How Do I Use An Above Ground Septic Tank? (Best solution)

One of the easiest solutions is to simply dig a hole for your outhouse. After the hole is sufficiently filled up, simply fill in the hole, dig another one, and place your outhouse over the new hole in the ground. Keep in mind that this solution only works if your property is far away from any other house.

How does a above ground septic tank work?

Wastewater flows from the home to a septic tank, then via gravity to a pumping tank which pumps it to a sand mound located above ground level, where it is evenly distributed throughout the drain field.

Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?

The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.

Are above ground septic tanks good?

Above ground holding / septic tanks are ideal for bulk waste storage. We offer them 250, 300 and 440 gallons. They are made out of HDPE plastic and are black in color. They are great for storage under trailers.

How do I hide my above ground septic tank?

The Do’s For Hiding Your Septic Tank

Plant tall native grasses with fibrous roots around the opening to conceal the tank lid from view.
Place a light statue, bird bath or potted plant over the septic lid.
Septic tank risers and covers are an alternative to concrete and blend into green grass.

Does shower water go into septic tank?

From your house to the tank: Most, but not all, septic systems operate via gravity to the septic tank. Each time a toilet is flushed, water is turned on or you take a shower, the water and waste flows via gravity through the plumbing system in your house and ends up in the septic tank.

How deep should a septic tank be in the ground?

The general rule of thumb is that most septic tanks can be buried anywhere from four inches to four feet underground.

How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?

How much does it cost to pump out a septic tank? The average cost is $300, but can run up to $500, depending on your location. The tank should be pumped out every three to five years.

How long does it take to put a septic tank in the ground?

While every situation is different, you can safely assume that it will take anywhere from six weeks to two months for a total septic system install, just to be on the safe side. Contact Express Septic Services for an estimate and current timeline that you can have a new septic system installed for your home.

What can I use instead of a septic tank?

Alternative Septic Systems

Raised Bed (Mound) Septic Tank Systems. A raised bed drain field (sometimes called a mound) is just like what it sounds.

Aerobic Treatment Systems (ATS) Aerobic systems are basically a small scale sewage treatment system.
Waterless Systems.

Are septic tanks still legal?

Septic Tanks Explained… Septic tanks cannot discharge to surface water drains, rivers, canals, ditches, streams or any other type of waterway. you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.

Is it OK to drive over drain field?

Can You Drive on a Septic Drain Field? No, driving over your septic drain field is similarly never ever recommended. As much as you are able to help it, prevent cars or heavy equipment (such as oil delivery trucks, swimming pool water trucks, cement mixers, and also the like) to drive straight over the field.

How do I connect two septic tanks together?

Use a 4-inch pipe to connect the two septic tanks. Place this pipe into the inlet hole of your new septic tank before you lower it into the ground. After you’ve lowered your new septic tank, insert the other end of the pipe into your old septic tank’s outlet hole.

Do above ground septic tanks smell?

A properly-maintained septic tank should be odor-free, so if you notice a bad smell inside your home or outside near the leach field, it’s a sign that there’s a problem. Septic odors are caused by gases in the system, including carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane.

Can you walk on a septic mound?

Low-maintenance perennial plants that minimize the need to walk on the mound are ideal. Walking compacts the soil and may interfere with the evaporation of effluents. Do as little digging as possible when planting to avoid disturbing the mound and be sure to wear gloves to minimize your physical contact with the soil.

Above Ground Septic System: How They Work and Their Advantages

Because of the greater risk of failure associated with traditional septic systems, when site circumstances are not ideal for establishing a conventional septic system, an above ground septic system, also known as a sand mound system, is utilized for on-site sewage treatment. A look at the key factors that might cause a septic system to fail, the implications of a failure, and how an above-ground septic system can provide a solution to these issues are discussed in this article. Every residence that is not linked to a sewage system requires some means of treating the sewage that is created by the individuals who live in the home in which they are located.

In most cases, they are comprised of an underground concrete, plastic, or fiberglass chamber divided into two portions.

The sediments are processed anaerobically within the chambers, while the residual effluent is discharged through gravity into a drain field, where it is naturally filtered by microorganisms in the soil before being discharged into the groundwater under the surface.

Typically, there are three naturally occurring characteristics that make it impossible to establish a traditional underground septic tank system that discharges to a conventional drain field.

When the percolation rate of the soil is either slow or too quick, the soil’s permeability is reduced. Effluent will reach groundwater without being effectively filtered or cleaned by microorganisms in extremely permeable soils (such as very sandy soils) with a fast percolation rate in highly permeable soils. It is possible, however, that water will not drain away quickly enough in soils with poor permeability (such as clay soils) and a low percolation rate because of this. A result of this may be waterlogging in nearby soils and surface ponding that can be hazardous to human health and well-being in the long run. As previously stated, the primary goal of a drainage field is to allow for the unsaturated flow of effluent to the groundwater, which exposes the wastewater to microorganisms in the soil that break down waste and destroy pathogens, it is critical that the soil does not become too saturated in order for treatment to be effective (as explained in greater detail below).

