Can I Have a Septic Tank Without a Leach Field?
Residents who live off the grid or are not connected to the centralized sewer system are probably familiar with septic systems. These are on-site wastewater treatment facilities that use a combination of natural processes and technology to treat waste and wastewater from household plumbing. The system consists of two primary components: a septic tank and a drain field, also called a leach field. Many property owners are disturbed by the amount of real estate a septic system installation requires, and this has them wondering whether they can have a septic tank installed without a leach field. Septic Blue of Charlotte is an experienced septic company with some answers for you.
Installing A New Septic System without a Leach Field
As we mentioned earlier, the septic system has two primary components. Waste and wastewater travels through the household plumbing and into the septic tank. The septic tank houses and breaks down solid waste. The liquid effluent, or wastewater, travels out of the septic tank and into the leach field, where the wastewater percolates through the soil for treatment. Though there are many types of septic systems, the basic process is the same. The many types of septic systems include, but are not limited to:
- Conventional System
- Chamber System
- Drip Distribution System
- Aerobic Treatment Unit
- Mound Systems
- Recirculating Sand Filter System
- Evapotranspiration System
- Constructed Wetland System
- Cluster/Community System
All of these septic systems have some component that deals with the liquid effluent. So, a septic system requires a leach field or similar structure by design. After all, how else will the wastewater be treated?
However, the aerobic treatment unit is the most space-saving option among the choices. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, these use the same processes as a municipal sewage plant but on a smaller scale. Granted, an aerobic treatment unit has a higher installation cost and draws more power than conventional septic systems.
