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Types of Septic Fields

Septic fields are primarily used in the removal of contaminants and impurities present in septic tank liquids. Often, these devices are composed of perforated pipes that are buried in trenches. Septic fields allow dirty and contaminated liquid to leak out from the septic tank into the surrounding soil, where it is absorbed. Septic fields, septic tanks and all the piping involved are collectively called the septic system. The septic system is classified into two main types: conventional and alternative. Both types of septic systems are further divided into different subtypes.

  1. Gravity System

    • Gravity system is the standard or basic type of septic system. Classified under the conventional type of septic field, this type makes use of gravity to drain wastewater from the septic tank into the trenches or drain field. To make this system achieve best results, the trenches must be placed strategically below the septic tank.

    Pressure Distribution System

    • Another type of conventional septic system is pressure distribution. It is the main method employed in this type of septic field. It uses a pump to distribute wastewater evenly throughout the different drain fields at approximately the same time. This type of septic system uses all present drainage fields and is often used when utilization of gravity-based systems is not practical.

    Aerobic Treatment Unit

    • The aerobic treatment unit is one of the alternative types of septic systems. Oxygen is the main proponent of this type. Typically, septic systems of this type have watertight tanks that come with aeration chambers. It is in this chamber that oxygen breaks down the solids, thereby producing cleaner wastewater. Often, this type of septic system is used in areas that are environmentally sensitive.

    Sand Filter

    • This is among the most commonly used types of septic systems. It employs a pump and a sand filtering system. The sand is often placed in between the pump and the drain fields. Wastewater is filtered by the sand before it is able to enter the drainage fields. This type of septic system is often used when there is less soil that may be able to treat waste water.

    Mound System

    • The mound system is another alternative type of septic system. Like the sand filter system, it is often used when there is a lack of soil to treat waste water. In this type of septic system, a mound filled with sand is usually placed over the shallow soil just above the drainage fields. The mound of sand serves as a filter and treats wastewater as it travels from the tank into the drainage fields.

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