SEPTIC SYSTEM OPTIONS

SUBSURFACE SEEPAGE FIELD:  Waste flows into the septic tank, the solids settle out, and effluent flows through pipes into trenches of gravel.  The purified liquid is absorbed into the ground.

        Advantages:         Low initial costs, no mechanical parts, no chlorination needed.

        Disadvantages:    If the ground will not absorb water, this system will not work.  Field may require up

                                     to a 40' by 100' area.

BURIED SAND FILTER:    Waste flows into the septic tank, the solids settle out and effluent flows through pipes and filters down through 24" of sand (or other filter media).  The purified liquid is picked up by lines on the bottom, runs through a chlorinator and discharges to the surface.

        Advantages:        No mechanical parts.  Requires less area than a seepage field.  Can be used in areas where

                                    soil types will not absorb water.

        Disadvantages:    If the filter media clogs, removal and replacement would be expensive.  The filter alone may require

                                    up to a 20' by 40' area.  There is a drop of 48" from tank inlet to the discharge line. A lift pump

                                    must be used in many situations.

NORWECO SINGULAIR AERATION UNIT:    Waste flows into a concrete tank, and large solids settle in the first compartment.  Waste water flows into the second compartment, and goes through a mixing and air injection process that accelerates the digestion of waste by aerobic bacteria.  The water then flows into a third compartment encouraging the settling of any remaining sediment.  The water flows through the Bio-Kinetic filter and may be chlorinated.

        Advantages:        The motor is on a timer (runs for 30 minutes and is off for 30 minutes), reducing electrical costs.

                                    The Bio-Kinetic filter equalizes flow to handle water surges.  Less elevation is required for

                                    installation.  Service is performed by qualified technicians.  One tank does

                                    it all:  no secondary filter or treatment is needed.

        Disadvantages:    Requires periodic service.  Adds to monthly electric usage.

Tips for septic system care