Low Pressure System

Components of a Low Pressure System.
A Low Pressure System consists of the following: 1. Septic tank 2. Pump tank 3. Submersible effluent pump 4. High water alarm 5. Supply line 6. Manifold 7. Lateral lines

How does a Low Pressure System function?

Water enters into the septic tank where the breakdown of solids occur. The breakdown causes the sewage to separate into three layers with the septic tank. The bottom layer consists of large solids or sludge which is slowly digested by bacteria. The middle layer consists of relatively clear water containing minute particles. The upper layer consists of floating solids or scum. The middle layer or clear zone is discharged to the pump tank. When the septic tank effluent rises to the level of the pump control in the pumping tank, the pump turns on and effluent moves through the supply line and distribution laterals. The laterals contain small holes, (5/32 - 1/4 inches) and are placed three to eight feet apart. From the trenches, the effluent moves into the soil where it is treated. The pump turns off when the effluent level falls to the lower control. The dosing takes place two to four times per day, depending on the input of sewage from the structure. If a pump malfunction should occur, the alarm would alert the homeowner of failure.

The Low Pressure system is a specially engineered system that disburses the effluent to the lateral lines in specific rates. Repairs to this type of system should be performed only by trained technicians. Special requirements to insure that the specific ration of pressure is always maintained.

Restrictions / Disadvantages:

Some Low Pressure pipe systems may gradually accumulate solids at the ends of the lateral lines, therefore, requiring maintenance. Electrical components for operation of the pump are required. Design and installation can be very difficult.

Advantages:

A Low Pressure System can be space conservative compared to a conventional rock lateral system and can be utilized on irregular lot shapes and sizes. This system can be installed at a shallower depth and requires less top soil cover. A Low Pressure System provides alternating dosing and resting cycles.

Mound System

A Mound System is a soil absorption system that is elevated above the natural soil surface in suitable soil material.

The system basically consists of:

1. a suitable fill material (match head size sand)
2. an absorption area
3. a distribution network
4. a cap
5. top soil

After initial treatment in the septic tank , where the heavy solids in the liquid settle and greases float to the top of the septic tank and bacteria break down occurs, the effluent is pumped or siphoned into the absorption area through a distribution network located in the upper part of coarse soil. The effluent water passes through the soil and infiltrates the fill material. Treatment of the wastewater occurs as it passes through the fill material and the unsaturated zone of the natural soil. The cap provides frost protection, sheds precipitation and retains moisture for good vegetative cover.

Restrictions / Requirements:
Property sites must be relatively level or have slight slopes for proper installation. Regular inspection of the pumps and controls and flushing of the distribution network are needed. This system may prove costly compared to other alternatives and additionally difficult to design.

Advantages:
The Mound System extends onsite system usage in areas with high groundwater, high bedrock, or tighter clay soils. It can also be space efficient compared to a conventional rock lateral system.

Other Topics:
Alternative Household Cleaning Solutions | Caring For Your Septic System - Do's & Don'ts | Check List for Evaluating Your Septic System | Common Onsite Regulations | Corrective Action For A Failing Septic System | Curtain Drain, Washer lines and Filters | Engineering and Design for Difficult Sites | Fill & Wait - Why? What? How? | Health Departments - Friends or Foe? | Improve Your System Practice Water Conservation | Landscaping for Mound Systems | Mound Systems - Maintenance a Must | Septic Tank Additives Danger in Disguise | Ten Most Asked Questions About Septic Systems | Why Systems Fail | Sewage Protection Program

Barrow Company specializes in the engineering and design of all types of systems. If you would like additional information on these or any other system, please use the Contact Us section on this website, e-mail us at info@barrowcompany.com or contact us by telephone or fax. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday