Sand Filter System in Portland

What is a Sand Filter Septic System?

A sand filter system, also called a recirculating sand filter or intermittent sand filter, is a type of septic system. It treats wastewater very much like a standard septic system. However, wastewater drains through a layer of gravel and sand before it’s absorbed back into the earth. Sand filter systems are commonly used in areas where there is insufficient soil or limited space.

Recirculating sand filter septic systems can be developed below the ground or above. They consist of these main components:

• The septic tank
• Pump chamber
• The sand filter
• Drainfield

How Does a Recirculating Sand Filter Work?

• Wastewater from the home flows into the septic tank for treatment.
• Then it flows into the pump chamber.
• Then it’s pumped out into the sand filter for treatment.
• The effluent is treated through three different purification processes while it is draining through the sand filter: aerobic microbes may assimilate some nutrients in the effluent; solids are filtered out by the sand; and a chemical process occurs where contaminants adhere to the grains of sand, allowing biological growth on top of the sand.
• Treated wastewater then flows into the drainfield and down into the soil.

A replacement area that’s the same size as the current drainfield should be near the current one in case it can no longer be used.

Where Do Sand Filter Systems Work Best?

It’s good to consider intermittent sand filter systems in areas where there isn’t a sufficient amount of soil to support a conventional septic system, as sand is used to make up for the lack of soil. They are also good for properties that are close to water or that have a high water table.

Sand Filter System Maintenance

If you have a sand filter system, it is important to keep it maintained. Impermeable materials like plastic and concrete must not be placed on top of the sand filter system. This restricts airflow into the soil, affecting the treatment.

In Oregon, all new sand filter installations require semi-annual maintenance that must be performed by a licensed DEQ maintenance provider to keep them functioning properly and to prevent premature failure.

Experts in Sand Filter System Installation

If you’re interested in having a sand filter system installed on your property, contact Speedy Septic. We have over 25 years of experience in installing and servicing sand filters. In fact, Speedy Septic is the largest installer of septic systems in Oregon!