In Wisconsin, there are several types of septic systems approved for use. To determine the appropriate system for your property, a soil test is essential, and you may also want to consider professional septic system installation and pipe replacement services as part of your planning.

GRAVITY FED CONVENTIONAL SYSTEM
This is the least epxpensive and most desirable type of system. Despite what many people think, this is the most common type of system in the state of WI. This basic system uses gravity to move the effluent through the septic tank into the leach field.

DOSED CONVENTIONAL SYSTEM
The difference between this and the above gravity fed system is that the effluent needs to be pumped to the distribution cells (leach field / drain field) The pump needs electricity and it is in a separate chamber of the septic tank.

GRAVELLESS SYSTEM
Gravelless septic systems or "no gravel" septic system trenches use plastic or other prefabricated wastewater distribution systems which are buried in the soil without the use of surrounding gravel. They are great for sites with limited space where gravel is not available or if trucks can't access the work area.

MOUND SYSTEM
When a soils are not suitable for a conventional system, a Mound System is required. Mound systems are needed when the groundwater is too close to the surface of the soil, not allowing enough vertical separation between the infiltrated surface of the leach field and evidence of groundwater. Additionally, mounds are needed when the soil is too restrictive for water to drain into th
HOLDING TANKS
If the site conditions won't allow for any of the above systems, then a holding tank would be your last resort. A holding tank is a watertight structure that acts as a temporary collection for a house's entire sewage. There is no drain field tied with the tank, which means it is essential to consider proper septic system installation if feasible. When the tank nears its full point, it needs to be pumped out by a state-licensed pumper. The effluent then needs to be dumped at a sewage treatment plant or spread onto fields with special permits. Keeping in mind that a holding tank can range from 2,000-6,000 gallons for residential use, it's also advisable to seek soil test services beforehand to ensure compliance with local regulations. Additionally, homeowners might want to explore pipe replacement services if old pipes contribute to drainage issues.

An aerobic pre-treatment system can be added to any of the above systems, including those involved in septic system installation. All aerobic pre-treatment systems allow the dispersal unit (mound or trenches) to require less square footage, which is crucial for optimizing space. Some aerobic units enable the separation from 'limiting factors' to be less, making them a viable option when considering pipe replacement services. Although aerobic pre-treatment tanks tend to be more expensive, they are typically used only when necessary. The benefits stem from the introduction of oxygen into the environment, which increases the number of bacteria that break down solids. Consequently, the effluent produced is much cleaner than that from a standard septic tank, ensuring a more efficient system that may even reduce the need for extensive soil test services.


HOMEOWNER ALERT:
If you have a septic system that was installed before 1987, you most likely have cast iron pipes connecting the tank to the leach field. Over the years a substance similiar to rust builds up on the inside of these pipes.

The build up in the pipes weakens the walls of the pipe and creates an environment for clogging.

Clogging in the pipes can cause back-ups. If mis-diagnosed it may seem like your leach field has failed. If you think this is happening give us acall and we will replace the old pipe with PVC.

This is very common, we replace over 50 pipes every year!

PVC Pipes have been used on septic systems since the late 80's. They are durable and do not get this build-up.

Others may tell you that you need a new septic system - sometimes its just a matter of replacing a pipe!
A soil test report is essential for determining the specifications related to your septic requirements, including type, size, depth, and location. This soil test is necessary for both new systems and replacement systems, ensuring that all aspects of septic system installation are considered.
A soil test, previously referred to as a perc test, involves our team visiting your property with a mini excavator to dig 3 to 5 holes in your yard. This process helps us identify the best possible soil for the septic system installation. The quality of the soil can significantly impact the overall cost of your system. While three boring holes are required for a soil test, the certified soil tester may dig additional holes in search of more favorable soil conditions.
The soil test is carried out by a State Licensed Certified Soil Tester, such as John Kienbaum, Jr., and a County Sanitary Inspector must also be present to validate the findings.
By examining the soil within the borings, we can determine the type of septic system that is most suitable for your site, whether it be a mound or conventional system. The Certified Soil Tester assesses the drainage capability of the soil by analyzing the various layers or horizons. They also look for indicators of high groundwater levels, mottling indicating seasonal groundwater, bedrock, and slowly permeable soil types such as clay and silty clay.
The soil characteristics identified during this process will dictate the type, size, location, and depth of the system to be installed. We will discuss potential locations for the system with the homeowner, ensuring that the installation falls within the designated boring

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