Beyond the Drainfield: Understanding Supplemental Treatment of Septic System Effluent

Septic systems are a reliable way to manage wastewater for homes not connected to municipal sewer lines. They rely on natural processes to treat wastewater, but sometimes, the standard system needs a little extra help. This is where supplemental treatment comes in. But what exactly is supplemental treatment of septic system effluent, and why is it sometimes necessary?

The Basics of a Standard Septic System

Before diving into supplemental treatment, let's recap how a typical septic system works:

Wastewater enters the septic tank: Solids settle to the bottom as sludge, while lighter materials like grease and oil float to the top as scum.
Partially treated effluent flows to the drainfield: This is a network of underground trenches or beds where the effluent is further treated by soil microbes as it filters through the soil.

This system works well in many situations, but certain conditions can hinder its effectiveness.

When Supplemental Treatment is Needed

Supplemental treatment refers to any additional process used to further treat septic tank effluent before it enters the drainfield or other dispersal area. It's often required when site conditions are less than ideal for conventional systems. Here are some common scenarios:

Poor Soil Conditions: Clay soils or soils with a high water table don't allow effluent to filter and treat properly. Supplemental treatment can significantly improve the effluent quality before it reaches the soil, reducing the risk of contamination.
Small Lot Sizes: Limited space may restrict the size of the drainfield, making it necessary to pretreat the effluent to reduce the required drainfield area.
Environmentally Sensitive Areas: Properties near lakes, streams, or other sensitive water bodies require a higher level of treatment to protect water quality. Supplemental treatment helps remove more pollutants before the effluent is discharged.
Nitrogen Reduction: In some areas, regulations require significant nitrogen reduction in wastewater to prevent nutrient pollution in water bodies. Certain supplemental treatment technologies are specifically designed to remove nitrogen.

Types of Supplemental Treatment Technologies

Several technologies are used for supplemental treatment, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs): These systems introduce oxygen into the wastewater, promoting the growth of aerobic bacteria that break down pollutants more efficiently than the anaerobic bacteria in a standard septic tank. ATUs produce a higher quality effluent and can be used in situations with poor soil or limited space.
Media Filters: These systems use various media, such as sand, peat, or textile materials, to filter the effluent and remove additional pollutants. They can be installed above ground or below ground and are effective at removing solids, organic matter, and some nutrients.
Constructed Wetlands: These are artificial wetlands designed to treat wastewater. Plants and microorganisms in the wetland further purify the effluent before it is discharged. They are a natural and aesthetically pleasing option, but they require more land area.
Disinfection Systems: These systems use ultraviolet (UV) light, chlorine, or ozone to kill bacteria and viruses in the effluent. They are often used when the effluent is discharged to surface water or in areas with strict public health regulations.

Benefits of Supplemental Treatment

Improved Effluent Quality: Supplemental treatment significantly reduces pollutants in the effluent, minimizing environmental impact and protecting water quality.
Smaller Drainfield Size: By pre-treating the effluent, the required drainfield area can be reduced, making it suitable for properties with limited space.
Increased System Longevity: By reducing the load on the drainfield, supplemental treatment can extend the life of the entire septic system.
Compliance with Regulations: In many areas, supplemental treatment is required to meet local environmental regulations.

Choosing the Right System

The best type of supplemental treatment depends on several factors, including site conditions, local regulations, budget, and desired level of treatment. Consulting with a qualified septic system professional is essential to determine the most appropriate system for your specific needs.

Supplemental treatment is an important tool for ensuring effective and environmentally responsible wastewater management in situations where standard septic systems are not sufficient. By understanding the different technologies available, homeowners can make informed decisions about their wastewater treatment needs.

Beyond the Tank: The Vital Role of a Septic System Designer

12/18/24

When you think about plumbing, the focus is often on what happens inside your house. But what about when the water goes out? For homes not connected to municipal sewer systems, a septic system is the unsung hero of wastewater management. And behind every effective septic system is a skilled professional: the septic system designer.

But what exactly does a septic system designer do? It's much more than just picking out a tank. They play a crucial role in ensuring your wastewater is treated safely and efficiently, protecting both your property and the environment.

