For many of us we don’t think about our septic system often, and when we do we don’t think about the different types of septic systems. Heck, if you live in a location that uses a public sewer you might not know what a septic system is. The fact is, if your home has a private septic system you should know what type of system it is and how it works. To help with that we’re going to break down a list of the 5 most common septic systems in Missouri.
City Sewer
The first septic system isn’t a septic system at all - well not technically. Rather than wastewater being treated onsite like a septic system, a sewer system takes the wastewater miles down the road to a sewer treatment plant. From there it is cleaned, helping keep contaminants out of the groundwater. Sewer systems are provided by municipalities, but because of this not every location will have access to the service.
Conventional Septic System
A conventional septic system is typically installed at homes or small businesses that do not have access to a sewer system. This system consists of a septic tank and a wastewater filtration system. Also known as a drain field. With the help of gravity, wastewater is carried to the septic tanks, naturally broken down and filtered. The remaining grey water is then carried once more by gravity to the drain field where it’s broken down further before being safely distributed back into the ground.
Low Pressure Pipe System
A low pressure pipe (LLP) system is similar to a conventional septic system. The wastewater travels to your septic tank, but instead of using gravity to carry the grey water to a drain field, it uses it to carry it to a pumping chamber. Once the pumping chamber reaches a certain level it triggers a pump to turn on. The effluent is then pumped to the distribution laterals under low pressure. A low pressure pipe system (LLP) can help eliminate soil clogging that is sometimes associated with conventional septic systems.
Drip Distribution System
A drip distribution system can be used with many different drain fields. The benefit to this system is that a large mound of soil is not needed because the lateral lines are only below 6 to 12 inches of soil. However it does require a larger dose tank to allow it to deliver the wastewater to the absorption area in a timely fashion. In addition to that they require electrical power.
Recirculating Sand Filter System
Recirculating sand filter systems are unique as they can be constructed above or below the ground. Once the grey water, or effluent flows from the septic tank to the pump chamber it is then pumped to the sand filter. The effluent is filtered through the sand allowing it to be properly treated. After treatment it is then moved to the drain field. This type of system is especially helpful with areas that have high water tables, or that are close to water bodies.
So there you have it - the 5 most common septic systems in Missouri. Live in Camben County and not sure what kind of septic system you have or when the last time it was pumped? Give First Choice Septic Pumping a call at 573-280-5052.
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