Terminology
Technically, a “septic system” is only one of many types of “onsite wastewater systems”; however, we have found that the public is most comfortable using the term “septic system” to describe all types of systems.
This information is provided to help you better understand the industry terminology and designs of the many different options for treating sewage. This is not an exhaustive list, but it does cover the more common system types.
Much of the following information comes from National Small Flows Clearinghouse (NSFC) publications.
- Gravelless & Chamber Systems
- Mound Systems
- Intermittent Sand Filters
- Recirculating Sand Filters
- Trickling Sand Filters
- Low-Pressure Pipe Systems
- Constructed Wetlands or Lagoons
- Home Aerobic Systems
- Fine Bubble Aeration
- Evapotranspiration
- Composting Toilet Systems
- Ozone Disinfection
- Chlorine Disinfection
- Low-Flow Toilet
- Incinerating Toilet
Additional Technical Information
About the National Small Flows Clearinghouse
The NSFC helps America’s small communities and individuals solve their wastewater problems to protect public health and the environment.
Community leaders, as well as individual homeowners, can benefit from NSFC’s services. As a nonprofit organization, the NSFC provides objective information about onsite wastewater collection and treatment systems for communities of less than 10,000 people.
The NSFC is the only national resource of its type dealing with small community wastewater infrastructure.
Note: This information is intended to provide a better understanding of the functions of onsite wastewater treatment and the need for proper design, installation, and maintenance. Always consult a licensed professional or public health official with questions regarding engineering, installation, and servicing of onsite wastewater systems.
