Geosynthetic aggregate replaces traditional drainfields

Problem

A homeowner on Madeline Island, Wis., needed to replace an old lakeside dry well and was challenged to find a drainfield system that would meet the state surface water protection regulations. The island location made environmental factors and delivery of construction materials critical.

Solution

After a study of options to meet setbacks and other rules, the system designer recommended EZflow by Infiltrator engineered synthetic aggregate for its light weight and ease of delivery by ferry and its cost relative to gravel. The Madeline Island system handles 450 gpd. The installer kept the existing 1,000-gallon concrete septic tank, adding a filter system to treat effluent before discharge. A 500-gallon pump tank pumps wastewater to the septic tank and a distribution box evenly splits the flow from the septic tank to two 65-foot runs of drainfield bundles.

Result

"The whole installation was completed in a day using a single backhoe," says installer and master plumber Adrien Cady of Washburn. 800/221-4436; www.infiltratorsystems.com

Bioremediation saves drainfield

Problem

After finding effluent ponding at the end of the drainfield, a homeowner called Chris Lanou of ADC Septic in Blackstone, Mass. The customer requested minimal disturbance of the extensively landscaped property.

Solution

Lanou pumped the septic tank, jetted the drainfield laterals, and treated the system with Septic Kit from Lenzyme. The kit includes two oxidizers, one drainfield biological activator, and a two-year supply of monthly treatments. Lanou added the oxidizers to the drainfield to restore biological balance, and the biological activator to the septic tank. He told the customer to flush a treatment packet once a month.

Result

A month later, the ponding had dried up and the system was working as designed. 800/223-3083; www.lenzyme.com