Embarking on the journey to build your dream home in a rural setting can be thrilling, but the reality of soil and perc testing often brings unforeseen challenges. While a failed perc test might seem like a setback, the world of alternative septic systems offers a myriad of positive solutions to turn obstacles into opportunities.
The Mound System:
One such alternative is the mound system, designed with a layer of gravel on top of sand to ensure efficient drainage. What sets this system apart is the inclusion of a dosing chamber, equipped with a pump and float system. This chamber, also known as a pump chamber, efficiently collects and distributes wastewater from the septic tank. An alarm system ensures timely alerts in case of pump failure or rising water levels in the tank.
Diverse Alternative Septic Systems: The realm of alternative septic systems extends beyond the mound, with a wide array of options tailored to different needs and site conditions. Let’s explore some of these innovative solutions:
- Pressurized Dosing:
- Uses a holding tank and pump for controlled effluent distribution.
- Ideal for rehabilitating leach fields or combining with other systems like mounds, sand filters, plastic leach fields, or drip irrigation.
- Plastic Chamber Leach Field:
- A standard septic system with an alternative leach field.
- Suited for smaller building sites, eliminating the need for gravel in favor of plastic chambers.
- Sand Filter:
- A large sand-filled box with a watertight liner for effluent pre-treatment.
- Requires careful engineering and maintenance to prevent sand clogging.
- May include recirculation of effluent for further treatment.
- Aerobic Treatment System:
- Utilizes an aerobic process in an underground multi-chamber concrete tank.
- Supports aerobic bacteria for more efficient sewage processing.
- Considered mini sewage-treatment plants, suitable for areas with high-quality treatment needs.
- Drip Distribution/Irrigation:
- Uses a pump and filtering device to distribute effluent through shallow drip tubes.
- Ideal for areas with shallow soils, clays, or steep slopes.
- Requires extra monitoring and maintenance due to tube proximity to the surface.
- Constructed Wetlands:
- An ecologically-minded option for wastewater recycling.
- Utilizes a man-made pond filled with media to host plants that treat wastewater.
- Requires homeowner involvement in planting, trimming, and weeding.
While a failed perc test may initially feel like a roadblock, the diverse world of alternative septic systems opens up possibilities for building your dream home on challenging terrain. From pressurized dosing to constructed wetlands, these solutions cater to various needs and environmental considerations. Embrace the opportunity to explore innovative options and consult with experts to find the perfect fit for your unique property. After all, turning challenges into opportunities is the essence of building a dream home in harmony with the land.