid waste and liquid effluent released into the drainfield.
Aeration via mechanical means (second step).

Switching to an aerobic septic system instead of a traditional septic system when a drainfield becomes blocked or begins to fail might be advantageous.

Aerobic bacteria require oxygen to survive, and this is provided by a compressor that pumps air into the main septic tank.

When waste digestion occurs more quickly, there are less organic components in the liquid that is discharged into the drainfields.

3) Substituting An existing drainfield’s ability to perform its original purpose is not always restoreable.

A second drainfield can be connected to the septic tank in order to guarantee that the system continues to remove and process waste in the appropriate manner.

Due to the high expense of new drainfield construction, you should contact with an expert to evaluate if it is necessary.

It is possible to effectively attach a septic tank to the first drainfield if the second drainfield encounters any issues in the future as a result of this procedure.

If your drainfield is operating sluggishly, you should take immediate steps to rectify the situation as quickly as possible.

If you are concerned about the operation of your waste processing system, you should consult with the professionals at Southern Sanitary Systems, Inc.

Schedule a comprehensive examination of your septic system immediately to discover drainfield issues and rejuvenate your septic system as soon as possible.

Septic System Design

Septic systems are often designed in a straightforward manner, making them less expensive to construct and operate in the long run. Septic systems are less disruptive to the environment because they use natural processes to treat wastewater on site, which is typically in a homeowner’s backyard. Because they do not involve the building of miles of sewage lines, they are less harmful to the environment. Aside from that, there are numerous creative designs for septic systems that allow them to be installed in regions with shallow soils or other site-related factors that were previously regarded inappropriate for on-lot treatment and dispersal before being developed.

The sewage produced by a septic tank hence is unsuitable for direct release into surface waters or onto land surfaces.

In order to do this and dispose of the partially treated wastewater, the most popular method is to use subsurface soil absorption through the use of a septic drain field.

The breakdown of a system component is a direct result of failing to maintain it.

Septic System Failure

Septic system failure can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty placement, design, or construction, as well as the simple misuse of water-generating appliances, among others. When a septic system fails, it has the potential to damage neighboring water supplies and put the public’s health in peril. Children are the most vulnerable to these health concerns since they are the ones that come into touch with the polluted regions on a regular basis. As long as the septic tank is waterproof and is pumped on a regular basis, there is very little that can go wrong with it itself.

Known sometimes as a septic drain field, a soil absorption system is a network of perforated pipes or chambers that are placed underground and transmit processed wastewater—the liquid outflow (effluent) from a septic tank—out across a vast area of soil.

In addition to absorbing organic waste, decreasing or eliminating bacteria and viruses, and removing certain nutrients from effluent, the drain field also serves as a natural filter for the water.
If the soils are no longer able to receive the effluent being supplied, the effluent will either rise to the ground surface or “blow out” at the end of the final trench, depending on the circumstances.
As soon as the effluent reaches the drain field, microorganisms in the soil begin to flourish as a result of the increased food supply.

a snapshot from a Marshall Remodel video on building a septic system, taken from the YouTube channel Marshall Remodel. You can see the entire video here:.

What Causes Septic Drain or Drain Field Failure?

There are a variety of factors that might cause drain field failure, including severe rainfall, tree roots interfering with the drainlines, the disposal of decay-resistant materials, cars driving over the system, and cracked pipes. Hydraulic overloading and biological overloading are the two most prominent causes of this condition. Hydraulic overloading occurs when an inadequately built system is subjected to an excessive amount of water. Groundwater and bedrock depths, as well as other site factors, are taken into consideration while developing an initial system design.

Capacity is typically measured in terms of the number of bedrooms in a house, however this may not be a reliable method of determining the amount of flow generated.
It is critical to avoid introducing an excessive amount of water into the system at one time.

The installation of equipment such as trash disposals and dishwashers can have a significant impact on the quality of the wastewater that is discharged into the system.
In order to accommodate the added load from appliances, many municipal and state regulatory agencies mandate that onsite systems be greater in capacity.