When there is a limited layer, which is often a shallow layer of soil sitting over a layer of clay, porous bedrock, or perched groundwater wedged between rock and soil, the effluent treatment efficacy is reduced as it filters through the soil. Having a high water table occurs when there is insufficient distance between the drainfield and the water table to filter and treat the effluent before it reaches the water table, resulting in the groundwater becoming polluted and potentially endangering drinking water supplies. If the groundwater becomes polluted, the contaminants can be transferred away from the location via lateral groundwater movement, contaminating neighboring freshwater systems
Should this occur.

The use of a traditional septic system is not recommended when one or more of the circumstances listed above exist because the septic system is more likely to collapse, creating an environmental and human health hazard. Above-ground septic systems, which allow for more suitable conditions to be established above ground level by artificially increasing the height of the filter bed, are a more acceptable sewage treatment option in these types of situations, and are becoming increasingly popular.

Protecting EnvironmentalHuman Health

Grey water (from sources such as bathing/showering, laundry, dishwashing, and so on) and black water (from sources such as toilets, sinks, and so on) constitute household wastewater (human waste). If not treated properly, this effluent can include a wide range of chemical contaminants and pathogenic organisms that can be dangerous to human health if not treated properly. Typhoid, cholera, dysentery, giardiasis and other gastrointestinal illnesses can occur as a result of the presence of disease-causing microbes in human feces.

When clay or tight soils are prevalent, a sand mound method is used.

loading=”lazy” src=”is-pending-load=1 038;ssl=1″ alt=”above ground septic system” loading=”lazy” src=”is-pending-load=1 038;ssl=1″ width: 501 pixels, height: 571 pixels ” data-recalc-dims=”1″ data-lazy-src=” is-pending-load=1 038; ssl=”” srcset=”data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAP” data-recalc-dims=”1″ data-lazy-src=” is-pending-load=” is-pending-load=1 038; ssl=”” data-recalc Septic system with a sand mound The contamination of soils, groundwater, and surface water systems by improperly treated human waste can pose a health risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, whether directly or indirectly, for example, through the consumption of contaminated water, the consumption of contaminated food (e.g., fruits, vegetables, shellfish), or the swimming in contaminated rivers, lakes, or coastal bays Furthermore, because untreated sewage is both unattractive and foul-smelling, it is definitely not something you want to have pooling up on your back yard lawn.

The opposite appears to be true, as flies, rodents, and even the family dog are drawn to it like bees to a honeypot, spreading it around the house, as well as any diseases that may be lurking inside it, according to the author.

Infants who are exposed to nitrates in their drinking water can develop blue baby syndrome, which is characterized by a decrease in the capacity of the blood to transport oxygen, and which can be deadly.

Take a look at our above-ground septic system maintenance plan for more information on how to maintain these sorts of systems operating efficiently for extended periods of time.

How do Sand Mound Septic Systems Work?

Wastewater is channeled from the residence to a septic tank, where it is pumped to a sand mound positioned above ground level, where it is spread equally over the drain field. When wastewater is discharged into the drain field, it percolates through the sand and gravel bed, where microorganisms in the soil digest any harmful bacteria that may be present.

Removal of Pathogens

Wastewater goes from the residence to a septic tank, then by gravity to a pumping tank, which pumps it to a sand mound placed above ground level, where it is equally dispersed over the drain field, as seen in the illustration. When wastewater is discharged into the drain field, it percolates through the sand and gravel bed, where microorganisms in the soil eliminate any harmful pathogenic bacteria that may be present.

Removal of Nutrients

Septic systems that have vegetation planted in them not only seem more visually beautiful, but they also perform better in terms of overall performance. Water absorbed by the plant roots from the soil serves two purposes: 1) it reduces the likelihood of the soil becoming waterlogged, and 2) it allows the plants to absorb dissolved nutrients (such as those responsible for blue baby syndrome and algal blooms) for their own growth, thereby reducing the risk of the soil becoming waterlogged. However, it is critical to pick vegetation judiciously, preferably grass and/or tiny plants with shallow root systems rather than large trees and shrubs.

Key Components of an Above Ground Septic System

Generally speaking, above-ground septic systems are comprised of three major components: 1) a septic tank (pretreatment unit), 2) a dosing chamber that houses the pump, and 3) an above-ground sand mound that acts as a drainage bed for the system.

The Septic Tank

This enormous concrete, polyethene, or fibreglass chamber that is buried below serves as a pretreatment separation chamber. The septic tank is where the effluent from the home is disposed of. Upon entering the tank, the wastewater divides into three layers: the heavier solid matter (sludge) falls to the bottom, the middle layer consists primarily of liquid effluent, and the lighter particles (scum) float to the top. The anaerobic bacteria that flourish in these oxygen-free circumstances breakdown some of the sludge that accumulates at the bottom of the septic tank’s bottom.

