Septic system status
Septic system status
(OP)
What is the best way to see if a septic system is functional, electrically and drainfield short of getting it inspected?
In the recent past, at least one private travel trailer was stored over the drainfield and there may be no power to the pump. The pumps have been checked out with an extension cord and are ok.
I just do not want to dig up all the lines if I don't have to.
In the recent past, at least one private travel trailer was stored over the drainfield and there may be no power to the pump. The pumps have been checked out with an extension cord and are ok.
I just do not want to dig up all the lines if I don't have to.
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)





RE: Septic system status
You could try putting dye into the sink and running water, lots of water, to see if the system could accept it. Just a thought. If it fails, the dye might come out of the ground or their will be a backup.
RE: Septic system status
RE: Septic system status
Mainly worried about the trailers having crushed the pipes in the past.
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Septic system status
Take the caps off and look, there should be no standing water in them.
When water is running into the field you may see it at the 'top' end, but never at the far end.
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P.E. Metallurgy, Plymouth Tube
RE: Septic system status
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Septic system status
RE: Septic system status
The reserve is just extra infiltration trenching and pervious piping to be utilized when, and I did say when, the primary becomes clogged. Required in our area. Like oversizing an infiltration trench for a storm water detention system.
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Septic system status
RE: Septic system status
RE: Septic system status
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)