How to Restore Septic Drain Field

The ability to acquire particular information about a malfunctioning onsite system is critical in order to identify the problem and choose the best course of action. When collecting detailed information on a system, the following procedures might be very useful:

Visual examination of the failure should be carried out in order to confirm the issue. Ensure that all system components are thoroughly inspected, and that any mechanical components, such as float switches and flow diverters, are thoroughly tested. Ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the system’s functioning and maintenance history. A review of the previous three to five years of operation and maintenance will frequently uncover a potential problem. It may be as easy as pumping the tank or cleaning the tank filter to make the necessary adjustment. It is also necessary to assess the age of the system. Obtain a copy of the original permission, as well as any modifications to the permit. Among the information in this permit will be a layout of the system derived from a site survey or original design drawings
Calculate estimated loading rates based on the original design and permit. Examine the findings of the soil testing. The permission should specify that soil samples be conducted to determine the soil profile and to locate any soil boundaries that may be present if they are not already included in the permit. Obtain a detailed report on the signs and symptoms of the failure. For example, surfacing effluent above the drain field indicates that the soil may be overburdened, either with an excessive quantity of total water or with an excessive amount of organic matter, which has blocked the soil pores and caused them to get clogged. Additionally, if the failure is seasonal in nature, it is likely that moist weather conditions were the root reason. Determining the amount of waste water that enters the system is important. When using data from the dwelling’s water meters, it is necessary to compare the actual flow (even if it is predicted) to the design loadings. This will provide a decent estimate of how much wastewater is entering the wastewater system on a regular basis. Leaking plumbing fittings will cause this statistic to be skewed, since more water will enter the system as a result. In order to prevent further leakage, all leaking fittings must be fixed.

Before any remedial measures are performed, it may be required to take some more steps to test the ideas that have been generated. Wastewater metering or testing, equipment testing and monitoring, or more soil testing may all be beneficial in determining the root cause of the system failure more precisely. Before any corrective action can be taken, it is possible that repair permits will be necessary. Make contact with your local health department or permitting agency to find out what is necessary in order to receive such a license.

Remediation Techniques

Before any remedial actions are made, it may be required to take some more steps to test ideas. Further investigation into the reason of the system failure may include wastewater metering and testing, equipment testing and monitoring, or more soil testing.

Before any corrective work can be undertaken, it is possible that repair permits will be necessary. For more information on what is necessary to get such a permit, contact your local health department or regulatory agency. CONNECTED: The Leaky Proposition of Septic System

Long-term Solutions

Corrective procedures alone are not always sufficient; in some circumstances, a new soil absorption system must be developed. It is possible to install new soil absorption systems either in a separate region so that the old system is not disrupted, or between the existing trenches if there is sufficient space. An alternate drain field system includes these extra lines, which are regarded to be part of the system. An additional diversion valve has been constructed in order to allow for the future redirection of septic tank wastewater to either of the two soil absorption systems, if necessary.

The process of renewal takes around two years.

(If a septic tank pumper can open the field and remove as much of the ponded wastewater as feasible, the old drain field will recover more quickly.) An owner who has installed a replacement system should switch back to the original drain field after two years, and then alternate between the two systems on a yearly basis beyond that point.

In order to keep track of the state of the drain fields, it is recommended that each field have an observation tube installed.

Alternatively, if there is insufficient space for a new system and the existing system is a trench system with at least 6 ft of undisturbed soil between the trenches, it may be conceivable to interlace new replacement trenches between the existing ones.
Another alternative for reducing the organic load on the drain field is the installation of a sophisticated treatment system, such as an aerobic treatment unit or an asand filter, to treat the wastewater.
They are typically used to rehabilitate biologically blocked, failing septic tank soil absorption units that have become clogged.

Sand filters, which are made out of a bed of sand approximately 2 or 3 feet thick and frequently enclosed in a liner, are designed to accept partially treated effluent in a series of intermittent dosages.
Sand filters are extremely effective at eliminating large concentrations of suspended particles and are capable of withstanding strong hydraulic loads, among other things.
Although comparable to septic tanks in that they treat wastewater through natural processes, aerobic treatment units (ATUs) require oxygen in order to function properly, whereas septic tanks do not.

During the aerobic treatment process, bacteria that thrive in oxygen-rich conditions work to break down and digest the wastewater that passes through the unit.
When compared to conventional septic tank effluent, which contains suspended particles in the range of 100 to 250 mg/L, this extra step reduces the quantity of total suspended solids to less than 10 to 15 mg/L (total suspended solids fewer than 10 to 15 mg/L).

Aerobic effluent produces the symptoms in circumstances where the soil absorption units have failed as a result of excessive biomat development in the soil.

Drainfield – Septic System Components – Part II Restore

Drainfields are available in a variety of configurations. There are several elements that influence the design of a drainfield. These include the size and topography of the lot, the depth of the water table, the soil conditions and kinds, among other things. Although the size of a drainfield can be customized to any degree, most states and municipalities have minimum size criteria that must be met. The designs discussed in this chapter are as follows:

Cesspool (or Cesspit)–in Part I
Drywell (or Seepage Pit)
Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU)Aeration Systems

Mound Systems
Holding Tank
Cesspool (or Cesspit)–in Part I

Drywell (or Seepage Pit):

An absorption area for a drywell is increased by adding a layer of crushed stone around the outside diameter, which is similar in design to a cesspool. The drywell is often a secondary chamber that is installed in series after the septic tank or cesspool, and it is designed to admit only cleared effluent from a septic tank or gray water into the chamber. Furthermore, drywells can be used to return storm water to the earth or to shift basement drainage water to an area where it is not in contact with groundwater.

Mound Systems:

When there is insufficient soil depth between the ground water table and the drainfield, a mound system is employed to prohibit the usage of a gravity or pressure distributed drainfield dug below grade. A mound system is comprised of a drainfield that is elevated above the natural soil surface by means of an artificial mound that contains a specified sand fill material and is created above the natural soil surface. There is also a gravel bed within the sand fill that is connected to a network of perforated distribution components, which are commonly PVC pipes.

Effluent is treated in its final stage of treatment when it filters through the sand and into the natural soil under the surface.

It is essential that the down slope region below the mound is preserved on sloping locations.

Holding Tank:

A holding tank is a self-contained, waterproof sewage tank that does not have an exit for wastewater to discharge into the environment. A temporary measure is most usually employed to allow for the continuing occupation of a home until a more permanent solution can be found. Regular pumping of holding tanks is required in order to prevent overflows or back ups into the house. When sewers are not accessible and there is no suitable location for an on-site septic system, several schools and other public sites rely on this method to meet their needs.

Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU):

This device provides oxygen into any anaerobic septic system, allowing aerobic microorganisms to flourish and the system to be converted from anaerobic to aerobic status. When compared to an anaerobic system, which processes only 40 percent of the solids in the tank and allows 60 percent to flow to the drainfield, the aerobic bacteria are far more efficient, processing up to 90 percent of the solids in the septic tank.

This results in biomat clogging over time with the aerobic bacteria.

Conclusions

It is possible for both the drywell and mound designs to fail in the same way over time; with time, they become impermeable, preventing the sewage from your septic tank from being absorbed into the ground and finally failing. Fortunately, you will not be required to rebuild your drainfield in order to restore your septic system to working order. It has been created by Aero-Stream® a product and procedure that may be used to repair and restore any form of failing drainfield. Read the Septic System Owners Manual, download and print the Septic System Report and call us toll free to learn more about our product and septic systems in general by exploring around our website and contacting us.

How Do I Unclog a Septic Leach Field

Heavy particles can collect in septic field lines and clog perforations, causing the lines to fail to drain properly. The majority of septic systems that are more than 20 years old exhibit this characteristic. In certain cases, when an older septic system fails to drain properly, it is a symptom of tree roots obstructing the lines, problems with surrounding soils, structural damage to a pipe, or an improperly designed system.

A sewer jetter may be used to clean perforated PVC septic leach field lines with an ID ranging from 2″ to 6″

With the use of a sewage jetter, you may scrape away sticky sludge and flush out unclean residue, which can help lessen the need for repeated cleaning of the lines. In addition, the Needle NoseTM drain cleaner has a stronger, braided steel jacket as well as a distinctive compact nozzle tip that allows it to pass through a wider range of drain types and sizes. A gaspressure washer with a flow rate of 2.0 GPM to 4.0 GPMis frequently necessary, because septic sludge can be difficult to scrape and flush out of the line without a lot of force. Electric pressure washers do not have enough force to clean and rinse away the thick muck
Instead, they use water. In most cases, it is advisable to find and expose septic lines by digging a large enough hole under the downhill end of each septic line to allow sludge to run out and collect while you clean the opened line. Another option is to find and expose the distribution box, and then manually feed the sewer jetter through each of the lines that exit the box after it has been exposed. While it is possible to properly flush the sludge upward toward the opening box, it is more difficult, and you will need to pump out the heavy residue that runs back into the box. Starting at an uphill entrance or distribution box, the septic field lines should be allowed to drain or be pumped free of standing fluids so that they contain mostly biomat particles, because nozzle jets provide little cleaning and flushing action when fully submerged in liquid. For further information, please see this 3-minute video (which is a segment of Steve Maxwell’s do-it-yourselfSeptic System Rescuevideo course)

Please keep in mind that a sewer jetter operated by your pressure washer will not be able to clean septic field lines constructed of flexible hose with an inside diameter of less than 2 inches, or septic fields made up of interlocking plastic chambers with an inside diameter of more than 6 inches. Important: If you suspect that there may be tree roots in the septic leach field lines, you should do the following: It is possible to loosen fine tree roots using a sewage jetter, and then pull out lengthy strings of roots by hand or with a leased motorized drum auger that is equipped with a root cutting blade if there are numerous fine tree roots. It is possible that you may need to start by renting a mechanical drum auger with a root cutting blade to loosen the tree roots, and then flush the line with a sewer jetter to eliminate any remaining septic sludge
However, this is not always necessary.

