How to Choose the Right Septic System

When installing a septic system, one of the first decisions to make is whether to go with a gravity flow system or a pressure distribution system. Both have their advantages, but your property’s layout, soil condition and rainfall patterns will help determine which one is right for you. Here are some things to consider before making your choice:

Gravity flow
A gravity flow system relies on natural downward flow to move wastewater from the septic tank into the leach field. It’s a simple and affordable option, but it’s highly dependent on the slope of your land and soil saturation. In areas with heavy rainfall or poor drainage, gravity flow systems can struggle—especially when the leach lines become oversaturated, which can lead to backups.

Pressure distribution
A pressure distribution system uses a pump to actively push wastewater through the system. This design helps ensure consistent performance (even during wet weather) and provides more control over how wastewater is dispersed. Because it doesn’t rely on gravity alone, it can be installed on a wider variety of terrains and offers more reliability in areas prone to flooding or where space is limited.