Design and Components

Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) are designed to increase the bacterial activity in the treatment tank by injecting oxygen. They consist of multiple chambers, including a pretreatment chamber, an aeration chamber, and a clarification chamber. These chambers work together to provide enhanced treatment and reduce the amount of solids in the effluent.

How they work

ATUs work by introducing oxygen into the treatment tank, which promotes the growth of aerobic bacteria. These bacteria break down organic matter more efficiently than the anaerobic bacteria found in conventional septic systems. The treated effluent is then discharged to a drainfield or a disinfection unit before being released into the environment.

Pros and cons

One of the significant advantages of ATUs is their ability to provide superior treatment compared to conventional systems. They can reduce the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in the effluent, making them suitable for sites with strict water quality requirements or sensitive ecosystems. However, they may have higher energy consumption and maintenance requirements compared to conventional systems.

Cost to purchase and maintain

The cost of purchasing and installing an ATU will vary depending on factors such as system size, technology, and labor costs, but is more expensive than other systems. Maintenance costs may also be higher due to the need for regular inspection, monitoring, and potential replacement of components.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction Industries, LLC for more information.

Source: aboutseptictanks.com

Design and Components

Drip distribution systems are designed to disperse effluent into the top few inches of soil using drip laterals. These systems utilize a network of small pipes with evenly spaced emitters that deliver wastewater directly to the soil, promoting even distribution and treatment.

How they work

Drip distribution systems work by transporting effluent from the septic tank to a distribution box. From the distribution box, the effluent is then delivered to the drip laterals, which distribute the wastewater evenly throughout the designated area. The effluent is applied at a slow and controlled rate, allowing for better treatment and absorption by the soil.

Pros and cons

Drip distribution systems offer several advantages, including efficient and uniform distribution of effluent, reduced risk of system failure due to clogging, and the ability to handle high wastewater flows. However, they may have higher installation costs compared to conventional systems and may require more specialized maintenance.

Cost to purchase and maintain

The cost of purchasing and installing a drip distribution system can vary depending on factors such as the size of the system, the number of drip laterals, soil conditions, and labor costs. Maintenance costs may be higher compared to conventional systems, as the drip laterals may need periodic flushing or replacement.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: aboutseptictanks.com

Design and Components

Chamber systems are an alternative to traditional gravel or stone drainfields. Instead of using traditional gravel, chamber systems utilize interconnected chambers that are filled with soil. These chambers provide a larger surface area for wastewater to infiltrate the soil and promote better treatment.

How they work

Chamber systems work similarly to conventional septic systems, with wastewater flowing from the home into a septic tank. From the tank, the wastewater is then distributed to the chamber system. The chambers provide additional contact between the effluent and the soil, allowing for better treatment and absorption.

Pros and cons

One of the major advantages of chamber systems is their ease of installation. They require fewer materials and less excavation compared to traditional drainfields. They are also more resistant to clogging, as the chambers have self-cleaning features. However, chamber systems may be more expensive to purchase and maintain than conventional systems.

Cost to purchase and maintain

The cost of purchasing and installing a chamber system will vary depending on factors such as chamber size, soil conditions, and labor costs. Maintenance costs are similar to conventional systems, with regular septic tank pumping recommended every 3-5 years.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: aboutseptictanks.com

If you are about to purchase a new home with a septic system, the homebuyer's brochure and guide are for you.

These documents provide information homebuyers need to know before purchasing a home with a septic system, how a septic system works, and the importance of having it inspected prior to purchasing a home. The documents also provide information on everyday, preventative, and corrective maintenance for when you are living in your new home.

For more information, contact  Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: epa.gov

Design and Components

The most common type of septic system is the conventional septic system, which consists of two main components: a septic tank and a drainfield. The septic tank is a buried, watertight container that holds the wastewater from your home. The tank separates solids from liquids, allowing the solids to settle to the bottom and the liquids to flow into the drainfield. The drainfield, also known as a leach field, is a shallow, underground system of perforated pipes that distribute the treated wastewater into the soil.

How they work

Conventional septic systems work by allowing gravity to transport wastewater from the home into the septic tank. The solids settle to the bottom of the tank, forming a layer of sludge, while the liquids pass into the drainfield. In the drainfield, the wastewater is further treated as it percolates through the soil, where beneficial bacteria and natural processes remove contaminants before the water reaches groundwater sources.

Pros and cons

Conventional septic systems have several advantages. They are simple in design, reliable, and can be cost-effective compared to other types of systems. They also have a long lifespan if properly maintained. However, they may not be suitable for all sites, particularly those with shallow soil, high groundwater levels, or steep slopes. In these cases, alternative septic systems may be necessary.

Cost to purchase and maintain

The cost of purchasing and installing a conventional septic system will vary depending on factors such as tank size, drainfield size, local labor costs, and permits. Maintenance costs are relatively low, consisting mainly of regular pumping of the septic tank every 3-5 years.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: aboutseptictanks.com

Most septic system problems are a result of poor initial design, misuse, or physical damage, such as driving heavy vehicles over the leach field. Common conditions that can cause a septic system to perform poorly include:

• House plumbing: clogged or inadequate plumbing vents, blockage between the house and septic tank, or inadequate pitch in sewer pipe from house
• Septic tank to leach field: Blockage between the septic tank and leach field caused by a plugged or broken tank outlet, or a plugged line to the leach field cause by tree roots, or by solids that overflowed from the tank
• Leach field piping: Driving or parking heavy vehicles over the leach field can break the perforated leach pipe, especially if it is not uniformly supported by the gravel bed. Usually tree roots do not penetrate through the gravel bed into the perforated piping.
• Leach field sizing: Drain field may be too small for current flow levels out of the home. Reducing flows though use of flow restricters, and low-flow faucets and fixtures might help.
• High water table: A seasonal high water table can saturate the soil around the trenches impairing the soil’s ability to absorb wastewater. This is sometimes an issue on relatively flat building sites with poor surface drainage. This can often be fixed by installing subsurface drains or curtain drains to intercept the water flow toward the leach field area and to lower the water table locally.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction Industries for more information.