With the aid of a sewage jetter, you may scrape away sticky sludge and flush out unclean residue, therefore reducing the need for repeated cleaning of the lines. In addition, the Needle NoseTM drain cleaner has a stronger, braided steel jacket as well as a distinctive compact nozzle tip that allows it to pass through a wider variety of drain types and sizes. Because septic sludge may be difficult to scrub and flush out of the system, a gaspressure washer with a flow rate of 2.0 GPM to 4.0 GPMis frequently necessary. It is impossible to scrape and flush thick sludge with an electric pressure washer because of its insufficient force. In most cases, it is advisable to find and expose septic systems by excavating a large enough hole under the downhill end of each septic line to allow sludge to run out and collect while you clean the opened line. Other options include finding and opening the distribution box and manually feeding the sewage jetter through each line that comes out of the box. While it is possible to properly flush the sludge upward toward the opening box, it is more difficult, and you will have to pump out the heavy residue that runs back into the box. Starting at an uphill entrance or distribution box, the septic field lines should be allowed to drain or be pumped free of standing fluids so that they contain mostly biomat particles, because nozzle jets provide practically little cleaning and flushing action when completely submerged in liquid. Check out this three-minute video (which is part of Steve Maxwell’s do-it-yourselfSeptic System Rescuevideo course) for further information. Please keep in mind that a sewer jetter operated by your pressure washer will not be able to clean septic field lines constructed of flexible hose with an inside diameter of less than 2 inches, or septic fields made up of interlocking plastic chambers with an inside diameter of larger than 6 inches. The following information is critical if you suspect that tree roots may be growing in the septic leach field lines: It is possible to loosen fine tree roots using a sewage jetter, and then pull out lengthy strings of roots by hand or with a leased motorized drum auger that is equipped with a root cutting blade if there are several fine tree roots. The use of a rented mechanical drum auger with a root cutting blade to dislodge bigger tree roots and then flushing the line with a sewer jetter to eliminate septic sludge may be necessary in some cases if the tree roots are substantial.

Put on a pair of work gloves that are resistant to fluids and eye protection. If you have reason to assume that the drain contains drain cleaning chemicals, proceed with caution. Hook up the drain cleaner to your trigger gun, turn on the pressure washer, and then direct the nozzle at least a foot into the exposed septic field line entrance before you begin to apply the water. As you push the trigger, make sure to guide the sewer jetter into the line. Every few feet, draw back approximately halfway and then continue pushing ahead
This will provide a more complete cleaning. Immediately after you have done cleaning the pipe, remove the drain cleaner from the line. Use caution when releasing the trigger to prevent the water from flowing through the nozzle before it reaches the aperture. After that, repair any damaged fittings, inspect the system, and replenish the fill dirt.

If you’re not confident in your ability to complete any of these tasks, hiring a septic service business may be a better option in the long run. To locate a service firm in your region, do the following:

In order to get a recommendation for a firm that has performed comparable services for them, start by asking relatives, friends, and coworkers for recommendations. Search local directories such as Google Maps, Yelp, andCitySearch for service firms in your area that have received positive online reviews if you are unable to obtain a solid suggestion from someone you know. Don’t always believe reviews from persons who have written only a few previous reviews, or from those who exclusively provide favorable evaluations to everyone they interact with. You should be aware that even reputable service providers might receive a tiny percentage of unfavorable reviews for a variety of reasons that are not necessarily relevant to your situation. Choose an organization that has a large number of favorable, believable evaluations from customers who have had repairs identical to yours performed. After you have identified one or more service providers that appear to have a decent reputation, conduct an online search for the company’s name as well as the names of any persons who work for the company, if any. It is important to take into consideration both the positive and bad information you discover about the firm. Be aware that reputable service businesses may experience a backlog of several days at busy seasons, such as when temperatures are low, significant rain falls, or holidays fall on a weekend or holiday. In certain cases, high demand can be a symptom of a firm that has a large number of recurring clients

If you have any queries or comments, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Septic Solutions – Installation

There are four primary types of septic systems to consider. The availability of all four types may not be available to every homeowner due to the fact that municipal rules may prohibit the installation of traditional systems in areas where soil absorbtion or drainfield space is restricted. Furthermore, each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks to consider. The majority of municipalities need an engineer to do a site review. The outcomes of this examination will decide the alternatives available to the homeowners.

