Private Septic Systems

Private septic systems are a cost-effective way to treat household wastewater. In this section, find information on wastewater management of private septic systems, including on-lot wastewater systems health, water conservation, filtration, and drip irrigation. Tips on using dyes and tracers to confirm septic system failures – as well as obtaining funding for repairs – can also be found.

Building and Maintaining Private Septic Systems

Private septic systems are common in rural areas. Typically, they consist of two main parts – a septic tank and a drainfield. Before designing and building one, it is important to evaluate the soil properties at the site. Soil evaluation helps increase the likelihood that the system will perform properly for longer.

To further ensure new and exciting systems keep operating adequately – as well as to prevent system failure – proper septic system management is required. Homeowners are advised to reduce water use at home, avoid flushing non-degradable items into drains, and refrain from planting trees or shrubs in the drainfield. In addition, the septic tank should be inspected regularly by a professional and pumped out when necessary.

Septic system maintenance can also protect drinking water, preserve water resources in the community, and save money on replacing system components. If major repairs are needed, homeowners should research various financial assistance programs and choose a qualified professional.

On this page, access resources on private septic systems care, management, and alternatives. In addition, learn how to inspect your septic tank and treat water from wells, use dyes to confirm malfunctions, and protect your system from flooding.

On-Lot Wastewater Systems: The Basics

On-lot wastewater systems are three-stage treatment systems that include a treatment tank, distribution system (pipes), and soil absorption area.

The treatment tank is responsible for removing most of the solids found in the wastewater. The pipes then carry the treatment tank effluent to the soil absorption area, where it can be absorbed into the soil and renovated.

Specifications for Wastewater Systems

In Pennsylvania, design standards for on-lot wastewater systems were established to avoid potential health issues caused by improperly sited or poorly functioning systems. In-ground gravity absorption areas, for instance, can be placed on soils with percolation rates between 6 - 60 minutes per inch and land slopes that do not exceed 25%.

Sites with slower or faster percolation rates will require more complex distribution systems such as elevated sand mounds. Alternatives, such as at-grade systems, are available, as well.

Secondary, or biological, wastewater treatment can be achieved through various filtration or advanced treatment units (FATU). FATUs approved for use in PA are designed to either pass wastewater through an aerobic layer of media or treat the flowing wastewater as it comes into contact with the media.

On-Lot Wastewater Inspections

During real estate transactions, many homeowners are concerned about whether the wastewater system is properly located and maintained. In Pennsylvania, on-lot wastewater systems are typically inspected by a local Sewage Enforcement Officer (SEO) or an inspector certified by the PA Septage Management Association (PSMA).

SEOs are focused on system malfunctions, as well as permitting and overseeing the installation of new on-lot sewage systems. PSMA-certified inspectors, including most septic tank pumpers, focus on the overall health and condition of the system. They are trained to recognize impending malfunctions and examine septic tanks to ensure all baffles and pipes are functioning correctly.

In this section, explore Penn State Extension’s resources on maintaining private septic systems. Realtors can further find valuable information on understanding on-lot wastewater inspections and the outcomes that can be expected.