The Architect of Wastewater Treatment

A septic system designer is essentially an engineer specializing in on-site wastewater treatment. They're responsible for planning and designing a system that effectively treats and disposes of household wastewater. This involves a complex process that considers numerous factors:

Site Evaluation: This is the foundation of any good septic system design. The designer analyzes the soil type, topography, and water table of the property. Soil type is crucial as it determines how well the effluent (treated wastewater) will filter. Topography dictates how the system can be laid out, and the water table influences the depth and type of system that can be installed.
Local Regulations: Septic systems are heavily regulated to protect public health and the environment. Designers must be well-versed in local and state regulations, ensuring the system meets all requirements for setbacks, sizing, and installation.
Wastewater Volume: The size of the system depends on the estimated volume of wastewater the household will generate. This is typically based on the number of bedrooms in the house, as this correlates with the number of occupants.
System Type: There are various types of septic systems, including conventional systems with drainfields, and alternative systems for challenging sites with poor soil or high water tables. The designer determines the most appropriate system based on the site evaluation and wastewater volume.
Detailed Design and Plans: The designer creates detailed plans and specifications for the system, including the location of the tank, drainfield, and any other components. These plans are essential for obtaining permits and for the installation process.

Why is a Professional Designer So Important?

A properly designed septic system is crucial for several reasons:

Environmental Protection: A malfunctioning system can contaminate groundwater and surface water with harmful bacteria and pollutants. A well-designed system ensures proper treatment of wastewater, minimizing environmental impact.
Public Health: Contaminated water can pose serious health risks. A properly functioning system protects public health by preventing the spread of waterborne diseases.
System Longevity: A well-designed and installed system will function efficiently for many years. Poor design can lead to premature failure, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.
Property Value: A properly functioning septic system is a valuable asset to any property. Conversely, a failing system can significantly decrease property value.

Choosing the Right Designer

When selecting a septic system designer, look for:

Experience and Expertise: Choose a designer with a proven track record and extensive experience in septic system design.
Local Knowledge: A designer familiar with local regulations and soil conditions is essential.
Licensing and Certification: Ensure the designer is licensed and certified to practice in your area.

Investing in a professional septic system designer is an investment in the health of your property, your family, and the environment. They are the unsung heroes of wastewater management, ensuring that what goes out is handled responsibly and effectively.

Joel Schwartz, REHS 5/9/24 Joel Schwartz, REHS 5/9/24

Supporting Sustainable Agriculture

The Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance represents an exciting opportunity for innovation and sustainability in agriculture. By supporting diverse agricultural enterprises and rural recreational activities, the ordinance contributes to the economic viability of farming and ranching while preserving our agricultural heritage. For instance, the ordinance encourages the use of sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and water conservation, which align with our commitment to environmental stewardship. We are excited to be part of this movement towards a more sustainable agriculture sector.

Supporting Sustainable Agriculture: The Role of Septic Systems in the Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance

Understanding the Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance

Santa Barbara County’s proposed Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance might pave the way to ensure that our rich agricultural culture is not lost to urban development. The County’s website says, “The Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance is set to significantly change the County Land Use and Development Code (LUDC) and the Coastal Zoning Ordinance to accommodate a variety of uses incidental to and compatible with agricultural activities on lands zoned Agricultural II (AG-II). This ordinance aims to support and encourage the continuation of farming and ranching while broadening the economic base for farmers and ranchers by allowing supplementary enterprises such as where feasible and appropriate.

As Supervisor Joan Hartmann said in a recent Santa Barbara Independent article, “Before the pandemic, food service was not allowed at wineries. To help wineries safely re-open under state rules during COVID, the county passed a temporary ordinance requiring food service. As such, the third opportunity under the Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance (AEO) could allow for food service at wineries to become permanent. Wineries found that visitor experiences greatly improved when food is served.”

How Does This Relate to Septic Systems?

As experts in septic design and consultation, we understand the importance of ensuring agricultural enterprises have the appropriate infrastructure to support any new activities. With the Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance permitting various supplemental uses, including small-scale agricultural processing, farm stands, rural recreational activities, and more, there may be an increased need for septic systems to accommodate these activities. However, it's important to note that installing septic systems under the Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance may come with specific challenges, such as ensuring proper waste management and avoiding contamination of agricultural lands. Our team is well-equipped to handle these challenges, ensuring your project's success.