The Dosing Chamber

The dosing chamber, also known as the pump chamber, is also made of concrete, polyethene, or fiberglass, and is equipped with a pump, pump control floats, and a high-water alarm float. It collects the effluent that flows from the septic tank and is connected to the main sewer line. As soon as the level of the effluent in the tank reaches that of the control float, the pump is activated and begins pumping a predefined volume of effluent up to the sand mound, which is placed above the ground level.

Adjusting the control floats located in the pump chamber allows for the delivery of the most suitable volume of effluent that the mound is capable of processing.

Designed to activate if the effluent levels increase above the ‘on’ float without triggering the pump, this feature is configured to activate.

It is a good idea to make certain that the pump can be removed without breaking a sweat in the event that things go horribly wrong.

In order to make access to the pump as simple as possible, a fast release coupler should be installed on the discharge line of the pump. In the event that the pump fails, a length of nylon rope linked to it will make it easier to remove it from the chamber.

The Sand Mound

Essentially, the sand mound is a drainage field that has been intentionally constructed by raising a drainage bed above the natural surface of the surrounding land. It is made up of a bed of sand and gravel that has a distribution system made up of perforated pipes that transports the water. The effluent in the dosing chamber is pushed up to the mound at low pressure in order to guarantee that it is distributed evenly throughout the drainage bed. The effluent then trickles out of the tiny holes in the pipes and down through a bed of gravel into a sand mound beneath the pipe system.

Things to Consider WhenDesigningSand Mound Septic Systems

When planning to build an above-ground septic system, it is critical to understand the soil qualities of the area in question. It is important to have a professional soil evaluation performed by a trained soil analyzer to get the best results. According to your location, this may be required by law, but even if it is not, it is still a good idea to do so in order to determine the flow rate of the soil so that the septic system can be designed and sized for optimal performance according to the specific site conditions on which it is installed.

Some regions need the creation of a designated space for the construction of a replacement mound — it is always a good idea to have a backup plan.

Conclusion: Advantages of an Above Ground Septic System

It is possible to use an above-ground septic system as an alternative to an underground system on sites where the soil characteristics are inappropriate for standard in-ground sewage treatment systems. Septic systems with sand mounds not only conserve groundwater by artificially raising the vertical separation layer, but they also do not discharge directly into a surface water body such as a ditch, stream or river, which reduces the possibility of damaging nearby freshwater systems. As little excavation is required for the building of a sand mound drain field, construction damage is generally kept to an absolute minimum provided all steps are followed with caution.

They are the best option in these situations and should be considered.

Please watch the following video to gain some insight into the building of an above-ground septic system.

Please contact us with any questions you have about our services, prices, or appraising your lot:

How Above Ground Septic Systems Work

Images from EyeEm/EyeEm/Getty Images courtesy of George Mdivanian.

In order to compensate for poorly absorbing local soils that cannot sustain a normal underground septic system, above-ground septic systems, also known as mound systems, were designed. Many of these systems are located in rural locations where there is no public sewer and where standard septic systems cannot be used due to environmental restrictions.

Simple Waste Management System

Septic systems are comprised of two key components that must work together. The first is a septic tank, which is constructed of waterproof concrete or fiberglass and is used to collect solid waste known as “sludge.” It combines the local soils to absorb liquid sewage (effluents) through a subterranean system of perforated pipes, which transports the liquids to a predetermined region known as the leach field. According to the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services, not all soil and site conditions are suitable for typical septic systems.

According to the Ohio State University Extension, mound systems are suited for soils having a limiting layer that is 12 to 36 inches below the surface of the soil.
The septic system, the pump chamber and pump, and the mound with its replacement area are the components of the system.
The design may have two tanks or a single tank with two chambers, depending on the needs of the project.

It features a built-in sump pump that pumps liquid wastes up to the above-ground absorption mound, which is located in the second chamber.

Layered Sand, Gravel and Soil

The first layer of the mound is a tilled-up layer of dirt from the septic tank location, which is the second layer. Following that, a layer of sand is applied over the freshly tilled soil. Afterwards, a layer of gravel and pipe is carefully positioned and linked to the dosing chamber below it. The gravel is then covered with a construction-grade cloth, and finally, another layer of dirt is added to complete the absorption mound’s construction. The last layer of soil is supplemented in order to encourage grass to grow fast over the mound, which will aid in the prevention of erosion problems.

Mound systems are often long and narrow in shape, and they must be constructed in accordance with the contours of the construction site.

When you flush the toilet or drain the bathtub, the waste is sent directly into the septic tank without being treated.

Once the waste (effluent) has been pumped up and distributed throughout the gravel and sand layers These effluents naturally filter through the soil, where they are recycled back into the environment, where they serve primarily as an excellent fertilizer for the top layer of soil.

Mound systems, like other septic systems, require expert maintenance on a regular basis. According to the Ohio State University Extension, this entails pumping out the dosing and septic tanks every one to five years, as well as cleaning the tanks.

