What You Should Know About Different Septic Systems

If your home or business is not on city utilities, you will need to invest in a septic system. However, it is difficult to choose the type of system that is best for your property. For example, do you choose an anaerobic septic system or a gravity system? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type? These are some things you should know about septic systems.

Aerobic Treatment

Aerobic septic systems have three tanks. The first tank is used to allow the waste to settle into layers. Then, the second tank is treated using aerobic bacteria, which require oxygen to live. This oxygen is provided by bubbles that move through the waste. The third tank treats the wastewater again. After the treatment process is completed, the wastewater is distributed into your lawn, sometimes by sprinklers in the middle of the night.

Anaerobic Septic System

Like aerobic systems, anaerobic systems use bacteria to break down waste. However, the bacteria used do not require oxygen. In these systems, the liquids are drawn to the top of the tank and out the pipe that leads into your yard. The wastewater is then filtered before it is pushed into the soil. The bacteria feed on the solid waste at the bottom of the tank, eliminating it. These systems use a single tank.

Sand Filtered Septic

This septic system uses a tank and pump as well as a sand filter and drain field. It is most commonly used in areas without the soil necessary to treat the wastewater. Therefore, the water is filtered through sand before it is pushed into the drain field.

Gravity Septic

These systems don’t have tanks, pipes or pumps. They drain directly into a field of trenches. The soil cleans the waste. This system is the most commonly used.

If you experience flooding or pooling on your land around your septic system, you may need to consider upgrading it to an alternative, such as an anaerobic septic system. However, learn the advantages and disadvantages of each system before installation.