When choosing a septic system, it’s essential to understand the different types available, each with unique benefits and limitations. Whether building a new property or upgrading an existing one, knowing which system best fits your needs can save time, resources, and hassle in the long run.
Below, we break down the main types of septic systems, covering their pros, cons, and costs.
Conventional Gravity Septic System
A traditional option for many properties, the conventional gravity septic system uses gravity to move wastewater from the tank to the drain field.
Pros: Simple design with fewer moving parts, making it easy to install and maintain. It’s also cost-effective for properties with suitable soil conditions.
Cons: Not ideal for areas with high groundwater levels or poor soil drainage, which can affect system efficiency.
Costs: Installation ranges between $3,000 and $7,000, depending on soil conditions and tank size.
Chamber Septic System
Chamber systems are popular for properties in locations with fluctuating water tables. These systems use a series of interconnected plastic chambers instead of gravel in the drain field, allowing wastewater to filter efficiently.
Pros: Suitable for areas with limited space and offers flexibility in installation with no need for gravel.
Cons: The chambers can clog faster than other systems, potentially requiring more frequent maintenance.
Costs: Typically costs between $4,000 and $10,000, depending on the size of the property and the layout required.
Mound Septic System
Ideal for properties with shallow soil or high groundwater, mound systems elevate the drain field to create a buffer between the wastewater and groundwater below.
Pros: Effective for challenging sites with poor soil or high water tables, offering a solution when other systems may fail.
Cons: Requires a larger area for installation, and the raised mound can impact property aesthetics.
Costs: Installation generally costs between $10,000 and $20,000 due to the required materials and labor.
Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU)
Aerobic systems treat wastewater similarly to a municipal sewage plant by introducing oxygen into the process. This method allows for cleaner, more efficient wastewater treatment.
Pros: It is ideal for environmentally sensitive areas and properties with strict discharge regulations. It produces cleaner effluent, which can be safer for the environment.
Cons: Requires electricity to operate, making it less energy-efficient. Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal function.
Costs: Installation costs range from $10,000 to $20,000, and maintenance costs are generally higher than conventional systems.
Recirculating Sand Filter System
This system uses a sand bed to filter wastewater, offering additional treatment before discharging it to the drain field. It’s an excellent choice for properties with poor soil.
Pros: Effective in filtering contaminants, which can reduce the environmental impact. Ideal for areas with strict environmental regulations.
Cons: Requires more space than a conventional system and can be costly to maintain.
Costs: Installation costs typically range from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of the sand filter and the property’s layout.
Drip Distribution System
This type of system distributes wastewater into the soil in small, regulated doses, allowing it to be treated efficiently as it moves through the soil.
Pros: Useful for properties with limited space and works well in areas with shallow soil. Allows precise control of wastewater distribution.
Cons: Requires electricity and a well-designed control panel, making it more complex than conventional systems.
Costs: Installation can range from $8,000 to $15,000, with maintenance fees due to its complexity.
Choosing the Right Septic System
Selecting the appropriate septic system depends on soil type, property size, local regulations, and budget. While conventional systems are cost-effective and easy to install, alternative systems like the ATU or sand filter may be necessary in environmentally sensitive areas or properties with unique site constraints.
Here at All Septic & Sewer, we offer reliable residential and commercial septic solutions across Pierce, King, and Thurston Counties. As a veteran-owned company committed to quality and local expertise, we’re ready to help. Contact our septic system experts today to discuss your needs.