Above Ground Septic Tanks

Septic holding tanks, job trailer waste tanks, job trailer septic tanks, job shack tanks, waste tanks, trailer waste tanks, camper septic tanks, cottage septic tanks, and motorhome septic tanks are all terms used to describe above-ground septic tanks. Septic tanks have not been certified by the Food and Drug Administration to store or carry drinkable water, and thus should not be utilized for this purpose. Their major function is to hold human waste, sewage, and black water in a contained environment.

Recreational vehicles, mobile homes, cottages, campsites, job trailers, and job shacks are all examples of structures where septic tanks are the only available option.
The majority of the time, they are employed as portable black water tanks.
These plastic trash tanks are made from high-density virgin polyethylene resin that has been rotationally manufactured.

The use of UV inhibitors during the manufacture process protects the tank from sun damage, allowing it to be used either indoors or outdoors without deterioration.
These advantageous characteristics help to ensure that the tanks have a long and effective lifespan.
They do not require any particular equipment to carry, and they may be moved into position by two individuals working together.

Above-ground septic tanks are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 250 gallons to 440 gallons in volume capacity.
They are opaque and are available in two colors: black and gray.
Any additional connections, ports, or lids that are required for the tanks can be installed.

Five Reasons You Should Consider an Above Ground Septic Tank

If you are considering installing a new septic tank at your residence or place of business, you may have the impression that the tank would be buried underground and out of sight. Many sewage tanks, for example, can be safely kept above ground, for example, beneath a porta cabin, which is not always the case. As specialists in septic tank supply, we at ASAP Septic Tanks are pleased to provide a comprehensive selection of above-ground septic, sewage effluent, and sewage treatment tanks. There are several advantages to purchasing an above-ground sewage tank as opposed to one of its underground equivalents, as listed below.

Installing it is simple and inexpensive.
The fact that these sewage tanks are above ground means that they incur lower expenditures in terms of soil disposal and excavation.

Above-ground sewage tanks are a convenient sewage solution because of all of these factors.
This type of tank may also be installed with kid protective lids if you have a particularly curious youngster and are concerned about your tank being unintentionally opened.
Versatile Septic tanks, which are located above ground, are perfect for keeping effluent waste for a short period of time.

Low-maintenance When not in use, above-ground septic, sewage, and effluent tank systems can be kept in storage for an extended period of time.
Because they are so little maintenance, these septic tanks are great for site owners who are often on the go.
Above-ground septic tanks have the advantage of being extremely flexible.

Various useful accessories, such as a high-level alarm, an air vent system, and additional fill stations, can be added to them as well.
Purchase one right away!
If you want a fitting service, we can provide all of the essential parts as well as the fitting service.

We even provide free shipping to the whole of the United Kingdom! Simply get in contact with us here at ASAP Septic Tanks by phoning 01623 232240 or sending an email to [email protected] to find out more. We’d be pleased to assist you with getting dressed.

Above-Ground Septic Tanks

In general, above-ground septic tanks (sometimes known as “holding tanks”) are wastewater storage tanks that are elevated above the ground surface. Small, portable polyethylene tanks are available in capacities of 250 and 350 gallons, and they can be used for temporary sewage storage in a variety of settings. Above-ground storage tanks may also be useful in water-front regions where below-ground storage and leaching are forbidden due to environmental regulations.

The Drawbacks of Sewage Holding Tanks

While holding tanks are occasionally used in summer cottages that do not have modern plumbing choices, permanent above-ground tanks are only employed in a very small number of situations (at least in the United States). They have a variety of disadvantages, including:

If they are not used in conjunction with a leaching field, they must be emptied on a regular basis, which is an unpleasant (and potentially expensive) operation. The sewage is normally transferred into the above-ground tank through a pump if the above-ground tank is used in combination with a leaching area (rather than gravity.) It is possible that this will cause particles in the sewage to be split up into smaller bits, which will then escape out of the tank along with the effluent. It is possible that the sediments may settle out of the effluent and will become clogged in the pipelines that lead to the leaching fields. Because above-ground tanks are exposed to the weather, they tend to wear out more quickly than their underground counterparts, which are submerged several feet beneath the ground.

Types of Septic Systems

It is necessary to empty leaching fields on a regular basis if they are not used in conjunction with a leaching field, which is an unpleasant (and sometimes costly) chore. The sewage is normally transferred into the above-ground tank by a pump if the above-ground tank is utilized in combination with a leaching area (rather than gravity.) This can cause the particles in the sewage to be broken up into smaller bits, which can then escape the tank with the effluent and pollute the environment. It is possible that the sediments may settle out of the effluent and will become clogged in the pipes leading to the leaching fields.

Septic Tank, Conventional System, Chamber System, Drip Distribution System, Aerobic Treatment Unit, Mound Systems, Recirculating Sand Filter System, Evapotranspiration System, Constructed Wetland System, Cluster / Community System, etc.