Installation prices also differ depending on the system type, so there is a lot to consider when deciding which system is ideal for you.

Conventional Systems

Traditional septic systems may be divided into two categories: those that employ gravel in the drainfield and those that use some sort of chamber system. The earlier stylegravelled system, as the name implies, comprises a layer of gravel in the drainfield. In the course of the building, a drainfield ditch is dug that is 1 to 3 feet below ground level. Its length is decided by the amount of effluent that will be discharged into the system from the house or rural office, as well as the soil’s ability to absorb water during the winter months.

In order to prevent backfill dirt from filtering between the rocks and decreasing the field’s ability to absorb water, more gravel is poured around and over the pipe.

Despite the fact that some waste is treated in septic tanks by bacteria that live within the tank, the majority of waste treatment happens when wastewater discharged from the tank enters the drainfield and is filtered through the gravel and soil below.
These organisms grow and produce a layer known as a biomat, which sits on top of the soil layer and protects it.
The presence of these organisms helps to maintain the biomat from getting so thick that it prevents wastewater from reaching the soil below while the drainfield is in equilibrium.

Because gravel is used to filter the effluent, it instantly reduces the capacity of the effluent to reach soil, which is where the majority of the filtation takes place.
Apart from that, even when competent contractors utilize solely cleaned gravel, a certain quantity of particles is certain to stay and eventually reach the soil level, further lowering the possibility of filtering.
This can happen when the water table rises over the drain pipe, essentially cutting off the drainfield’s capacity to release water completely.

After that, there’s the chance of drainfield overflow, which can occur when there are more visitors in the house for extended periods of time or when taps or toilets are left running for extended periods of time.

Some of the disadvantages of gravelled systems are alleviated by gravelless conventional systems.

Typically, these chambers are made of molded high-density plastic and are available in lengths ranging from 10′ to 12′ feet.

Because we have discovered that the Infiltrator chamber system is the most successful when used in North Texas soils, Septic Solutions of Texas solely employs the Infiltrator chamber system.

When the system is put into service, waste water is transported via pipe from the septic tank to the chamber run, where it flows directly against the earth.

This is particularly effective in areas where the water table might rise near to the surface, as well as in situations where there is a brief rush in demand as a consequence of additional visitors.

Obviously, shock loading for extended periods of time will have a negative impact on the biomat since oxygen will not be accessible to parasites during these durations.

Low-Pressure Dose Systems

Low-pressure dosing systems (also known as low-pressure pipe systems) may be a viable option in situations when soil and topographical factors do not allow for the installation of a typical septic system, such as urban areas. Particularly relevant in situations where geography dictates that the drainfield be positioned up-hill from the septic tanks or where there is uneven terrain that would otherwise prevent the installation of a traditional system. Low-Pressure Dose Systems (LPDs) are designed to function in the following ways: A pumping chamber is placed in addition to the typical septic tank, which is a type of holding tank.

The drainfield for an LPD application is made up of tiny perforated pipes laid in shallow, gravel-lined trenches that range in depth from 10″ to 18″ and in width from 12″ to 18″.
After then, the field is allowed to drain.

Shallow placement also encourages evapo-transpiration, which is the process by which evaporation and grass and other shallow-rooted vegetation serve to remove waste.
Alarms will be activated if there is a significant increase in flow.
Whenever a drainfield is not placed on a slope, the system will be constructed in such a manner that effluent does not exit the pumping chamber after the pump has been switched off.

Furthermore, because of the employment of a low-pressure pump, the whole drainfield will be utilized in a consistent manner.
However, there are several disadvantages to LPDs, including the possibility of root penetration and the blockage of drain holes by particles that leave the pumping chamber.

Finally, LPDs must be serviced on a regular basis. Electricity, a pump, and a smaller drainfield all raise the likelihood of system failure. As a result, most regulatory agencies now mandate septic system inspections by qualified septic specialists on a yearly or semi-annual basis.

Evapotranspiration Systems

The use of Evapotraspiration Systems (ETs) is often only practicable in arid and semi-arid environments. To put it simply, we are interested in climates where evaporation surpasses rainfall by at least 24 inches per year. The EP system is based on the natural evaporation of wastewater via a sand barrier, as well as the simultaneous transpiration of water through the leaves of plants and grasses grown above the drainfield, to remove pollutants. In contrast to the methods mentioned above, an ET system consists of a trench lined with an impervious barrier that drains to a collection basin below ground.

