Question: Is a mound septic system bad?

January 2023 · 4 minute read

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.

How long do mound septic systems last?

The short answer is: septic systems tend to last anywhere from 15 to 40 years. It’s a large range, but that is because the average lifespan is entirely dependent upon a lot of factors.

Can you walk on a septic mound?

Avoid standing, walking or driving on the mound. These kinds of activities can cause erosion, compress the soil, and potentially damage your septic system. This will help to ensure that your septic system is in good order and prevent an overspill, which can damage the mound and require the system to be reconstructed.

How do you maintain a mound septic 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.
  • How much does it cost to replace a mound system?

    Mound Septic System Cost A mound septic system costs $10,000 to $20,000 to install. It’s the most expensive system to install but often necessary in areas with high water tables, shallow soil depth or shallow bedrock.

    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.

    Can a mound system freeze?

    When a septic system freezes, it can cause water to back up into the house, and result in a hefty bill when excavating is needed, Litzau said. The area in which the mound or drain-field begins is the most common site for freezing issues, he said.

    How do I hide my septic mound?

    With a little work, however, you can camouflage a septic mound.

  • Taper the edges of the mound by bringing in additional soil and piling around the edges of the mound.
  • Cover the mound and the adjoining berm with grass or a low, dense ground cover plant.
  • Why do I need a mound septic system?

    The purpose of a mound septic system is to keep the waste product away from the water table. The water table has to be maintained, and a damaged septic tank is a quick way to contaminate it. The mound septic system does a great job of protecting the water table and sometimes more so than other septic tank measures.

    How do you hide a septic tank mound?

    Choose grass or herbaceous plants for on the mound and trees or shrubs for around the mound.

  • A septic mound system can be a real eyesore in your backyard.
  • Planting and props can be convenient ways to camouflage the mound so that it fits in better with your overall home landscape.
  • Can you have a garbage disposal with a mound system?

    It is not OK. You really shouldn’t be using a garbage disposal with your septic system. The way that the septic system is set up involves a large tank filled with water and the waste from your home. The solid waste settles to the bottom where bacteria go to work breaking it down.

    What is a mound system alternative?

    Mound systems Mound septic systems are a very common type of alternative septic system used when the soil conditions do not allow for a conventional septic system. They allow many people to use a septic system, when they otherwise could not have.

    How much is a mound system?

    Costs of Mound Septic Systems A mound septic system has an average cost between $10,000 and $20,000, but may cost more for exceptionally large systems. It is important to regularly maintain the septic system, with annual maintenance and pumping having an average cost of $500.

    What is the alternative to a septic tank?

    The major alternatives to septic tanks include mound, aerobic septic, and cesspool systems, as well as sander filter, constructed wetlands, and drip irrigation. The mound system is most popular for soil that is too shallow over bedrock or for a water table which is too high.

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