FAQ

A Site Evaluator would visit your property and identify an acceptable location for a septic system.  This is done by digging test pits (mostly hand-dug) to determine soil suitability. During the design process the Site Evaluator is considering several factors such as cost, assuring proper state and local rule compliance, and siting the proposed system in a location that is aesthetically pleasing. Once a location is found, the septic site is located on the property. Then back at the office, the septic design or HHE-200 application is prepared from the field information. Once completed, the design is sent to the applicant so a permit can be obtained from the Town. The design is also needed to get accurate estimates on installation costs from local contractors.

That depends on existing soil & drainage conditions. High watertables and shallow to bedrock soil conditions can result in above-grade, or “mounded” systems.

A pump would be necessary if the existing on-site drainage conditions will not allow the disposal field to be low enough in elevation to provide pitch from the septic tank and/or building drain. Pumps are often used on "mounded" systems, unless the mounded system is located sufficiently downslope of a dwelling.

Every 2-4 years depending on use.

No. The State of Maine studied the effects of additives used in septic systems. They concluded that there were no proven benefit in using the additives. Waste from residential dwellings contain sufficient micro-organisms that naturally break down the solids in the septic tank without the use of additives. Products such as Rid-X do break down solids in the tank. However, after the solids break down, they move from the tank to the leach field where they may end up clogging the disposal field.

Yes, however precautions must be taken in the design to compensate for additional organic load. These precautions include items such as outlet filters that are located inside the septic tank or an extra septic tank.

The laundry drain can be separated into its own disposal field, but must meet the same criteria of a conventional system. A “drywell” is not a State approved alternative.

Yes with proper permitting. The size of the system is based on the number of bedrooms, not bathrooms. So adding a bathroom does not require a septic design.

Generally 2 to 5 days, depending on weather conditions, scheduled delivery of system components and Code Enforcement Officer’s Inspections.