The drain field is a crucial element of your septic system. If this field is not built correctly, or you encounter an issue with the pipes, you will have a potentially hazardous situation on your hands. There are multiple options for drain fields to fit the needs of any yard and septic system design. Let’s take a look at those styles so you know what options you have.
Conventional Drain Field Design
The professional you work with on designing and installing your drain field will be able to help determine what type of field your land can sustain. Most people have ground suitable for a conventional drain field design. This type of design consists of a rectangular trench that is then surrounded by pipes and gravel. The liquid from your system (aka effluent) travels through the pipes and out of your field via gravity. This system is built entirely underground.
Mound Systems Or Elevated Seepage Bed Systems
As mentioned before, not every yard has soil conditions that allow for a traditional style of drain field installation. If your yard has exceptionally hard soil, or a drain field would come too close to a source of groundwater, a mound system becomes the wiser choice. In this style of system, a mound is built in your yard. Any effluent is pumped to the mound, where gravity then directs it down through a pipe. If you are concerned about the aesthetics of this system, there are methods you can use to camouflage it.
Dry Well Drain Field Systems
A dry well drain field is a variation of the classic drain field design. The drain field is still a rectangular shape. But instead of pipes and gravel, this field uses large pits that are filled with crushed rocks or gravel. These systems are viewed as just as durable as other septic systems, including the classic drain field. However, there are questions about how well this system can filter wastewater. Just like a traditional drain field, this style is built underground.
Chamber Septic Systems
This is a newer style of drain field that has entered the market. In this style, all fluids make their way to a plastic container. From this container, the fluids then drain into the ground. This style eliminates the use of the gravel bed seen in the other types of drain fields. These are cost-effective options in areas where they are permitted. They do come with a shorter warranty than other systems and require more monitoring. This system is built underground.
Recognizing Issues With Your Drain Field
While drain fields are excellent structures, they will encounter issues over time. They can get overloaded with fluid, pipes can get clogged, or the field can fail due to age. Hire a reputable professional to service your system regularly so you can get ahead of issues before they happen.
Invest In Quality And Professional Service With All Septic & Sewer
The owners of All Septic & Sewer have countless years in the business. We are knowledgeable about the issues that can arise with septic tanks and drain fields. Contact us today for a consultation, and we will create a plan that fits your needs. Follow us on Facebook to keep up with the latest!