soil treatment rehab
Rehabilitating or Refurbishing leach fields
Rehabilitating a septic system in Arizona is permitted only when it meets applicable code requirements. When allowable, rehabilitation can provide substantial cost savings and environmental benefits compared to a full system replacement, provided that excavation remains limited and does not exceed regulatory thresholds.
- Cost-Effectiveness:
The most significant advantage is financial savings. Minor issues like clogs, partial drain field blockages or collapsed pipes, can often be addressed with rehabilitation methods (e.g., jetting, soil aeration, or approved pipe repairs) for a fraction of the cost of a full replacement, which can range from $14,000 to $25,000 or more in Arizona.
- Minimal Disruption:
Rehabilitation methods are generally less invasive than replacement. They avoid extensive digging up of the yard and landscaping, making it a quicker and cleaner process.
- Extended System Lifespan:
Addressing problems early can significantly improve the system's efficiency and add years to its operational life. Preventative maintenance is always the best tool against major system failures.
- Environmental Protection:
A properly functioning system, whether repaired or new, effectively removes pollutants, bacteria, and viruses from household wastewater before it enters the soil and potentially contaminates local groundwater sources.
- Increased Property Value:
A fully functional and well-maintained septic system is a major asset when selling a home. Rehabbing it ensures it's up to code and removes a significant deterrent for potential buyers.
- Regulatory Compliance:
In Arizona, homeowners are responsible for maintaining their systems by law. Rehabilitation helps meet state and county health department standards and can prevent fines associated with a failing system.
to properly inspect a leach field - the distribution box mus
Inspecting the Distribution box
- Access and Exposure
The Distribution box must be uncovered and fully exposed to allow a complete visual inspection of the interior and exterior structure. - Structural Assessment
Inspect the box for cracks, deterioration, displaced walls, settling, or signs of collapse. Confirm that the lid is intact and properly sealed. - Flow Evaluation
Observe how effluent enters and exits the D-box. Flow should be level and evenly distributed to all active lateral lines. Any signs of uneven flow, backups, or pooling, indicate a problem. - Levelness and Alignment
Confirm the D-box is level. Even minor settling can cause one lateral line to receive too much, or too little effluent, leading to premature failure of the soil treatment area. - Inspection of Inlet and Outlet Lines
Check for blockages, sludge buildup, root intrusion, pipe damage, or misaligned connections. - Condition of Laterals
Ensure all connected laterals are receiving flow (unless intentionally capped). Look for evidence of clogged or collapsed laterals. - Hydraulic Load Check (if applicable)
Some evaluations include running water into the system to observe live flow and confirm proper distribution under load. - Documentation
Record findings, take photos, and note any corrective actions needed, such as cleaning, leveling, replacing the box, or repairing lines.
When Rehabilitation Makes Sense - check list
Tank must be functional
- The septic tank was evaluated and found to be structurally sound.
- Has no observable cracks, failures, or significant deterioration.
- The tank capacity is also appropriate for the property’s occupancy and wastewater demand.
Soil Treatment/Leach fields are functional
- The gravel within the soil treatment area is functioning as intended, demonstrating proper percolation with no indications of saturation.
- Current findings suggest the issue is localized in nature and may be attributable to a clogged pipe, a compromised or damaged line, or a collapsed distribution box.
- Additionally, the presence of sludge or accumulated waste within the piping network may be contributing to the reduced performance.
The Soil Treatment relatively new
- Septic systems that are 20 to 30 years old are at a significantly increased risk of failure due to the natural lifespan limitations of the soil treatment area.
- Most septic systems are designed with an expected operational lifespan of approximately 20 to 30 years under normal conditions.
- Performance issues may also arise from improper use, such as flushing inappropriate materials or excessive water usage, which can accelerate system degradation.
It is time to proceed with rehabilitation
If the functioning components of a system are operational:
If a licensed professional determines that the primary, load-bearing structural components—specifically the septic tank itself and the functioning parts of the soil treatment area—are intact, then rehabilitation becomes a viable and often preferable option. The tank can have repairs, the distribution box can be replaced and the soil treatment repaired all without the need of permits, inspections or completly destroying the property.
