Infiltrator Septic Systems

Vermaraj

What do you guys think of infiltrator type septic systems?

We are starting a new project. In order to get the building permits we were required to use a double row infiltrator setup. I went to there website to check it out and it seems pretty slick.

At the same time, the conditions of the permit basically eliminate any benefit from this system. We have to bed it in stone, cover with stone and use a membrane before backfilling. With all that they have derated the system to the capacity of a regular 4" leeching pipe. Not sure why. We have great percs and no wetlands but I have no interest in fighting our glorious building department.

Just wondering what you guys think of this system? Anything special to look out for when they are installing it?

jmic

Verm,

I use them occasionally , they have there place. I'd rather use concrete galley's.

When using the infiltrator's I always pay the extra money and use the heavy duty ones. Also always try to backfill the system and do final grading with an excavator from the side, staying off of them with a machine.

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Joe

Alan Mesmer

As said they do have their places. Their claim to fame is that they have more capacity than the same size gravel and pipe systems. I think that they say 50% more capacity than gravel and 4" pipe. For me the big benefit is not having to use gravel. I have done quite a few comparisons and a good bit of labor is saved. In my case I can just use an excavator and not an excavator/skidsteer combo. I am told that many areas have given a credit for infiltrator use vs standard conventional systems. In other words you many only need 600' of infiltrator laterals vs 900' of a conventional system. Unfortunately my area is not one of them.
As you also have said many health depts. do not recognize the credit for this type of system and as such the benefit is greatly reduced.
As far as the system goes, it goes together very easily and is lightweight. It comes neatly stacked and can be configured to different needs very easily. I personally like to use it when it is a viable option.

Alan

mmexcavation

Here in Asheville NC we get a 25% reduction over conventional. I love them, 36" bucket and a laser, you can drop one in one day and have it inspected and backfilled the next. Backfill by hand on both sides to above the vents this will keep you from crushing them during backfill. Splash plates are a good idea if not required anyway. 600-700 feet where is that guy from? Must have bad soil. Here less than 200 is generally always the norm.