An onsite septic system removes contaminants from wastewater using natural processes, including soil filtration and bacterial activity. While most septic installations use the same principles, there are different types of equipment professionals might install. The right system for your site depends on various factors, including soil depth and water table height. If you’re building a house or a new commercial development, below are a few options to consider.

What Septic Systems Can You Have Installed?

1. Standard Gravity

The majority of septic systems rely on gravity to move wastewater into tanks and drainfields. In these designs, drainfields consist of pipes in underground trenches filled with gravel or loose stone. Each channel should be surrounded by several feet of soil, so these models are only viable in areas with deep bedrock and low water tables to prevent groundwater contamination.

2. Pressure Distribution

When properties don’t have sufficient soil to accommodate standard gravity equipment, septic contractors often recommend pressure distribution systems. These designs feature pumps or siphons that pull water from tanks to push into the filtering pipes. These drainfields are more extensive, however, so installation requires larger plots of land.

3. Advanced Treatment

Sometimes, soil conditions are too shallow for the above options. In these cases, professionals install advanced treatment systems, which only require 1 foot of dirt. These varieties filter wastewater before dispersing liquids through drainfields. Some of these systems are equipped with underground boxes of sand that filter effluent, while others use specially designed textiles or additives that stimulate bacterial activity.

If you’re building a new home or commercial facility in New York’s Hudson Valley, Black Rock Excavating Corp offers the septic installation and design expertise you need. Their experienced contractors have over 15 years of experience working with a wide range of technologies and designs. Visit their website for more on their septic installation services, follow their Facebook for updates, or call (845) 649-1882 to request a quote.