Choosing the Perfect Septic System for Your Home

Choosing a suitable septic system for your own home is a very important decision as far as the waste disposal practices of your premises and environmental concerns are concerned. It’s crucial to understand that the right system depends on various factors specific to your property and location. Septic systems include a tank, water treatment processes, and a septic drain field.

Septic tank installation allows for proper waste treatment as well as the preservation of groundwater resources. That’s one of the reasons this waste system is mandated in many counties in Oregon. In this article, we are going to list the main factors to consider while choosing the septic system, to help you choose the best option in regards to the long-term waste management of your house.

Key Factors to Consider

Selecting the right septic system involves consideration of several factors. The system’s capacity should align with the household’s size and daily water usage to prevent overload and maintain optimal plumbing performance. Other factors like the size of your property and the type of soil you have on your land should also be taken into account. The goal with septic is always to set your home up for long-term functionality and environmental responsibility.

Size of Property

The size of your property influences the type of septic system you can install. Conventional septic systems require ample space for both the tank and the drain field. A larger drain field is essential for effective wastewater treatment, ensuring that effluent can be dispersed without contaminating nearby water sources. Smaller lots may require compact systems or alternative solutions, such as plastic chambers or pump-assisted systems, to manage waste efficiently within limited space. This consideration is particularly important in rural areas like Carlton, where property sizes and layouts can differ greatly, influencing the type of septic system that can be installed.

Type of Soil

Soil composition has an impact on septic system performance and design. Sandy soils offer excellent drainage but may require additional measures to prevent groundwater contamination, such as sand filters or fiberglass tanks. Clay-rich soils, being less absorbent, may need larger drain fields or alternative systems like mound systems. For example, in areas around coordinates 45.2906051717160000, -123.1481602063700000, which include parts of Oregon, soil conditions can vary significantly, affecting the choice of the septic system.

Installers assess soil percolation rates to identify the most suitable system. Proper soil evaluation ensures that the chosen septic system effectively treats wastewater while maintaining environmental safety:

Soil Type	Drainage Characteristics	Recommended System
Sandy	Excellent drainage	Sand filter or fiberglass tank
Clay	Poor drainage	Mound system or larger drain field
Loam	Moderate drainage	Traditional pipe-based system
Rocky	Variable drainage	Alternative or engineered system

Household Size

The number of occupants in your home determines the volume of wastewater generated, which in turn dictates the size of the septic tank required. Larger households will need bigger tanks to prevent frequent pumping and ensure efficient treatment.

Types of Septic Systems

Septic systems come in various types, each designed to handle different soil conditions, property sizes, and wastewater treatment needs. From conventional systems that rely on natural bacteria to break down waste, to advanced aerobic treatment units that accelerate the process, homeowners have multiple options to consider.

Understanding the volume requirements and available space is crucial when selecting a system, with concrete tanks being a popular choice for durability and longevity.

Conventional Septic Systems

 These are the most common and are typically less expensive to install. They consist of a septic tank and a drain field, suitable for homes with adequate space and favorable soil conditions.

The effectiveness of a conventional system largely depends on the soil type surrounding the drain field, where a layer of gravel helps distribute effluent for final filtration.

Homeowners should consult a licensed plumber to ensure proper installation and maintenance of these systems, which can serve reliably for decades when properly cared for.

• The septic tank receives and separates wastewater
• Bacteria break down solids in the tank
• Effluent flows to the drain field for filtration
• Soil naturally purifies the water
• Regular maintenance ensures long-term functionality

Aerobic Treatment Systems

Aerobic treatment systems offer advanced wastewater processing capabilities, making them ideal for challenging construction sites or areas with high water tables.

These systems introduce oxygen to accelerate the bacterial breakdown of waste, reducing the risk of tree root intrusion and improving overall effluent quality. Homeowners benefit from reduced odors and more efficient toilet flushing, while regular inspections ensure optimal performance and longevity of the system.

MoDad Systems

MoDad systems offer an innovative solution for areas where conventional septic systems or municipal sewer connections are impractical. These advanced systems utilize electricity to enhance wastewater treatment, making them suitable for challenging building sites with high water tables or poor soil conditions.

