If you’re planning a septic installation on a residential or commercial property, you might be eager to break away from the municipal sewer and start using your own waste management system. However, plenty of planning goes into the excavation and construction processes, and not just involving the tank. The latter part of a septic system—the drain field—relies significantly on the natural landscape it’s built within. To ensure your entire system functions properly, consider the factors when positioning this section.

3 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Drain Field Location

1. Soil Type

When planning your septic installation, it’s important to remember the function of a drain field. This is the portion of your waste management system that will let water seep through the soil, and capture leftover waste. For the best results, your drain field should be placed in dry ground. Soil that’s too moist and wet will be compacted, making it harder for water to flow through. Soil with too much clay will taint the water, and gravelly soil will let water pass through too quickly.

2. Size

Next, think about the size of your household and the average use of your plumbing system. The actual size of your drain field must match the capacity of your septic tank, which is decided by the amount of waste your home produces. If your contractor decides you need a larger system, you’ll have to reserve a significant chunk of your yard for the drain field, one that won’t be built or parked on top of.

3. Terrain

Finally, assess the topography of your backyard—if there are any hills or steep slopes, you’ll have to disregard these areas in your placement decision. Drain fields are best to build on high, level ground, as steep slopes will dramatically accelerate drainage, preventing the proper filtering process. High ground is preferred so that excessive rainfall doesn’t pool on top your drain field and oversaturate the area.

If you’re looking to schedule a septic installation for your property get in touch with Beckham Septic Tanks and Ditching Service of Enterprise, AL. For over 65 years, this family-owned company has served a variety of customers in the Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Houston, and Pike counties, from farmers to utility companies. To learn more about their septic installation skills, visit the website, or call (334) 347-2362 to make an appointment.