Above the gravel is a layer of sand that is raised above the level of the surrounding ground.
Naturally, this sort of system performs best during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, when heat and sunlight combine to deliver the most effective wastewater treatment.

Applications in places with short soil depths and impermeable rock or hardpanlayers beneath the surface are recommended.
Additionally, after the system has been in operation for an extended length of time, there is the possibility of salt accumulation near the surface.
This is essentially the same system as an ET system, with the difference that the drainfield is not enclosed in this configuration.

Generally speaking, wastewater must be able to flow through at least 2 to 4 feet of unsaturated soil before reaching the ground water table in order to be effective.
In North Texas, most permitting authorities demand the construction of two fields, with the owner physically switching the wastewater flow between the fields once a month, as well as the building of two fields.

Aerobic Wastewater Treatment Systems

At this point, aerobic septic systems stand out as the only system that can be used in virtually all case where septic systems are needed. In essence, when you own an aerobic system, you are the owner of a miniature version of a municipal sewage treatment facility. As a result, your aerobic system closely resembles many of the stages and operations carried out by a municipal solid waste treatment facility. Aerobic systems and septic systems are similar in that they both treat wastewater via the use of natural processes.

The increase in oxygen promotes the natural bacterial consumption of waste inside the system as a result of the increase in oxygen.
Upon completion of this process, the resultant discharge water is clean and pure enough to be released directly over the absorption field using sprinklers.
The installation of aerobic systems is currently mandated by many regulatory authorities, including those in North Texas, for both new house construction and the replacement of failing conventional, LPD, and Evapotranspiration systems.
A low-cost maintenance contract will lessen the need for intervention and care on the part of the homeowner.
There is less solid waste entering the aerobic chamber as a result of this method.
Following that, the wastewater enters the aerobic chamber, where air is compressed and pumped into the wastewater in order to promote the development of good bacteria that eat the particles in the wastewater.
After that, the treated water is pumped into a pumping chamber, where it undergoes a last treatment with unstabilized chlorine before being discharged.

The pump will discharge the water into the absorption field when a float valve within the pump chamber detects the presence of water.

In most cases, aerobic systems are not significantly more expensive to build and operate than traditional septic systems.

Typically, they are less expensive to build than LPDs or Evapotranspiration systems since they do not require the use of sand and/or gravel to prepare a drainfield prior to installation.

This maintenance contract will provide you with the assurance that your plant will operate in accordance with specifications at all times.

If your maintenance contract expires before the end of this period, you will be required to either renew it or seek a new one from another waste water treatment specialist.

For further information, please see this link.

You will not be able to acquire a building permit till this study is completed. Septic Solutions of Texas retains ownership of the copyright and reserves all rights.

Frequently Asked Questions about Septic Systems

Aerobic septic systems, without a doubt, are the only system that can be used in practically any case where septic systems are needed. Owners of aerobic systems are effectively the owners of a miniaturized version of a municipal wastewater treatment facility. As a result, your aerobic system closely resembles many of the stages and operations carried out by a municipal solid waste treatment facility. Both aerobic and septic systems treat wastewater via the use of natural processes, which makes them comparable.

Natural bacterial consumption of waste inside the system rises as a result of the increase in oxygen.
Upon completion of this process, the resultant discharge water is clean and pure enough to be released directly over the absorption field using sprinklers.
” The installation of an aerobic system is now required by many regulatory authorities, including those in North Texas, for both new house construction and failing conventional, LPD, and Evapotranspiration systems.
It will be less necessary for homeowners to intervene and care if they have a reasonably priced maintenance contract.
There is less solids entering the aerobic chamber as a result of this method.

Once in the aerobic chamber, where air is compressed and pumped into the wastewater to promote the development of good bacteria that devour particles, the wastewater is treated as follows: However, because not all particles are digested by the bacteria, the mixture is next sent through a settling or clarifying chamber, where any leftover solids can settle and be absorbed by new bacteria.

This is not the same chlorine that you use to shock your pool; rather, it is a highly concentrated tablet type of chlorine that has been particularly produced for the treatment of sewage.
Once this cleaned water has reached the field, pop-up sprinklers are used to spread it around the area.
Systems are specifically constructed with alarms and control boxes to ensure that they are always in correct working condition.
You must retain the services of a skilled expert in order to receive the periodic certification letters required by the majority of regulatory bodies because you are essentially running your own wastewater treatment facility.
Manufacturers include a two-year warranty term in the purchase price of the product they are selling to you.
aerobic system maintenance contracts are available from Septic Solutionsof Texas to aerobic system owners in North Texas at three different levels.

