Tucson Alternative Septic Systems

In Pima County there are several cases in which you may not qualify for a conventional septic system. While there are many variables I am just going to give you the basics. Here are a few things that may disqualify you from a conventional septic system -

1. Ground has more than 50% rock
2. Ground is too sandy (believe it or not)
3. Ground is too hard not allowing profile holes of 10' to 12'
4. Ground percolates too slow

Like I said, I am making this pretty basic -- there could be other factors but these are the most common.

So, how do you know if you will need an alternative septic system? Well, during the "perk test" (percolation test) we will find out. The percolation test is performed with a licensed septic installer and a civil engineer. Soil profile holes are dug and the actual water test is performed. If the engineer determines that your land is not suitable for a conventional system you will get the bad news on the spot. If you need a perk test you can call 520-406-3871 the price is $875 and includes the actual test, the engineer fees and the written septic plan.

What is an alternative septic system and why is this bad news you might ask? Well, most people don't want to hear that their land will not percolate as the costs to install an alternative septic system will range from $11,000 to $15,000 on average - the engineering costs are about $1500-$2,000 depending on the design -that's the bad news.

Alternative septic systems work by taking the liquid from the septic system and distributing it up (evaporation), or laterally (using the top soil), or a combination of both. I will not go into any more details about these in this post, but you get the idea.

Remember that a perk test is very important if you are buying land near the foothills. You want to make sure that you do your own test. I have personally witnessed lots that have sold as "perking" by a Real Estate Agent, only to find out that some shallow holes were dug and stamped as "perking." Believe me, nobody is happy when they call a septic installer and find out that the lot fails.

Give me a call if you have any questions on this subject -- my number is 520-406-3871.

If you want to read a bit more about Alternative Septic Systems check out my page at http://www.tucsonsepticpumping.com