The Pros and Cons Of Mound Septic Systems

Choosing a septic system is crucial for effective wastewater management in areas without access to centralized sewer systems. Among the alternatives, the mound septic system stands out as a unique option, situated above ground and utilizing sand filtration for waste disposal.

To make informed decisions about its suitability, let’s find out which are the advantages and disadvantages, exploring each aspect in detail.

Source: vecteezy.com

Advantages

A mound septic system includes a septic tank, usually made of various materials. Unlike traditional systems relying on gravity, it employs pumps to move effluent to the mound’s top, where it filters through layers of sand, soil, or pebbles.

This type of setup is particularly beneficial in areas with high groundwater or saturated soils unable to handle typical septic loads. Mounds effectively treat wastewater before it re-enters the ground.

Not much excavation required

The mound septic system’s installation is more straightforward than that of other septic systems. Excavation in the elevated mound area is minimal, lowering the risk of construction damage.

The primary objective of a mound septic system is to act as a safeguard, preventing waste material from reaching and contaminating the water table. Maintaining the water table’s integrity is crucial, especially given the potential pollution risks associated with damaged septic tanks.

Key Points:

• Effective prevention of waste material reaching the water table.
• Crucial role in maintaining water table integrity.
• High efficiency, outperforming other septic tank maintenance methods.

Disadvantages

Potential Odor Challenges

While most septic systems are typically odorless, the mound septic system may present odor-related challenges due to its surface proximity. Despite its accessibility for sewage disposal, the potential for waste resurfacing in slow drainage scenarios introduces a unique consideration.

Key Points:

• Surface proximity facilitates easy sewage disposal.
• There is a rare chance of odor issues in case of slow drainage.
• Potential waste resurfacing affecting odor dynamics.

The Mound

The term “mound septic system” accurately describes its physical appearance, leaving a visible mound of dirt after installation, reaching heights of up to five feet. While landscaping possibilities exist to modify its appearance, the mound serves as a distinctive and prominent feature, influencing the visual aspect of the chosen location.

Key Points:

• Distinctive physical appearance with a visible mound of dirt.
• Possibility of landscaping to alter its visual impact.
• A notable feature post-installation reaching heights up to five feet.

In conclusion, thoroughly exploring each aspect allows for a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of mound septic systems. While the costs of the mound septic systems may vary, they are generally more expensive due to additional components and labor needed for their construction compared to gravity systems.

When deciding on a septic system, it’s essential to weigh these factors carefully, considering both environmental impact and practical concerns for an informed decision in wastewater management.