Septic Tank

This tank is underground and waterproof, and it was designed and built specifically for receiving and partially treating raw home sanitary wastewater. Generally speaking, heavy materials settle at or near the bottom of the tank, whereas greases and lighter solids float to the surface. The sediments are retained in the tank, while the wastewater is sent to the drainfield for further treatment and dispersion once it has been treated.

Conventional System

Septic tanks and trench or bed subsurface wastewater infiltration systems are two types of decentralized wastewater treatment systems (drainfield). When it comes to single-family homes and small businesses, a traditional septic system is the most common type of system. For decades, people have used a gravel/stone drainfield as a method of water drainage. The term is derived from the process of constructing the drainfield. A short underground trench made of stone or gravel collects wastewater from the septic tank in this configuration, which is commonly used.

Effluent filters through the stone and is further cleaned by microorganisms once it reaches the soil below the gravel/stone trench, which is located below the trench.

In terms of total footprint, gravel and stone systems are very substantial, and therefore may not be appropriate for all residential sites or situations.

Chamber System

Gravelless drainfields have been regularly utilized in various states for more than 30 years and have evolved into a standard technology that has mostly replaced gravel systems. Various configurations are possible, including open-bottom chambers, pipe that has been clothed, and synthetic materials such as expanded polystyrene media. Gravelless systems can be constructed entirely of recycled materials, resulting in considerable reductions in carbon dioxide emissions during their lifetime. The chamber system is a type of gravelless system that can be used as an example.

The key advantage of the chamber system is the enhanced simplicity with which it can be delivered and built.
This sort of system is made up of a number of chambers that are connected to one another.

Wastewater is transported from the septic tank to the chambers through pipes.
The wastewater is treated by microbes that live on or near the soil.

Drip Distribution System

An effluent dispersal system such as the drip distribution system may be employed in a variety of drainfield configurations and is very versatile. In comparison to other distribution systems, the drip distribution system does not require a vast mound of dirt because the drip laterals are only placed into the top 6 to 12 inches of soil. In addition to requiring a big dosage tank after the sewage treatment plant to handle scheduled dose delivery of wastewater to drip absorption areas, the drip distribution system has one major disadvantage: it is more expensive.

Aerobic Treatment Unit

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) are small-scale wastewater treatment facilities that employ many of the same procedures as a municipal sewage plant. An aerobic system adds oxygen to the treatment tank using a pump. When there is an increase in oxygen in the system, there is an increase in natural bacterial activity, which then offers extra treatment for nutrients in the effluent. It is possible that certain aerobic systems may additionally include a pretreatment tank as well as a final treatment tank that will include disinfection in order to further lower pathogen levels.

ATUs should be maintained on a regular basis during their service life.

Mound Systems

Unlike a municipal sewage plant, Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) employ many of the same procedures as that facility. When oxygen is introduced into the treatment tank, the system is known as an aerobic system. Due to the increased natural bacterial activity inside the system, the system is able to provide extra treatment for nutrients in the effluent as a result. It is possible that certain aerobic systems will additionally include a pretreatment tank as well as a final treatment tank that will include disinfection in order to further lower the pathogen levels.

ATUs should be subjected to routine life-cycle maintenance.

Recirculating Sand Filter System

Sand filter systems can be built either above or below ground, depending on the use. The effluent is discharged from the septic tank into a pump compartment. Afterwards, it is pushed into the sand filter. The sand filter is often made of PVC or a concrete box that is filled with a sand-like substance. The effluent is pushed through the pipes at the top of the filter under low pressure to the drain. As the effluent exits the pipelines, it is treated as it passes through the sand filtering system.

However, sand filters are more costly than a standard septic system because they provide a higher level of nutrient treatment and are thus better suited for areas with high water tables or that are adjacent to bodies of water.

Evapotranspiration System

Evaporative cooling systems feature drainfields that are one-of-a-kind. It is necessary to line the drainfield at the base of the evapotranspiration system with a waterproof material. Following the entry of the effluent into the drainfield, it evaporates into the atmosphere. At the same time, the sewage never filters into the soil and never enters groundwater, unlike other septic system designs. It is only in particular climatic circumstances that evapotranspiration systems are effective. The environment must be desert, with plenty of heat and sunshine, and no precipitation.

Constructed Wetland System

Construction of a manufactured wetland is intended to simulate the treatment processes that occur in natural wetland areas. Wastewater goes from the septic tank and into the wetland cell, where it is treated. Afterwards, the wastewater goes into the media, where it is cleaned by microorganisms, plants, and other media that eliminate pathogens and nutrients. Typically, a wetland cell is constructed with an impermeable liner, gravel and sand fill, and the necessary wetland plants, all of which must be capable of withstanding the constant saturation of the surrounding environment.

The operation of a wetland system can be accomplished by either gravity flow or pressure distribution. As wastewater travels through the wetland, it may escape the wetland and flow onto a drainfield, where it will undergo more wastewater treatment before being absorbed into the soil by bacteria.