Ensuring Compliance and Environmental Health

Standard Septic does more than just septic system design, we can consult on your restaurant operation too! Before owning Standard Septic, Joel Schwartz, REHS, was a Santa Barbara County Environmental Health restaurant plan checker. That means we can get you through the Health Department permitting process, helping you navigate their requirements toward your goals. As a Registered Environmental Health Specialist (#8867), you can trust that Standard Septic deeply understands environmental health regulations and industry best practices. Our expertise ensures that every septic installation and consulting project we undertake is executed to the highest standards, meeting both regulatory requirements and the needs of our clients.

Our Commitment

At Standard Septic we pride ourselves not only on providing top-notch septic design, percolation testing, backflow testing, and restaurant design consultation services but also on our commitment to environmental stewardship. With over seven years of experience in the industry, we have encountered various challenges and honed our skills to handle any project with precision. As environmental enthusiasts, we prioritize eco-friendliness and sustainability in our septic system designs, ensuring minimal environmental impact while maximizing system efficiency.

Embracing Innovation for Sustainable Agriculture

Moving Forward Together

As the Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance progresses through Planning Commission and adoption hearings, Standard Septic remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture. We are here to provide our septic design, consultation, and testing services, ensuring that your agricultural enterprise can thrive in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner.

If you have any questions about how the Agricultural Enterprise Ordinance may impact your agricultural enterprise's septic needs, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you navigate the complexities and ensure your project's success.

Danielle Ralston 4/22/24 Danielle Ralston 4/22/24

Protecting Your Water Quality

The Importance of Backflow Testing in California: Protecting Your Water Quality

Water quality in any home or business is critical for health and safety and the integrity of plumbing systems and appliances. In California, where environmental regulations are stringent, ensuring that water supply systems are free from contamination is a legal and practical requirement. One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining water purity is backflow prevention and regular testing.

Protect Your Water Quality with Backflow Testing

The Importance of Backflow Testing in California: Protecting Your Water Quality

What is Backflow?

Backflow, a phenomenon where the normal flow of water in pipes reverses due to pressure changes, poses a significant threat. It can allow contaminated water from ground sources, storage, or other piping systems to infiltrate the clean water supply. This can lead to a range of issues, from minor water quality degradation to severe health risks if harmful chemicals or bacteria enter the drinking water.

Regulatory Framework in California

In response to these risks, California's Plumbing Code (sections 602.2 and 603.4.2) mandates the installation of backflow prevention devices at critical points in the water system. These devices prevent contaminated water from reversing into the clean supply. Moreover, the law requires that these devices be tested by certified professionals at installation, after repairs or relocation, and at least annually.

The Testing Process

Backflow testing is a specialized procedure that requires the expertise of certified professionals. These professionals use gauges and other tools to measure pressure and flow direction, ensuring the prevention device activates appropriately when needed. If a device fails during testing, they are equipped to repair or replace it to maintain compliance and safety standards.

Why Regular Testing is Crucial

Regular testing is not just a legal requirement, it's a crucial step in protecting public health. It ensures that backflow preventers are functioning effectively, preventing water systems from being vulnerable to contamination. Moreover, it helps identify potential problems before they escalate into health risks or costly damages, providing property owners with peace of mind.

Benefits of Professional Backflow Testing Services

Choosing a professional service for backflow testing offers several advantages:

- Compliance with Regulations: We ensure that your system meets all local and state regulations, avoiding fines or legal issues.

- Expertise and Precision: As a Certified tester I bring a high level of expertise and precision to the process, ensuring that testing is done thoroughly and accurately. This guarantees that your water system is in the best possible hands, giving you confidence in the quality of the service.

- Convenience: Hiring us to handle all aspects of backflow testing, from scheduling to documentation, making compliance a hassle-free process for property owners. This ensures that you can focus on other important aspects of your property, knowing that your water system is in safe hands.

- Safety: When you bring me in to do regular testing it protects your water against potentially hazardous contaminants.

How to Schedule Your Backflow Testing

Scheduling backflow testing is simple, call us here at Standard Septic today at (805) 697-1516 or fill out the contact form on our site. To ensure continuous protection, it's advisable to plan tests annually or as specified by local regulations.

Backflow testing is critical to maintaining water safety and quality in California. Property owners can protect themselves, their families, or their businesses from the dangers of water contamination by complying with regulations and ensuring that backflow prevention devices are in optimal condition. Remember, clean water is not just a convenience but a necessity.

