Table of Contents
How much space do you need for a mound septic system?
Unlike conventional systems the mound system will require two separate tanks. The first will be a standard septic tank buried at a depth of 10 to 16 inches and located a minimum of 10 feet from the foundation of the house. Both tanks need to be level and square.
Does a mound system have a drain field?
The mound is a drainfield that is raised above the natural soil surface in a specific sand fill material. Within the sand fill is a gravel-filled bed with a network of small diameter pipes. Septic tank effluent is pumped through the pipes in controlled doses to insure uniform distribution throughout the bed.
What do I need to know about mound septic system?
A mound septic system is an alternative to other septic tank systems. It rests near the top of the ground and does not use a container for the waste. This type of septic system disposes the waste through sand, and the ground will absorb the waste. The mound septic system has many good points and bad points.
Can you walk on a mound septic?
Low-maintenance perennial plants that minimize the need to walk on the mound are ideal. Walking compacts the soil and may interfere with the evaporation of effluents. Do as little digging as possible when planting to avoid disturbing the mound and be sure to wear gloves to minimize your physical contact with the soil.
Should you mow a septic mound?
To prevent compaction, do not allow any vehicles or heavy equipment on the mound. When mowing the lawn, use a hand mower, rather than a riding mower. This will also help protect the mound from losing soil to erosion. The slope of the mound makes it more susceptible to erosion than a conventional drain field.
How is a mound system constructed?
Mound Systems The constructed sand mound contains a drainfield trench. Effluent from the septic tank flows to a pump chamber where it is pumped to the mound in prescribed doses. Treatment of the effluent occurs as it discharges to the trench and filters through the sand, and then disperses into the native soil.
Do mound septic systems smell?
The soil treatment area, or leach field, consists of an in-ground drain bed, field, or mound, and there should not be a strong septic odor unless there’s a problem.
What is a turkey mound?
A sand mound, or turkey mound, is one of the common alternatives to septic drain fields in the Pike County, PA region. The turkey mound, an elevated sand mound, is a better choice for individuals who cannot risk a traditional drain or leach field due to either higher water tables in the region.
How do you hide a mound septic system?
3 Ways To Hide Your Mound Septic Systems With Landscaping Design Herb Gardens On And Around Your Septic Mound. Herb gardens can be planted on mounds to hide them. Retaining Walls To Build Up The Location Of Your Mound. Create A Rock Garden To Hide The Mound Of Your Septic System.
What does a sand mound cost?
Mound septic systems are considerably more expensive than conventional septics because they require more sophisticated construction. The cost of the electric pump and sand also contributes to the total price. Mound septic systems have an average cost between $10,000 and $20,000.
What can you plant in a septic mound?
Native grasses and wildflowers are the most-recommended options for disguising a septic mound. Plants that are shallow-rooted and thrive in dry conditions are best because they won’t grow deep into the mound to seek out water. These plants also tend to be low maintenance, keeping foot traffic to a minimum on the mound.
Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?
The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.
Can you pour concrete over drain field?
Paving Over Your Septic Tank You should never pave over your septic tank. Although soil compaction is not a major issue for septic tanks, there are other dangers presented by placing an insecure septic tank underneath concrete and heavy vehicles.
Can I plant wildflowers on a septic mound?
Yes, you can certainly plant wildflowers over your septic system leach field area.
How long will a sand mound septic system last?
Mounds and septic systems designed and installed prior to the year 2000 AVERAGE 20 to 25 years of useful life prior to failing and needing to be replaced. Many systems fail sooner than 20 years, and many last well beyond 25 years, the AVERAGE is 20 to 25 years.
How do you take care of a mound system?
Proper Care Includes: Checking the pump chamber, pump and floats every year and replacing or repairing worn or broken parts. Installing a septic tank effluent filter or pump screen, if your system does not have one. Taking action to protect the mound from overloading after a prolonged power outage or pump failure.
