Alternative septic systems are designed to solve environmental challenges in wastewater management. They are made up of three primary components which are offering efficient wastewater treatment, especially in areas where traditional septic setups may not be that effective.
In this article, you will learn about the components of an alternative septic system and how to maintain it.
The Septic Tank
A septic tank is a container that collects and treats wastewater. It’s typically made of materials like concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene.
When wastewater enters the tank, it separates into three layers:
- Heavy solid particles – they stay at the bottom, creating sludge.
- Clarified liquid – this is the middle layer, called effluent.
- Lighter solids – those can be oils that rise to the top, forming scum.
The Pump Chamber
This component of the alternative septic system is also constructed from durable materials. Once separated, the effluent, or treated wastewater, exits the septic tank and enters the pump chamber. Its job is to orchestrate effluent’s controlled transfer and distribution to the drain field.
Efficient effluent management relies on components like the pump and pump control floats within the pump chamber. The pump transfers effluent from the septic tank and the pump control floats are responsible to regulate its distribution to the drain field. This ensures that the effluent is managed effectively.
The Drain Field
Diverging from traditional drainage fields, the alternative septic system’s drain field adopts an elevated configuration. Consisting of layers including soil, gravel, and specialized sand fill, this arrangement facilitates enhanced filtration and treatment of effluent.
Effluent from the pump chamber is directed through pipes embedded in the specific sand fill, controlling the water dosage entering the drain field. As wastewater percolates through this unique sand composition and natural soil layers. It undergoes further treatment, effectively neutralizing harmful bacteria and viruses.
When Alternative Septic Systems Are Used?
Traditional septic systems may prove ineffective in regions characterized by challenging environmental conditions such as shallow soil depth, rocky substrates, or high groundwater levels. Alternative septic Systems offer a tailored solution, providing efficient wastewater treatment where standard installations are impractical.
Are There Challenges With The Maintenance?
To ensure the continued functionality of your alternative septic system, regular maintenance is vital.
Common maintenance challenges include:
- Overcrowded septic tanks due to inadequate maintenance or infrequent cleaning.
- Drain field malfunctions originating from issues within the septic tank.
- Clogged pipes disrupting system functionality.
To address these challenges, you need essential maintenance services:
- Septic system inspections to detect and address potential issues promptly.
- Regular cleaning and pumping of the septic tank to optimize it’s performance.
- Septic system repairs conducted by specialists to rectify malfunctions or damage promptly.
To maintain alternative septic systems, hiring licensed professionals with the necessary expertise, proficiency, and specialized instruments is important. This helps ensure that these systems continue to function properly and protect not only the environment, but also your health. Licensed professionals in your area can provide this service.
Alternative septic systems are the perfect solution for regions with limited wastewater treatment options. They are reliable and efficient, and can work better than traditional methods in certain conditions.
To ensure that your alternative septic system is working correctly, it’s important to work with experts who can help you maintain it. Regular maintenance is key to running your system smoothly and keeping your environment safe and healthy. By taking these steps, you can make sure that your system is working as it should and that you are doing your part to protect the planet.
