Expert agent needed for waterfront/rural properties with septic systems to avoid high costs and environmental issues
When purchasing a waterfront or rural property, it is important to use a real estate agent who is familiar with the different types of septic systems and their pros and cons. Whenever possible you should include a condition of inspection of the septic system when purchasing waterfront or rural properties. These systems can last many years if maintained properly but can cost you between $15,000 to $60,000 or more to replace depending on the complexity of the system required, and the location where it is to be installed. Locations with small footprints, large Canadian Shield rock or heavy clay soils may require excavation of natural soil to be replaced with sand from distant locations or raised beds which can be very expensive to haul and install. You will also want to ensure an existing system is sized properly for the amount of bedrooms and fixtures in the home. You may find that additons have been made to the home without consideration for the size of the existing septic system.
Septic systems are used to treat and dispose of wastewater from homes and businesses that are not connected to a municipal sewage system. They work by treating the wastewater and then discharging it into the soil where it can be further purified before reaching groundwater. There are several types of septic systems, each with its own characteristics and cautions.
Class 1 septic systems include Privy, Outhouse, Composting toilets, and incinerating toilets. They only accept human waste and are often used in remote locations where there is no access to a municipal sewage system if they are permitted at all. The structure must be vermin-proof to prevent mice and other pests from entering the pit through doors, walls, or windows.
Class 2 septic systems are designed to treat gray water only, which excludes human waste. Gray water is wastewater from sinks, showers, and other household appliances. It should not be discharged illegally, and the system should not receive any human waste.
Class 3 septic systems are cesspools that only receive human waste. They are often used as overflow for composting toilets. It is important to ensure that there are no illegal discharges from the system, and that the system only receives human waste.
Class 4 septic systems are the most common type of septic system, consisting of a septic tank and leaching bed. The septic tank retains solids, while liquid waste moves to the leaching bed. The tank is typically pumped every 3 to 5 years, and the system may have pumping chambers or other components. It can be either gravity-fed or pump-up when property does allow for the septic tank to be lower than the homes discharge pipe.
Class 4 septic systems with advanced treatment units are similar to Class 4 systems but include additional treatment tanks. They require more maintenance than Class 4 systems and have many moving parts that can break down. However, they are great for small footprints and do a great job when they are working properly.
Class 5 septic systems are holding tanks that require frequent pumping. There is no leaching bed, and the tank must be pumped out multiple times a year or before it fills. These systems are often equipped with a high-level alarm and can be very expensive to operate because of pumping and environmental disposal costs.
Overall, it is important to choose the right type of septic system based on your specific needs and the site conditions. Proper maintenance and monitoring are also critical to ensure that the system is functioning properly and not causing harm to the environment or public health. It is important to consult with local authorities and licensed professionals when designing or installing a septic system to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and standards. Poorly functioning septic systems can cause blue/green algae blooms in nearby bodys of water making the lake vertually unsuable during the bloom.