For more information on backflow testing or to schedule your service with me today just give us a call at (805) 697-1516 or fill out our contact form here on the website today. I will Ensure your peace of mind by taking the critical steps in maintaining your water system today.

Danielle Ralston 10/20/23 Danielle Ralston 10/20/23

Meet Joel Schwartz

In 2021 Joel began doing septic system designs on the side and by 2022 he felt ready to go out on his own. His experience working for the County has made him an expert at navigating the permitting process. His heart for service means he’ll be available to answer all your questions and will get you the right system for your needs at the best possible price. And his understanding of the science of Environmental Health means your septic system will protect you and the land around you.

Standard septic sets the standard for quality and service so you can focus on more glamorous parts of your project.

Joel Schwartz grew up on the eastern edge of LA County. Out there almost every tree is part of a landscape plan and all the ground is sod and concrete.

Like most of the kids he grew up with he didn’t have much of a plan but with his entrepreneurial spirit he felt like the American dream was open to him.

Joel graduated from UCLA into the Great Recession. Without any opportunities he moved back into his parents’ house in defeat. This became a time of Strenuous Stillness when all the effort in the world didn’t change the situation so all the power he had went into accepting that there wasn’t anything that could be done. When his mother suggested he volunteer to lead historic tours of El Pueblo de Los Angeles to fill his time and engage in his passion for California history, a spark of purpose was reignited.

Thats when Joel learned that purpose is more valuable than prosperity and service results in self sufficiency.
Along with the Pueblo, Joel did volunteer homeless outreach, then added helping gang members get their GED. One day Joel saw a homeless couple at Starbucks. He had learned a bit about how to help and offered what he knew. While at the Social Services office with the homeless man Joel learned about an open position. After a few years with Orange County Social Services, he transferred to Orange County Environmental Health where he did restaurant inspections in Newport Beach. In 2018 Joel took a position with Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Services. Seeing the strawberry fields lining the freeway and the hills dense with wild oaks he felt a connection to the landscape that was always missing in Southern California. Joel started in a position issuing septic system permits, and inspected landfills, but eventually becoming the senior inspector, plan checking and issuing permits for all construction of restaurants, food trucks, pools, and tattoo facilities from the Gaviota Pass to the border of San Luis Obispo County.

Standard septic sets the standard for quality and service so you can focus on more glamorous parts of your project.

Danielle Ralston 5/28/19 Danielle Ralston 5/28/19

What Is a Percolation Test and Why Do I Need One?

Percolation tests, often referred to as “perk tests” by the experts, can be a confusing term for those that are not familiar with the world of septic systems (i.e. most people). As a property owner the process of finding and purchasing a piece of land is already overwhelming, and the next step of designing and installing a septic system brings a host of high-cost variables and technical jargon that can cause considerable stress on a homeowner.

At Standard Septic, we seek to create confident customers by answering the most common questions posed by those we serve. In this article we are going to explain in laymen's terms what a percolation test is, why you need one, what you can expect to pay, and who is licensed to perform the test.

What Is A Percolation Test?

In the most basic terms: a percolation test is a measure of how quickly water drains through soil. Specifically, a perk test is performed to assess the absorption rate of soil in an area where a septic system installation has been proposed. Before any septic system can be installed in the ground, the soil's properties need to be evaluated to ensure proper waste management.

Properties like soil composition, drainage rate and presence of bedrock or groundwater all need to be taken into consideration when designing a septic system. A percolation test is the industry standard for collecting this information.

How is a Percolation Test Performed?

BC Engineering Group in Sonoma County, California has assembled an easy to understand description of how a percolation test is performed:

Locate soils that are suitable for septic development. This process includes reviewing soil test pits to evaluate the subsurface soils and conditions. The presence of groundwater or plastic soils, like clay, are typically considered limiting conditions.
Percolation test holes are installed at various depths depending on soil conditions observed.
Perforated pipes are installed into each percolation test hole and surrounded at the bottom of the pipe with 12” of pea gravel.
The percolation test holes are pre-soaked with water the day prior to the percolation test. This is to provide the soils with a typical level of saturation.
The day of the percolation test, which follows the day of pre-soaking per step #4, each pipe is filled with water to the pea gravel and the time of filling is recorded for each hole.
After one hour has passed, the water level is measured from the top of the pipe and recorded. This process is repeated for six hours; refilling the pipe to the pea gravel whenever the water level drops to within two inches from the bottom of the test hole. If a test hole runs dry after the first hour, refill to the pea gravel and take readings every ten minutes for two hours, also refilling the pipe to the pea gravel whenever the water level drops to within two inches from the bottom of the test hole.
Calculations for the percolation rate take place after the test is run. Divide the time intervals by the corresponding drop in water level to calculate the percolation rate in units of minutes per inch for each hole.