While MoDad systems require more frequent septic tank pumping and maintenance to ensure regulatory compliance, they provide effective sewage management for homes located in environmentally sensitive areas.

Sand Filter Systems

Sand filter systems are an effective solution for properties with challenging soil conditions or environmental concerns. These systems utilize a bed of sand to filter and purify liquid effluent from the septic tank, reducing the risk of groundwater contamination.

Regular maintenance, including periodic soil tests and inspections for potential leaks, ensures the system’s longevity and compliance with environmental regulations, while the use of durable materials like steel components enhances overall system reliability.

Mound Systems

Mound systems offer an effective solution for properties with high water tables or shallow bedrock. These systems utilize a raised bed of sand and gravel to treat effluent, providing an additional layer of filtration before wastewater enters the soil.

In areas with heavy clay soils or high levels of organic matter, mound systems can serve as an alternative to constructed wetlands, ensuring proper absorption and treatment of wastewater. The elevated design of mound systems allows for better oxygen flow, enhancing the natural purification process:

Component	Function	Benefit
Sand layer	Filtration	Removes contaminants
Gravel layer	Distribution	Evenly disperses effluent
Soil cover	Protection	Prevents erosion and freezing
Elevated design	Oxygenation	Enhances treatment efficiency

Drip Distribution Systems

Drip distribution systems provide an efficient method for dispersing treated wastewater over a large area, minimizing the risk of soil saturation and contamination. These systems utilize a network of small-diameter polyethylene tubes buried just below the surface, allowing for even distribution of effluent from a water tank. The shallow installation depth enhances accessibility for maintenance and repairs while promoting natural soil treatment processes:

• Reduces soil saturation risk
• Utilizes shallow, small-diameter tubing
• Promotes even effluent distribution
• Enhances natural soil treatment
• Facilitates easy maintenance access

Local Regulations

Before installing a septic system, homeowners need to check the local regulations. In Yamhill County, there are some areas that can connect to the public sewer system and others that require a septic system. Different areas have specific codes that dictate allowable system types, installation processes, and maintenance requirements. Compliance ensures not only legal adherence but also the system’s efficiency and safety. These regulations may dictate minimum setback distances from property lines, wells, and water bodies. These regulations may also take into account the proximity to historical sites or community spaces, such as Hembree Cemetery, to ensure proper environmental protection.

Long-Term Maintenance and Cost

Consider both the initial installation cost and the long-term maintenance needs of the system. While conventional systems may be cheaper upfront, advanced systems like aerobic or MoDad may offer better long-term performance in challenging environments, albeit at a higher initial cost. When considering costs, it’s also important to factor in the specific location of your property. For instance, homes near intersections like NE Mineral Springs Rd and NE Hendricks Rd may have different installation challenges or requirements that could affect the overall budget.

The cost of septic system maintenance varies depending on the type of system and local regulations. While initial installation expenses may be higher for advanced systems, they often require less frequent maintenance and offer better long-term value. Homeowners should factor in ongoing costs such as inspections, pumping, and potential repairs when budgeting for their septic solution.

Professional Guidance

When selecting your septic system or working on it’s installation we highly recommend bringing in an expert to help you with your decisions. Experts consider factors like shower usage frequency and household size to determine the optimal tank capacity and drain field design. Because the septic system is buried in the yard, it’s not easily accessible or able to be changed. It’s not something you will want to second guess or reinstall.

Septic system specialists stay updated on the latest manufacturing techniques and innovative designs. They can advise on advanced treatment options or alternative systems when conventional methods are unsuitable. Professional guidance ultimately leads to a more effective and environmentally friendly waste management solution:

• Evaluate household water usage patterns
• Analyze soil composition and property characteristics
• Recommend appropriate septic system type and size
• Design custom drain field layouts
• Create maintenance schedules
• Advise on the latest technologies and innovative solutions

Need help in choosing the right Septic System for Your Home? Call Dirt Guys.

Looking for a septic installation near me, here we are. Dirt Guys has been working on residential and commercial excavation projects for years, is well-trained to handle complex logistical projects, and is one of the top-rated excavating contractors in all of Yamhill County.

Give us a call to schedule your estimate or have a simple conversation over the phone at (503) 997-8412.

Frequently Asked Questions