This is true regardless of the sort of system you want to install. You will not be able to acquire a building permit till this study is completed. Septic Solutions of Texas retains ownership of the copyright 2003- and reserves all other rights.

System types that are conventional include passive systems with drainfields, gravelled or stone systems, chambered system leachfields, low-pressure dosing systems, evapotranspiration systems, and aerobic wastewater treatment systems.

Questions Applicable to All Types of Septic Systems

Is it necessary for me to seek a permit in order to repair my septic system? Yes. Repairing any form of septic system in Texas requires a permit that has been granted by the state, with limited exceptions. In order to ensure that the individual performing the repairs has sufficient expertise and knows the proper methods and protocols for fixing the system, this law was enacted. Environmental protection, as well as the protection of the homeowner and his neighbors, are the goals of the law. What is the procedure for getting a permit for a repair or an installation?

The kind of soil, the location of the system in relation to creeks, rivers, lakes, and property lines, as well as the type of septic system to be repaired or rebuilt, as well as the installation or repair plan, are all taken into consideration in the permit application.
In light of the possible problems associated with acquiring permits, the majority of service providers ask that the homeowner complete and submit the application on their behalf.
Is it safe to flush toilet paper down the toilet?
Based on the number of bedrooms in the house, the size of the holding tank is determined.
Because of this, using toilet paper should not pose an issue as long as the system is not needed to process more wastewater than it was designed to manage.
This answer is dependent on the size of the system as well as the amount of individuals that are utilizing the system to provide it.

	Household size (number of people)
	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9+
Tank Size (gallons)	Duration (in years) Between Pumpings or Inspections
1, 750	19.1	14.2	12.6	1.8	1.3	1.0	0.7	0.6	0.4
1,000	12.4	15.9	13.7	2.6	2.0	1.5	1.2	1.0	0.8
1,250	15.6	17.5	14.8	3.4	2.6	2.0	1.7	1.4	1.2
1,500	18.9	19.1	15.9	4.2	3.3	2.6	2.1	1.8	1.5
1,750	22.1	10.7	16.9	5.0	3.9	3.1	2.6	2.2	1.9
2,000	25.4	12.4	18.1	5.9	4.5	3.7	3.1	2.6	2.2
2,250	28.6	14.0	19.1	6.7	5.2	4.2	3.5	3.0	2.6
2,500	31.9	15.6	10.2	7.5	5.9	4.8	4.0	3.5	3.0

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality contributed the information in the table above. Is it necessary for me to add any supplements to my system? The majority of the time, additives are not required to keep a well functioning septic system running. However, there are occasions when a system becomes overwhelmed with organic material, and the enzymes and bacteria found in additives might actually be beneficial. The possibility of this occurring arises when a system is temporarily forced to process more garbage than it was designed to handle, as in the case of repeated big parties or an influx of guests for a prolonged period of time.

Flooding Related Questions Applicable to All Types of Septic Systems

Water overflowing from a traditional drain field might cause a septic system to flood if the field has been saturated by rain or rising stream, creek, or river water. Flooding happens in an aerobic system when the aerobic tanks become overflowing with runoff rain water and the system ceases to operate. In any instance, the first indicator that there is a problem is generally the fact that the toilets are no longer flushing correctly. In addition, because shower and bath drains are typically positioned at the lowest gravity point in the home, raw sewage may back up into these drains first.

When dealing with a flooded septic system, the following are some usual procedures to follow: What actions should I take if I fear that my septic system has been contaminated by water?

If at all possible, avoid using the system when the drain field or tanks are completely submerged in water. It is unlikely that the wastewater will be cleansed, and it will instead become a source of pollution. Conserve water to the greatest extent feasible while the system strives to recover itself and the water table drops. Make every effort to keep silt from entering the pump chamber if you have an aerobic septic system (with electric pumps). The presence of silt in the pump chamber after flooding causes it to settle, which might block the drainfield or harm the pump if it is not removed before flooding occurs. When opening the septic tank for pumping when the earth is still damp, proceed with caution and extreme caution. Mud and silt may find their way into the tank and end up in the drain field. In addition, pumping out a tank that is resting in moist soil may cause the tank to “jump out” of the earth as it is being removed. Because the earth may not have entirely settled and compacted, newer systems are more prone to pop out than older systems. While the land is still wet or flooded, it is not recommended to dig into the tank or drainfield area. Try to avoid operating any heavy gear near the drainfield or tanks while they are wet, since they are particularly prone to harm while they are flooded. This type of action has the potential to permanently impair the soil’s capacity to transmit fluids. When the septic tank is flooded, it frequently removes the floating crust of fats and oils that has formed on top of the tank. Some of this muck may float to the surface and plug the outflow tee partly. First and foremost, if your septic system is backing up into your home, check for blockages in the tank’s outflow. Clean up any floodwater that has accumulated in the house without dumping it into the sink or toilet, and give the water time to recede before continuing. Floodwaters in a house that are later pushed through or pumped through the septic tank will generate greater than typical flow rates through the system as a result of the flooding. As a result, the likelihood of an outlet tee being clogged increases considerably. Avoid coming into contact with any electric pump or equipment that may have been submerged during the flood unless the device has been thoroughly cleaned and dried. Mud and silt may have blocked aerobic systems, upflow filters, trickling filters, and other media filters, causing them to get clogged. Prior to restarting the system, these systems will need to be washed, scraped, and otherwise cleaned
And

