Understanding the various types of drain fields used in modern systems can help you to identify problems in these vital areas of your household septic system arrangement. Conventional drain fields are by far the most common category, but some homeowners may have one of the following types of drain field installations: Dry well systems Mound-type…
Read articleResidents in Gloucester County, New Jersey, are discovering firsthand the high cost of septic system failure. Numerous homes built between 2000 and the present were constructed with chamber-type septic drain fields as an alternative to traditional pipe and gravel drain field systems. Although these chamber systems were approved by both the state of New Jersey…
Read articleOne Pennsylvania man is finding out the hard way that environmental regulations can create major expenses for homeowners. Wilson Huyett, a 77-year-old resident of rural Salisbury Township, has maintained an outhouse for personal waste management on his 140-acre farm for many years; the farm itself dates back at least two centuries and is located in…
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A combination of fertilizer runoff and failing septic tanks is responsible for an algal bloom in the St. John’s River in Jacksonville, Florida, according to one of the city councilmen of that city. With more than 60,000 septic tanks in operation in and around Jacksonville, even a small percentage of failing systems could have a…
Read articleAs environmental issues continue to take center stage in many public discussions, the issue of failing or underperforming septic systems is attracting considerable attention as well. Many state and local agencies are considering new regulatory requirements for annual inspections of these wastewater treatment solutions. Homeowners with septic tank systems that fail to pass these inspections…
Read articleIncreasingly intrusive regulations regarding the maintenance of septic systems have become a regular fixture in many areas of the U.S. These regulations are often accompanied by added charges to the homeowners for inspections, permits and operational upgrades. In some cases, full replacements or alternative methods of waste disposal may be required by local health departments…
Read articlePurchasing a home is one of the most important investments for most consumers. Investing in a property that includes a septic tank system can be intimidating for some home buyers; however, these waste management systems can be valuable and green-friendly assets for many homeowners. Here are some tips for evaluating the septic system before purchasing…
Read articleInstalling a septic aeration system can increase the longevity of your current septic tank and drainfield by increasing the efficiency of the decomposition agents inside the system. In the typical septic tank environment, lack of oxygen causes the proliferation and dominance of anaerobic bacteria. These microorganisms digest nutrients found in organic materials, converting nitrogen into…
Read articleState, county and local health and environment authorities have been taking a harder line on failing septic systems in recent years. Concerns about the environmental impact of these household wastewater management systems have led to added oversight and increased regulation for septic systems in many areas: Rules proposed by the Ohio Department of Health would…
Read articleMechanical issues can seriously affect the function of a household septic system. Broken pipes, malfunctioning equipment and blockages can create backups and reduce the performance of every element of the system. Understanding how your home septic system works can help you to address common issues before they result in reduced functionality and failure of your…
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