Alternative septic systems are more sophisticated than traditional disposal ones.
They provide a solution for locations where a conventional structure is not applicable – e.g., places with high groundwater, rocky base, or insufficient soil depth. In other words, it requires less soil to effectively filter wastewater.
Fresh N Clean Septic specializes in taking care of all types of alternative septic systems but also offers other quality septic services in Redmond, WA. Please contact us in case of any questions or if problems occur and your system needs repair.
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Overview of Alternative Septic Systems available in Redmond, WA
Alternative septic system design may vary in size, depending on a wide combination of factors.
Such factors include but are not limited to:
- Household size
- Soil type
- Site slope
- Proximity to specific water bodies
- Local regulations and more.
Pressure Distribution Systems
Pressure distribution systems use a pump to collect treated wastewater from the septic tanks. This system type is commonly used where the site conditions require dosing control or if there are only 2 or 3 feet of suitable soil under the drain field.
The chamber contains control floats, a high-water alarm, and the pump. A timer or control float controls the pump.
Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)
An Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) is a special type of wastewater treatment system. Friendly on the environment and efficient, it offers several advantages, like the possibility to be installed in locations with soil conditions that cannot support a conventional system.
Another advantage of the aerobic systems is the small drain field size. That can be beneficial if a customer wants to build a large house on a smaller lot.
ATUs are considered eco-friendly, as they reduce the amount of biological material that can enter the drain field.
Recirculating Sand Filters (RSFs)
RSFs are based on a traditional sand filter design but require the effluent to be pumped into the sand filter from the recirculation tank. After that, the treatment continues as the clear wastewater is evenly distributed across the bed.
This type of alternative system is excellent for Redmond areas with shallow soil cover, high groundwater levels, or low permeability. They remove the contaminants from the wastewater by physical and chemical filtering, which makes them very effective in biological processing.
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Constructed Wetlands
Constructed wetlands are man-made bodies of water created to treat sewage, greywater, or industrial wastes. Their primary use is as a secondary treatment process through the area’s soil, flora, and fauna.
Constructed wetlands, like natural ones, can be used as biofilters to remove a wide range of pollutants, including heavy metals, organic matter, nutrients, pathogens, and more.
Three types of constructed wetlands operate on different treatment processes that excel in removing different pollutants.
They are as follows:
- Surface flow-constructed wetlands – they are very similar to a swamp with plants rooted in a submerged layer of sand. Spatial limitations, matrix characteristics, and organic and hydraulic load can highly restrict this design.
- Horizontal subsurface flow-constructed wetlands – they are commonly used for aerobic treatment. They use a septic tank or a biodigester to dissolve solids or organic matter. A thick layer of gravel and stagnant air over the aquifer will keep the area clear from odor, nuisance and bacteria.
- Vertical flow constructed wetlands – they are gravity systems created to reduce the size of future constructed wetlands. It operates as a gravity system. The wastewater coming down from the septic tank is pumped on top of the wetland, effectively sucking air in it. It gives it an increased aeration capacity compared to other constructed wetlands.
Mound Systems
A mound system can serve as an alternative to a conventional septic system in Redmond when necessary and applicable.
It is used for wastewater treatment in areas with limited accessibility to multi-stage water treatment systems or places where traditional septic systems are prone to failure due to reasons related to the soil or water tables.
Mound systems comprise a mound, a septic tank, and a dosing chamber. Wastewater enters the septic tank and separates into layers. Then, the effluent layer enters the dosing chamber and is then distributed to the mound in small doses. It allows the waste to be treated as it moves through the mound.
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In conclusion
These alternative systems are suitable for specific property sizes and soil depths. They also require complex building materials, but all may require costly repairs in case of damage.
Please contact Fresh N Clean Septic if you are unsure what form of septic system will best fit your needs. We provide a wide range of services, including septic system inspections and septic tank pumping.
Frequently asked questions
When do I need an alternative septic system in Redmond, WA?
You might need an alternative septic system if your Redmond property is characterized by a high water table level, shallow soil depth or impermeable soil.
How to choose an alternative septic system?
It depends on factors like lot size, ground slope, soil types, state regulations, and your budget. It’s essential to consult a septic professional for a consultation.
Which types of alternative septic systems are commonly used in Redmond?
Some of the commonly installed septic systems include pressure distribution systems, aerobic treatment units, recirculating sand filters and others.