Different Types of Florida Septic Systems
About 30% of Florida residents rely on some type of septic system. Each type is regulated by the state government to ensure safety and compliance.
Lakeland Septic Company of Lakeland, FL, would like to share a little about the different septic system styles that serve the millions of people who rely on them every day.
Conventional or standard septic system
This is the most common type of septic system serving urban and rural areas within Florida. It consists of three main parts:
Septic tank
Receives waste from the home and separates the solids from the liquids
Distribution box
Sends liquids on to the drain field
Drain field
Where effluent is processed into the adjacent soil
While highly efficient, conventional septic systems can be rather large and therefore not ideal for very small properties.
Other types of septic systems
Here are a few other septic system types that some Florida home and business owners use.
Chamber system
A chamber septic system uses polystyrene materials that make the system work well in areas with high water tables and where the volume fluctuates greatly during the year.
Drip distribution system
This is similar to a chamber septic system but includes a holding tank (also called a “dose tank”) that manages the water flow. Drip distribution septic systems are ideal for particularly small areas but require considerable maintenance and electricity to run.
Aerobic treatment unit (ATU)
ATUs use oxygen along with a filter, baffles and an air pump to break down solids in the septic tank. ATUs send treated water on to a drain field, as with conventional septic systems, and are great for small properties in areas with high water tables.
Mound septic systems
Mound systems are ideal for shallow ground and high water tables. Water is pumped to the top of the mound for filtration. These systems can be pricey and require extra space, so they’re usually not a first choice.
The right septic system for your property
We don’t expect you to have a working knowledge of every technical and scientific aspect of modern septic systems. Your septic company or septic contractor should be able to explain what you need to know after evaluating your property.
Septic professionals are familiar with all the different types of systems and can quickly determine which is best for you based on:
- How much space is available
- The expected volume the system will be handling
- The grade of the land
- Local water tables
- Costs for installation and future maintenance
Septic regulations in Florida
The Florida State Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) oversees septic installations and use in our state. Your septic contractor should be fully versed in the many regulations, codes and compliances as set forth by the DEP.
He or she should also know about approved septic tank and system materials as well as which permits are required for the lawful installation of a new septic system.
If your septic provider doesn’t know these things, you need another provider.
Get the right Florida septic system for your home or business
Lakeland Septic Company brings more than 15 years’ experience to designing, installing and repairing all types of septic systems in the state of Florida. We know the specs, and we know the requirements. When we do septic installations, we do them right the first time.
Speak with an expert today at (863) 738-0504, or reach out with our handy contact form.
