Comparison of Common Septic Systems

 
NextGen Septic Mound Systems Conventional Systems Aeration System
How Does It Work Three-stage treatment includes:

  1. Simultaneous biological aerobic and anoxic treatment
  2. Membrane separation
  3. Ozone disinfection
Elevated, man-made soil mound is used in addition to conventional septic tank. Septic tank is used to separate water and solids, then releases water into a soil drain field for filtration over time. Ambient air is injected into septic tank, increasing natural bacterial activity within septic tank.
Drain Field Requirements Reduced or no drain field required. Can be used with failed clogged drain field to repair contamintated soil. Mound field must be constructed on flat land to avoid failure. Many states require a mandatory “settling period” before mound system can be used as a drain field. Trenches or lines need up to 36″ clearance above restrictive layers to permit percolation of soil for treatment. Standard or shallow drain field, typically fitted with trenches or drip tubes.
Advantages Produces clear, treated water free from fecal coliforms, nitrogen, phosphorous and other harmful contaminants. Similar to conventional septic, once mound field is created Low cost to build and maintain.
Disadvantages Many states require a “settling” period before mound may be used for drain field. Requires costly transporting of soil to create mound area. Prone to failures, espeically where soil is sandy and rocky or in high water table areas. The aerobic system generates biomass growth, which can clog the system if not maintained.
Average Cost $19,000 and up $30,000 – $40,000 $7,000 – $13,000 $15,000 – $20,000
Maintenance Pumps solids annually Pump solids every 2-5 years Pump solids every 2-5 years Pump solids and clean filters annually.