What is a Wisconsin mound system?

A Wisconsin Mound System is a soil based onsite wastewater treatment and disposal system. It is a sand filter with the final discharge to the surface of the natural soil from the base of the mound. Domestic septic tank effluent is distributed over the sand with a pressure distribution network.

How do you size a mound septic system?

The actual size of a mound system is determined by estimating the sand fill loading rate, soil (basal) loading rate, and the linear loading rate. Once these values are established, the mound can be sized for the site. The final step is to design the effluent distribution network and the pumping system.

How much room do you need for a mound system?

Unlike conventional systems the mound system will require two separate tanks. The first will be a standard septic tank buried at a depth of 10 to 16 inches and located a minimum of 10 feet from the foundation of the house.

How does a mound system work?

The mound is a drainfield that is raised above the natural soil surface in a specific sand fill material. Within the sand fill is a gravel-filled bed with a network of small diameter pipes. Septic tank effluent is pumped through the pipes in controlled doses to insure uniform distribution throughout the bed.

Can you walk on a septic mound?

Your family can walk on a well-maintained drain field without fear of encountering puddles of affluent and dangerous bacteria. Bicycles and tricycles are also acceptable because they are not heavy enough to compress or disturb the soil.

Do mound septic systems smell?

Most septic systems you will not know is there because they will not smell. The mound septic system is placed near the surface, which means you are not far from the sewage. If the waste does not leach fast enough through the ground, it can find its way to the top.

How long does it take to install a mound system?

If the land is not ideal, it may take extra time to excavate or get the soil suitable for leaching. The permitting process could delay progress, or even weather can be a factor. However, on average, it takes about 7 days for a knowledgeable team to get your system set up.

Can a mound system be put anywhere?

It costs a great deal of money to install these systems, but they can be placed anywhere. A mound septic system has no container, and digging too far gets you too close to the water table. This means instead of digging down you have to dig out.

How long do mound systems last?

The short answer is: septic systems tend to last anywhere from 15 to 40 years. It’s a large range, but that is because the average lifespan is entirely dependent upon a lot of factors.

Can you mow a mound system?

To prevent compaction, do not allow any vehicles or heavy equipment on the mound. When mowing the lawn, use a hand mower, rather than a riding mower. The slope of the mound makes it more susceptible to erosion than a conventional drain field.

How much does a sand mound cost?

Mound Septic System The sand then filters the water before it gets into the soil and groundwater. This design requires a lot of space. They’re also expensive to install because a sand mound has to be constructed. Total cost ranges from $10,000 to $20,000.

Why was raised mound systems back up?

When the raised mound system experiences a very high water level, the solid waste disperses in to the absorption area and clogs it. This prevents the wastewater from having a normal wastewater treatment. The clogging will cause the backing up of the untreated effluent. If this is not resolved immediately, the system will fail.

What is a mound type septic system?

A mound septic system is a type of alternative septic system which is used when site conditions do not allow for the installation of a conventional septic system.