Source: buildingadvisor.com

Plastic Septic Tanks

The Advantages: There are many advantages to using a plastic septic tank over a concrete septic tank, which include, but are not limited to:

• Plastic septic tanks are very resistant to cracking, unlike concrete.
• Rusting is a non-issue.
• As plastic weighs less than concrete, it is much easier to get a plastic septic tank into the location for installation.
• A plastic septic tank is more cost-effective than a concrete septic tank.

Plastic septic tanks can be water-tight and corrosion proof.

The Disadvantages: There are many advantages to using a plastic septic tank over a concrete septic tank, which include, but are not limited to:

• Plastic septic tanks tend to have lower effluent levels, which may be discovered after a tank is opened for pumping.
• If not installed properly, a plastic septic tank can "float" to the surface of the ground.
• Because plastic is such a light-weight material, it can be damaged at installation.
• Plastic septic tanks are not approved in all states.

When is a plastic septic tank appropriate? Plastic septic tanks can be the right choice when they are permissible in your state and when cost is a significant consideration. In the end, you must decide if a plastic septic tank is best for your project.

Concrete Septic Tanks

The Advantages:

• Concrete septic tanks have higher effluent levels than plastic septic tanks.
• Because concrete septic tanks are heavy, there is no chance of floating, unlike plastic septic tanks.
• Concrete septic tanks are long lasting and extremely durable.
• These septic tanks are approved in all states.

The Disadvantages:

• Concrete septic tanks are very expensive.
• These septic tanks can crack under extreme circumstances.
• Because concrete is heavy, it is very difficult to install.
• Though concrete septic tanks are very durable, they can crack and are more susceptible to leaks.

When is a concrete septic tank appropriate? When concrete is mandated by zoning codes, concrete septic tanks are appropriate. Additionally, septic professionals choose concrete when value is a more important consideration than cost.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: septic.com

About 30% of all homes in Massachusetts depend on privately owned septic systems to take care of sewage disposal. Various governmental regulations are in place to guide the consumer through every step of the process in owning a septic system.

Regulation of Septic Tank Systems

Local Massachusetts Board of Healths are the authority in charge of regulating the septic tank systems. Title 5 of the State Environmental Code contains guidelines for the positioning, construction, and maintenance of sewage systems. MassDEP or Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection is in charge of processing application approvals, and is also responsible for implementing Title 5 regulations.

Licensure Requirements for Septic System Contractors

From 2004 onwards, the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission has been in charge of the Massachusetts Title 5 Onsite Wastewater Training and the Certification of Soil Evaluators and System Inspectors. Soil Evaluator training entails 3 days of classes plus 3 days of fieldwork and a combined written and field test. The System Inspectors have to undergo a 1-day class and a written exam. Both categories have to renew their licenses every 3 years.

Installing a New Septic System

To install a new septic system or repair an existing one, consumers need to apply for permission to the Board of Health. They have to get the relevant DEP approved application forms from the local Board of Health for the purpose. Applications are necessary for permission to construct, and approval for onsite construction. An onsite soil test and a percolation test have to be conducted by authorized personnel. After construction or repair, a Certificate of Compliance will be issued by the Board of Health.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: septic.com

Most septic system problems are a result of poor initial design, misuse, or physical damage, such as driving heavy vehicles over the leach field. Common conditions that can cause a septic system to perform poorly include:

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction

Source: buildingadvisor.com

What should I expect in a typical septic system inspection?

Septic system inspections are a vital step in making sure your system is operating properly. Regular inspections ensure you and your family do not get sick due to a leak or other problems with your septic system. Since these wastewater systems are located underground, homeowners may overlook having a septic inspection. Routine inspections help prevent expensive repairs to your system or avoid a sewage backup in your home. In many states, a septic system must be inspected with the transfer of real estate. However, it is not only when you are buying a home that these inspections are needed. Septic system inspections should be done every 1 to 3 years for as long as you own your home.

In general, an inspection will involve the following:

Review of the system permit, design, and installation records (including system age)

Review of the septic tank pumping and system maintenance records

Opening and inspecting all tanks (septic tank, pump tank, distribution box)

Evaluating the septic tank sludge and scum levels and determining the need to pump

Assessing the condition of the septic tank effluent filter (if installed)

Looking for signs of leakage, such as low water levels in the tank

Looking for signs of backup, such as staining in the tank above the outlet pipe

Evaluating the integrity of the tank, inlet and outlet pipes and looking for signs of corrosion

Verifying all electrical connections, pumps, controls, and wiring are intact

Possibly using a camera to look at solid pipes and leach lines for blockages or collapsed piping

Evaluating the drainfield for signs of system failure, such as standing water (surfacing) or unequal drainage

Possibly excavating parts of the drainfield to look for signs of ponding in the system or groundwater impacting the drainfield

Examining the distribution box for structural integrity and to make sure drain lines are receiving equal flow

Reviewing other available records on water use and required inspections, monitoring, and reporting to ensure system compliance with local regulations regarding function and permit conditions.

Contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: EPA.gov