Cluster / Community System

In certain cases, a decentralized wastewater treatment system is owned by a group of people and is responsible for collecting wastewater from two or more residences or buildings and transporting it to a treatment and dispersal system placed on a suitable location near the dwellings or buildings. Cluster systems are widespread in settings like rural subdivisions, where they may be found in large numbers.

Above Ground Fiberglass Septic Tanks and Treatment Plants — Engineered Septic, Package Plants, and Effluent Sewer Solutions

Are you looking for a septic tank that is above ground instead of underground? A large number of our commercial operations need the use of OrencoT-MAX units, particularly where burying a concrete or fiberglass primary tank may be problematic or expensive owing to a high water table and shallow bedrock or other site circumstances. The T-MAX tank is available in a number of different configurations, allowing you greater flexibility and customization depending on your application. These T-MAX units can be discharged either by gravity or by pumping to the next treatment step.

Our team is now working on a project installation in the Virginia highlands, which will take place at a campsite.

Installing the system with just minimum digging necessary was made possible by utilizing the T-MAX and AX-MAX Mobile systems.

Have a question or a project in mind that you would like to discuss?

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE INSTALLING A HOLDING TANK

Septic tank and holding tank are two words that are frequently used interchangeably. Despite the fact that they are both sanitation systems, there are significant variances between them. Both types of tanks collect wastewater from the home, but they each manage this effluent in a different manner than the other. If you want to learn more about installing a holding tank, continue reading to discover more about this type of sanitation system. 1. IN DISTINCTION FROM SEPTIC TANKSA septic tank is a large vessel that collects and treats household wastewater through an inlet pipe, releases the treated water into a drainfield, and allows the water to percolate underground.

A holding tank is also used to collect wastewater from the home, which is accessed by an inlet.
2.
Owners should pump holding tanks significantly more regularly than they do septic tanks, as they are only meant to be temporary storage devices for waste.

Holding tanks are equipped with an alarm that will sound when the tank is nearly full and requires pumping.
Failure to pump can result in sewage overflowing into your house or facility, which will severely undermine the sanitary conditions of your residence or facility.
If you want to prevent clogging the system, consider using tissue designed particularly for holding tanks.

HOLDING TANKS REQUIRE PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATIONA lot goes into putting up a holding tank that is both useful and safe.

Additionally, you must determine the proper depth for building the subterranean tank as well as complete complex plumbing operations.

You will also be required to provide a site plan, a holding tank design plan, and a plan explaining how you intend to maintain the unit in addition to your other submissions.

Holding tank installation specialists that are well-known for their work may assist you in complying with the rules and regulations that govern the installation and maintenance of your holding tank.

The cost of establishing a holding tank will vary depending on a variety of factors, including permit costs, labor expenses, and the state of the site.

Holding tanks, on the other hand, may have a greater maintenance cost than other types of units due to the constant pumping of these units.

Overall, when comparing the upfront costs of building, running, and maintaining a septic tank to the cost of a holding tank, the holding tank comes out on top for property owners looking for the most value for their money.

It can be used in a variety of situations. Do you want to put up a holding tank at your plant to store waste? You can rely on the professionals at Pete’s Outflow Technicians to complete the work correctly. Make a phone call now to talk with one of our knowledgeable professionals.

Holding Tanks vs Septic Systems

In addition to holding tanks, you may have heard of them if you’re new to septic tank systems or if you’re just eager to learn more. So, what exactly are them, and what is the distinction between them? Taking a deeper look at holding tanks and septic systems will allow you to evaluate which is most appropriate for your home’s situation. What is a holding tank, and how does it work? A holding tank accomplishes exactly what its name suggests: it holds liquids. It is used to store wastewater from your house.

The frequency of pumping will vary, but on average, a holding tank that is used on a regular basis will require pumping once a month on average.
However, while holding tanks are often used in residences, they are better suited for tiny homes, trailers, recreational vehicles such as RVs, boats, and other watercraft.
Septic tank solutions are used to solve this problem.

A septic tank is similar to a holding tank in that it is meant to retain wastewater from your home.
Despite the fact that a septic tank will need to be drained around once a year, it is intended for long-term operation.
In conjunction with regular maintenance, such as inspections, pumping, and repairs as soon as a problem appears, septic systems are an excellent solution for homeowners searching for an alternative to municipal sewage treatment.

Affordable Pumping Services will get you on a schedule for regular pumping services right now.

3 Ways Above Ground Pool Can Harm Your Septic System

Time spent in the water is a part of the summer’s enjoyment, and for some, it is a must in order to endure the growing temperatures. However, life is hectic, especially during the summer months when school is not in session, and finding time away from work to visit the pool, lake, or river is not always feasible. Pools are great for entertaining, but the expense of constructing an in-ground pool is prohibitively expensive for many families. Above-ground pools are the ideal solution since they offer a handy option to spend time in the water without incurring the expense of an in-ground pool installation.

Some of the reasons why this might not be the greatest idea are as follows:

Access to the tank is restricted. It is suggested that your septic tank be pumped out at least once every three years to ensure that all sediments and residue are removed. During the breakdown and separation of solids from liquids that occurs inside your tank, the solids accumulate and produce a layer of silt that must be pumped out of the tank to prevent it from overflowing. According to the sorts of chemicals, cosmetic products, and other stuff that you flush into your septic system, you may need to have this pumping done once a year, but no more than once every three years. In the event that you have an above-ground swimming pool over the area where your tank is buried, the technician will be unable to reach your tank and will thus be unable to provide an accurate assessment of the structural integrity of the tank. Because of this, it is strongly advised that you do not put off tank pumping. Clogs and leaks are common. In your septic system, the drain field is responsible for transporting liquids that have been treated by bacterial enzymes and are no longer needed in the system. However, if a foreign object is accidentally flushed down the toilet, it might produce a clog in your septic drain pipes, resulting in a backup of sewage in your yard. It is critical to gain access to the drain line pipes as soon as possible in order to minimize the harm that a clogged drain line might do to your property and house. Access to your drain field pipes will be significantly delayed if you have an above-ground pool installed that is filled with several hundred gallons of water
The weight of an above-ground pool that is filled with several hundred gallons of water can cause the soil that supports your septic system to shift, which results in sagging and cracking of the pipes and damage to the drain field itself. Consequently, there will be an accumulation of sewage on your property.

If you have a septic system and are considering installing an above-ground swimming pool, you should consult with a specialist.

If your land permits it, you can consider installing the pool at a location other than where the system is underground, or even in the front yard of a neighboring home.

Alternative Septic Systems For Difficult Sites

This Article Discusses Mound Systems are a type of system that is used to build mounds. Alternative Systems are also available. View and post commentsQuestions Septic System FAQsView all articles on the SEPTIC SYSTEM If your lot does not pass the perc test, some towns may enable you to construct an engineered system as a backup plan if the perc test fails. For waterfront estates and other ecologically sensitive places, alternative water-treatment systems may also be necessary to aid in the protection of water supplies.

A “mound” system operates in much the same way as a normal system, except that the leach field is elevated above the natural grade.
They require more frequent monitoring and maintenance in order to avoid complications.

It is possible that the technology will not operate as planned if either the designer or the installer is inexperienced with the technology.
The design of a system is particular to the soil type, site circumstances, and degree of consumption that is being considered.
Some states and municipalities will only accept system types that have been certified in their jurisdiction, and they may also demand that the owner maintain a service contract with a vendor that has been approved by the state or municipality.

MOUND SYSTEMS

Mound systems are often two to three times more expensive than ordinary septic systems, and they need more frequent monitoring and maintenance. To see a larger version, click here. Ohio State University Extension provides the following information: The mound is comprised of a network of tiny distribution pipes that are embedded in a layer of gravel on top of a layer of sand that is normally one to two feet deep. Topsoil is applied to the tops and sides of the structure (see illustration). A dosing chamber (also known as a pump chamber) is included in a mound system, and it is responsible for collecting wastewater that is discharged from the septic tank.

Most feature an alarm system that notifies the owner or a repair company if the pump fails or if the water level in the tank increases to an unsafe level.

Aside from that, monitoring wells are frequently placed to keep track on the conditions inside and outside the leach field.

The most expensive items are the additional equipment, as well as the earthwork and other materials that are required to construct the mound.

In extreme cases, a mound system can cost more than $20,000 in some locations. Additionally, owing of the increased complexity, mound systems need more regular pumping as well as additional monitoring and maintenance. In certain cases, annual maintenance expenditures may exceed $500.

OTHER ALTERNATIVE SEPTIC SYSTEMS

Sand filters that do not have a bottom are frequent on coastal properties and other ecologically sensitive places. There is a large variety of alternative septic systems available on the market, with new ones being introduced on a regular basis. Some are designed at community systems that serve a number of houses, and they are often monitored and maintained by a professional service provider. Some alternative systems are well-suited to particular houses, albeit the costs, complexity, and upkeep of these systems must be carefully evaluated before implementing them.

Before the wastewater reaches the leach field, which serves as a miniature replica of a sewage-treatment plant, some larger community systems employ pre-treatment to reduce the amount of bacteria present.

There are numerous other versions and combinations of systems and components that may be employed, including the following:

Pressurized dosing: This method makes use of a holding tank and a pump to drive effluent through the distribution pipe in a more uniform and regulated manner, hence boosting the effectiveness of the leach field. When used in conjunction with other techniques, such as a mound system, a sand filter, plastic leach fields or drip irrigation, it can be used to rehabilitate a leach field
However, it should not be used alone.

Septic system with alternative leach field made of plastic: This is a normal septic system with an alternative leach field that may be shrunk in some jurisdictions, making it ideally suited for tiny construction sites. Because the half-pipe plastic chambers provide a gap for effluent flow, there is no need for gravel in the system. Infiltrator System, for example, has been in service for more than two decades and, according to the manufacturer, can withstand traffic volumes with only 12 inches of compacted cover. The higher cost of the plastic components is somewhat countered by the lower cost of gravel and the smaller area of the drain field, respectively.

