What Is a Septic Sand Filter and How Does It Work?

Sand filters are designed for areas that don’t have enough soil—or the quality of the soil is too poor—for a septic system. Sand is used to treat and filter the wastewater, preparing it to drain into the leach field when ready.

If you’re thinking about a septic system with a sand filter in Bethel, OH, read on to learn more about how it works and what’s involved in installing your own sand filter.

How sand filters work

Sand filters are essentially a large concrete or lined box that’s filled with sand. Over the sand filter, gravel and a series of pipes are installed to help distribute wastewater. They’re located over the septic system. Wastewater enters the septic tank, and is then sent out through the pipes to ensure even distribution over the sand filter.

Once the wastewater is sent out, it trickles down through the gravel and the sand underneath, which helps treat the effluent. Microbes feed off the organic matter in the water, while other matter sticks to the grains of sand. Over time, these purification processes remove harmful pathogens and allow the treated water to collect.

The bottom of the sand filter has a drain, which takes the collected, purified water and pumps it out over a dedicated drain field. The treated water can then soak into the earth and eventually will rejoin the groundwater supply.

How to keep your sand filter in great shape

It’s important to keep your septic sand filter in Bethel, OH functioning properly. Here are some tips to help you out:

  • Keep records of where your septic system and sand filter are located: Knowing exactly where your septic tank, sand filter and drain field are located is important—if you want to add on to your home, dig for a pool or build a structure on your property, you need to avoid the septic system. Most municipalities have rules about how far away a septic system must be located.
  • Keep water runoff away: Your home, patio and driveway will all have a certain amount of water runoff whenever there’s a big storm. Be sure to divert that water away from your sand filter or drain field, as it will overwhelm the system.
  • Reduce home water usage: The less water your household uses, the less likely your septic system will be overwhelmed. Every gallon of water that goes down your drains has to be treated by the sand filter, and that takes time. If you can reduce your water usage, your septic system will better be able to handle the load.
  • Stay off the sand filter and drain field: As with any septic system, keep heavy objects, animals, children, vehicles and buildings off the sand filter and drain field. This will directly impact your septic system’s ability to treat the water and can damage the pipes.
  • Maintain a regular inspection schedule: Inspecting your sand filter and drain field for signs of sewage, smells and wet spots is the best way to spot problems before they become expensive hassles and major repairs.

For all your septic system needs, including more information about what a septic sand filter can do for you, call Gullett Sanitation Services Inc. in Bethel, OH today.

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