Soil Testing ServicesSeptic System Design
The design of your septic system is determined by which system best matches your soil and site conditions.
There are two main types of septic systems, and these are conventional and alternative septic system types. Conventional systems include gravity distribution systems and pressure distribution systems, and these are the traditional systems which include a drainage field, septic tanks, gravel, soil, and a pipe which carries the wastewater from your home. Alternative Systems can include mound septic systems, drip irrigation systems, and aerobic treatment unit systems. The description of these systems are below.
Conventional types of septic systems can handle both wastewater and solid waste, and breaks down the solids in the tank into sludge while separating any grease and oils which will float to the top to form a scum layer. An alternative septic system may have a different function and may not be able to handle blackwater waste, only graywater waste depending on the specific system chosen.
The various types of septic systems each have certain advantages and disadvantages, and your specific location, soil type, ground absorption rate, and other factors will determine which system type is best for your home. If you have a small lot or thin soil over bedrock then an alternative septic system may be the only option available, depending on the building codes where you live.