Sand filter: This is a big sand-filled box that is 2-4 feet deep and has a waterproof lining made of concrete or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Using filtration and anaerobic microorganisms, the sand is utilized to pre-treat wastewater before it is discharged into the leaching field. The boxes are often partially or completely buried in the ground, although they can also be elevated above ground level as necessary. While a pump and controls are typically used to equally administer the effluent on top of the filter, gravity distribution is also viable in some instances. The most common setup is shown in Figure 1. A collection tank at the bottom of the tank collects the treated effluent, which is either pumped or gravity-fed to the drain field. Some sand filters recycle the effluent back to the tank multiple times before discharging it into the drain field, while others do not. The majority of sand filters are used for pre-treatment, although they can also be utilized as the primary treatment in certain situations. A “bottomless sand filter” is used in this situation since the effluent drains straight into the soil underneath the filter (see photo above). A well designed and manufactured sand filter that is regularly maintained will prevent sand from being clogged on a consistent basis. More information about Sand Filters may be found here.

Aerobic treatment system: These systems treat wastewater by the use of an aerobic process, which is normally carried out in an underground concrete tank with many chambers. Aeration, purification, and pumping of the effluent are all accomplished through the use of four chambers in the most complicated systems. The first chamber functions similarly to a smaller version of a regular septic tank in its function. An air pump is employed in the second “treatment” tank to ensure that the effluent is continually injected with fresh air. The presence of oxygen promotes the growth of aerobic bacteria, which are more effective in processing sewage than the anaerobic bacteria found in a standard septic system. It is possible to utilize a third and fourth chamber in certain systems to further clarify the water and to pump out the purified water. In addition, so-called “fixed-film” systems make use of a synthetic media filter to help the bacterial process go more quickly. In the correct hands, aerobic systems may create better-quality wastewater than a typical system, and they may also incorporate a disinfectant before the purified wastewater is discharged. A smaller drain field may be used in urban areas while a larger area may be sprayed across a whole field in rural areas. Technically speaking, they are tiny sewage treatment plants rather than septic systems, and they rely mostly on anaerobic treatment to accomplish their goals. They are referred to as ATUs in some circles (aerobic treatment units). Installation and maintenance of these systems are prohibitively expensive
As a result, they are mostly employed in situations where high-quality treatment is required in a small area or with poor soils. A growing number of them are being built on beachfront sites. More information about Anaerobic Treatment Systems may be found here.

Systems that employ aerobic processes to treat wastewater are commonly found underground in the form of a multi-chamber concrete tank with many chambers. Aeration, purification, and pumping of the effluent are performed in four chambers in the most complicated systems. Essentially, the first chamber serves as a miniature replica of the regular septic tank. To continuously inject air into the effluent in the second “treatment” tank, an air pump is utilized. The presence of air encourages the growth of aerobic bacteria, which are more efficient at processing sewage than the anaerobic bacteria found in a normal septic system, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. For additional clarity and pumping out of the cleaned water, third and fourth chambers are employed in some systems. A synthetic media filter is frequently used in so-called “fixed-film” systems to improve the bacterial process. In the correct hands, aerobic systems may create better-quality wastewater than a typical system, and they may even incorporate an additional disinfection before the purified wastewater is discharged. A smaller drain field may be used in urban areas whereas a larger area may be sprayed in rural areas. Mini sewage treatment plants (rather than septic systems) are technically what these are, as they are dependent mostly on anaerobic treatment rather than aerobic treatment. The acronym ATU is commonly used to refer to them (aerobic treatment units). Installation and maintenance of these systems are prohibitively expensive
As a result, they are typically employed in situations where high-quality treatment is required in a small area or with poor soils. A growing number of them are being built on beachfront property. Find out more about Aerobic Treatment Systems by visiting their website.

Wetlands that have been constructed. These are suitable for those who are environmentally conscious and wish to take an active role in the recycling of their wastewater. They may be used in practically any type of soil. An artificial shallow pond is used in the system, which is lined with rock, tire chippings, or other suitable medium and then filled with water. A pleasant atmosphere is created by the media, which serves as a habitat for particular plants that process wastewater and maintain the ecosystem. Wastewater from the septic tank is dispersed across the media bed through a perforated conduit, where plant roots, bacteria, and other microorganisms break down the contaminants in the water. The treated water is collected in a second pipe located at the back of the marsh. Household members must budget time for planting, pruning, and weeding in the wetlands area.

Additional resources: National Small Flows Clearinghouse Inspectapedia.com You may also be interested in:Who Should I Hire For Perc Test? Whether or not alternative septic systems are permitted. Is It Possible for Septic Systems to Last a Lifetime? How Much Slope Do You Need for a Septic Line? Performing an Inspection on a Septic System When Is the Best Time to Take a Perc Test? Should I use a Sand Filter with my existing septic system? Examination of the WellSEPTIC SYSTEMView allSEPTIC SYSTEMarticles Return to the top of the page