4 Popular Types of Septic Systems and How They Work

When it's time to replace or install a new septic system, you will encounter multiple types of sewer systems. Each type of septic system works differently and has unique benefits and disadvantages. Before you determine the suitability of a specific septic system, you need to know how the system works. Learn about four popular septic systems and how they work below.  

1. Conventional System 

Conventional septic systems are the most popular type there is. Many homeowners favor these systems because they cost less to install and are low maintenance. There are two types of conventional septic systems: 

Gravity Systems 

A conventional gravity system comprises a septic tank and a drain field. The structure of the system allows the system to drain water from your household to the septic tank using gravitational force. Gravity systems use a distribution box to distribute wastewater equally into lateral pipes in the drain field. The water then flows out of the lateral pipes and into a graveled trench, which directs it to the surrounding soil. 

Pump Systems 

Pump septic systems are ideal for draining water in a slightly uphill landscape. These septic systems use a pump to transfer wastewater from the septic tank to the drain field. 

In traditional septic systems, the underground trench for drainage is full of gravel for water filtration. If the gravel has any particles, they block the sewer system. The spaces in between the gravel have oxygen which accommodates aerobic bacteria. 

2. Chamber Systems 

Chamber septic systems have the length of a pipe cut in half, with slits on the sides to assist in the release of effluent water. The chamber fits within an underground trench, which helps in drainage. Wastewater from the house passes through the septic tank and into the chamber where the wastewater gets treated. Afterward, the water leaves the trench and drains into the surrounding soil. 

A chamber system has a large storage capacity, which makes it a suitable option for a household with a significant volume of water usage. 

Chamber septic systems do not have gravel in their underground trench. Hence, they are less vulnerable to blockages and the spread of aerobic bacteria. Chamber septic systems are also easier to install than traditional systems with gravel. 

3. Pressure Distribution Systems 

Pressure distribution systems are ideal when the drainage area is too far from the septic tank to drain water using gravity or when the area is significantly uphill. Pressure distribution systems also work well in sandy areas. 

Water moves from the septic tank into a pump chamber in a pressure distribution septic system. The pump chamber has floats that turn the pump on when the water rises to a certain level. When on, the pump drains wastewater through the drain field lines. Some pressure distribution systems use timers to control the pump. 

There are two types of pressure distribution systems: pressure manifolds and low-pressure pipe systems.  

4. Mound Systems 

A mound system is an effective alternative for areas with soil conditions that do not allow for proper drainage. A mound system also works well in areas with a high water table and limited soil cover. 

A mound system comprises a septic tank, a dosing chamber, and a layered absorption mound. Wastewater from the house moves into the septic tank, where its solid matter sinks to the bottom. The water then moves to the dosing chamber, which distributes wastewater at a metered rate into the mound. 

Water gets treated when moving through the mound and gets absorbed by the spoil underneath it. The depth of the layers in the absorption mound depends on the depth of the limited soil layer. 

The septic tank is the first place wastewater from the house flows into before moving to other parts of your septic system. Therefore, you must ensure you install your septic tank correctly. JT Sanitation is your best choice for septic tank installation in Lancaster, California. Contact us today to book an appointment with our septic service professionals.