Although there are some differences in the soil composition and regulatory agencies of septic systems in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, the general principal is dedicated by the California Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Policy produced by the California Water Boards

Why Do I Need A Percolation Test?

A percolation test is a crucial component in the process of septic system design. You will not be able to install a septic system on your property without proof of successfully completing a percolation test. Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties both have dedicated agencies that are heavily involved in oversight of waste management, and will not issue a permit without passing a percolation test.

Although this might seem like unnecessary red tape that is holding up your project development, it's important to understand why you need this test. If the soil drains too quickly, the wastewater will not have time to break down properly before it escapes. And if this soil drains too slowly, it can cause your septic system to back up or wastewater to come up out of the ground. Both of these scenarios are disgusting and expensive.

Percolation tests are just as much about keeping the individuals on your property from becoming seriously ill as they are about being environmentally friendly.

Who Can Perform A Percolation Test?

The California On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems policy states:

“Qualified professional” means an individual licensed or certified by a State of California agency to design OWTS and practice as professionals for other associated reports, as allowed under their license or registration. Depending on the work to be performed and various licensing and registration requirements, this may include an individual who possesses a registered environmental health specialist certificate or is currently licensed as a professional engineer or professional geologist. For the purposes of performing site evaluations, Soil Scientists certified by the Soil Science Society of America are considered qualified professionals. A local agency may modify this definition as part of its Local Agency Management Program.

If you aren't one for deciphering legal code (who is?) here's a translation in standard English:

California OWTS policy authorizes the following professionals to perform perc tests:

Licensed Engineer
Licensed Geologist
Certified Soil Scientists
Registered Environmental Health Specialists (REHS)

It is important to note that variances in the OWTS can occur among municipalities. Standard Septic Design operates exclusively in northern Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. The only difference in adherence to state policy between these counties regarding percolation tests is that an REHS is only authorized to perform these tests in SLO, and not in Santa Barbara.

Although Standard Septic Design (operating with an REHS) cannot perform a perc test in the county of Santa Barbara, we partner with many local, reputable engineers and soil scientists to perform that service for you.

How Much Does A Percolation Test Cost?

When you're calling around and collecting quotes for perc tests there can be a wide range that is frustrating, not to mention confusing. This variance is due to the fact that septic system design and installation hinges on several dynamic factors.

Factors that can affect cost

Type of wastewater: Whether your property will be producing domestic, commercial, or industrial waste will affect the price of your test.
Number of holes required: Santa Barbara county requires a minimum of 3 holes, while San Luis Obispo requires a minimum of 4 holes.
Number of tests required: If your initial percolation tests fail, the customer will need to have the test performed again at a new site. Because these tests require 24 hours before results can be determined, failed tests will also incur the cost of equipment being brought back on another day.
Soil type: Lighter, sandier soils provide for easier excavation and therefore reduce time spent on the job.
Site Access: If there are no roads, or other factors limiting equipment access to the site, then there is an additional cost to create access.

Standard Septic's Pricing

Our price at Standard Septic for percolation tests starts at $2,000. This price includes:

Approximately half a day of heavy equipment use, which includes the operator's time
Two days of the testing technician's time
A preliminary site walk with the owner of Standard Septic, Joel Schwartz to assess the location, meet the property owner, and answer questions.

Our Commitment to You

We are a family owned business that strives to be transparent in our pricing because we know how valuable a family's time and money is. Even if you decided to have your perk test and septic design performed by another company, this article can help to arm you with the information needed to make the choice that is right for you.

Our site walk and assessment is always done free of charge, and is a great opportunity to talk one on one with the company's owner and get the opinion of an experienced Registered Environmental Health Specialist on how to proceed with your project.

We look forward to hearing from you. Reach out to us today for a free consultation!