When conventional septic systems are not appropriate due to factors regarding the site, a mound septic system is used as a substitute. This could be a shallow bedrock, there is too much groundwater, or the soil is not penetrable enough. A mound construction comprising of sand and gravel layers on top of soil for proper drainage and filtration with the mound waste water septic system is constructed for the purpose of waste water being processed. On the following pages we summarize typical steps leading to the design and construction of the mound septic system:
1. Evaluation of the Site

It is necessary to inform readers that before any use of land for the construction of the mound septic systems, a thorough site investigation should be done, including such activities:

evaluation of the soil with regard to its capacity to adequately treat effluent (percolation and texture study).

drainage – a direction which will establish whether there is adequate slope to allow for gravity drainage or not.

compliance requirements to the local regulations such as distance from the property to wells, water sources or boundaries.

2. System Design Layout planning and engineering calculations are needed during the design process. Layouts contain some crucial factors and they include:

Estimated Daily Wastewater Flow:

How much wastewater does the house or other facility expects its occupants to generate?

This will help in assessing the required volume of the mound and also the tank.

b. Size of Septic Tank:

The septic tank is generally the first unit downstream of the mound and receives all the wastewater separating solid wastes from scum.

This is based on average family consumption of water or number of family members. It is common for a household to require a tank that is 1000-2000 gallons.

c. Size of Mound:

Length and Width: Based upon the soils evapotranspiration capacity and soils water absorption rate combined with flowing wastewater that needs absorption.

Height: The mound is built with at least 12 inches of sand put above the limiting layer to provide the required space above bedrock or ground water.

Absorption area within mounds is influenced by the load of waste water as well as the permeability of soils. Soils of high permeability do not require a high absorption area in general terms.

c. The Mound’s Elements:

Distribution network: Flushing or tubing systems serving the periphery of the mound in equal distribution of used water.

Sand Layer: Washed coarse aggregates that promote the effectiveness of both seepage and cleanliness.

Gravel Layer: Perched under the sand allowing the water to disperse evenly to the sand before being allowed to go through the sand.

Top soil: Prevents the plants from being eroded and absorbs some rainfall water to an extent helps in placing the vegetation cover on the mound.

3. Procedures for Construction

a. Set Up the Site:

Clear the area and remove the dirt where the mound is going to be positioned along with any flora.

Ensure that the mound sits on a flat surface and if need arises, some cutting complete this may help further this.

Construct Mound Layers (b):

The gravel layer should be placed most likely first for this will facilitate even distribution of wastewater on the mound.

Apply sand layer; this part of the process is essential in the filtration of the waste. The depth will depend on how far this will be raised to prevent water from the soil layer.

Put in the drip lines or distribution pipes. In this case, the design should permit effective distribution of the wastewater in the entire network. Such pipes are normally laid underneath the gravel layer and are perforated.

Spread a little topsoil over the surface. This would be done in order to conceal the system and also to enable the growth of grass or other plants that are above the mound.

b. Place the pump and septic))

A septic tank should be connected to the house or a building whenever it is being installed.

A gravity system does not allow any waste water from the tank to the mound, therefore a pump chamber needs to be installed for this task depending on the system and waste.

4. Maintenance of the Entire System

First in, last out routine inspection Every so often check to establish the status of the drainage, the pipes and the pump and check for any blockages or overflows.

Tank pumping: For the purpose of avoiding the formation of sludge, it is necessary to suck out the contents of septic tanks every three to five years.

Management of the vegetation: To control erosion, the slope of the mound should be planted with grasses or other similar low-care vegetation, but deep-rooted plants should be avoided as they might disturb the system.

5. Advantages of a Mound Structure

It is suitable for places with high groundwater levels, marginal bedrock thickness, or poor soil structure.

Protects contaminated groundwater.

Provides additional aeration because of the presence of a sand layer.

6. Disadvantages of a Mound Structure

Requires more space than the conventional septic tanks.

High initial construction costs.

Routine maintenance is more frequent.

In conclusion

Regarding challenging environments, mound septic systems are an effective means of taking care of wastewater. Long-term functionality and environmental protection of this septic system is reliant on the appropriate ability to design, construct and maintain the system. For good and safe design, and therefore compliance, use of local standards is also important and when necessary, employ the services of a certified engineer or septic system designer.