What should I do once the floodwaters have receded from my home?

If you have an in-ground well, wait until the water has been tested by your county health agency before drinking it. Please refrain from making use of your sewer system until the water level in your soil absorption field is lower than any water level everywhere else in your home. If you feel that your septic tank has been damaged, you should get it professionally inspected and maintained. Damage can be detected by the presence of apparent settling or settlement of the ground above the tank, as well as the incapacity of the system to absorb extra water. Because most septic systems are below ground and entirely protected, flooding does not do significant harm to them. Septic tanks and pump chambers, on the other hand, can get clogged with silt and dirt, necessitating their cleaning. A new system may be required if the soil absorption field becomes clogged with silt due to the fact that there is no practical means to clear up the buried lines in an absorption field. In order to avoid the risk of harmful gases and germs being released into the environment, get your tanks fixed or cleaned by skilled professionals. Cleaning and disinfecting the basement floor should be done if sewage has backed up into the space. A chlorine solution containing half a cup of chlorine bleach per gallon of water should be used.

Questions Specific to Aerobic Wastewater Treatement Systems

What is the process for renewing my Aerobic System maintenance contract? Upon installation, each aerobic system is accompanied with a complimentary two-year maintenance contract, which begins the day after the installation procedure is complete. The installation business is first responsible for providing this service. Because most systems are reasonably simple to maintain during their first two years of operation, several installers do not provide maintenance services after that initial two-year period.

Every year after you sign a maintenance contract with Septic Solutions, your agreement will be automatically renewed.
The homeowner is responsible for all costs related with maintenance, chlorine, and pumping (as needed) of the pool.
Our customers may select the contract that is most appropriate for their needs.
The following activities are carried out during a normal maintenance visit: This will differ depending on the service provider.
Aside from that, we also examine the amount of sludge in your holding tank.
What role do the air and water pumps play in an aerobic system, and how significant are they?
The air pump is used to aerate the wastewater and speed up the breakdown processes in the wastewater treatment plant.

If one of these systems fails to function correctly, the wastewater will become septic.

Is the water that is released from an aerobic system safe to consume?

Before the water is sprayed via the spray field, it is treated to destroy or eradicate germs, and then it is discharged again.

How much does chlorine cost on an annual basis?

We give our clients the option of installing a Smart=Chlor Liquid Chlorinator, which may be run at a far lower cost of chlorine than a traditional liquid chlorinator.

The most common causes of aerobic system odors are: 1) an excessive amount of chemicals being introduced into the system, 2) the presence of a restriction in the air supply, 3) more wastewater being introduced into the system than the system was designed to handle, and 4) an insufficient supply of disinfectant.

When should I add chlorine to my water?

You should keep an eye on your system to ensure that there are always a minimum of 2-3 chlorine pills in the tube at any one moment.

According to Texas law, homeowners are permitted to maintain their own wastewater systems if they have completed a 6-hour, state-approved Basic Wastewater Operations Course, passed the state test, obtained a Class D Wastewater Certificate, and obtained a certification from the manufacturer of their specific wastewater system.

Given the time commitments required to obtain a certificate, the inherent unpleasantness of checking sludge levels, and the requirement that only licensed septic providers perform all necessary repairs, the majority of customers prefer to have their system’s maintenance performed under contract with a certified sewer contractor.

Questions Specific to Non-Aerobic Wastewater Systems

What is the best way to determine the source of a problem with my non-aerobic septic system? On our website, we provide a diagnostic tool that will assist you in identifying the portion of your system that is causing the problem. Septic Solutions of Texas retains ownership of the copyright and reserves all rights.