If your home relies on a septic system for waste management, you know that these plumbing and filtration networks can be sensitive. However, if you have a bit of background information on your particular system, you’ll be able to thwart potential threats and call for professional help before it’s too late. That’s why American On Site of Molalla, OR, is dedicated to educating their clients on industry basics. Here, they elaborate on three septic systems you may have.

3 Types of Septic Systems 

1. Conventional Gravel System

The most common septic systems rely on gravity for filtration in a gravel-filled drain field. These systems are usually built one to three feet underground, but this can be affected by the expected waste flow and soil type. After the gravel is poured, it is covered by a filter-like fabric to keep soil from making it through. It is in this component of the septic system that the majority of waste treatment occurs—when waste from the tank filters through the drain field. Over time, the resulting organic material sustains worms and other parasites, serving as a foundation for the local ecosystem.

2. Low-Pressure Dose System

These septic systems work well in areas with uneven terrain, where a conventional gravitational system would not function. In a low-pressure dose system, a pumping chamber is installed next to the septic tank. This pump pushes waster water from the tank into the pumping chamber and on to the drain field twice a day. Once it reaches this final location, the waste filters through perforated pipes that sit over a gravel system.

3. Aerobic Septic Systems

These systems are suitable for almost any environment, but they are notably complex. In fact, aerobic septic systems function a lot like municipal plants. While conventional systems rely on gravity, these pump oxygen into tanks to boost the bacterial breakdown process. Some even feature multiple tanks, the last of which is filled with un-stabilized chlorine. From there, the clean water is sent out through sprinklers over an absorption field. 

No matter which type of septic system you have or hope to own, American On Site will be happy to install and maintain it for you. This business has spent more than 15 years providing reliable septic and plumbing services, from tank installations to drain cleaning. For more information, call them at (503) 829-7600 or visit their website.