Types of septic systems: Which one is right for you?
Choosing the right septic system is essential for long-term performance, compliance, and environmental protection.
Whether you’re building a new home or replacing a failing system, understanding your options ensures your investment is built to last. Below, we break down the most common septic system types used in Indiana and Michigan, including which situations they’re best suited for.
Septic system types we install:
Gravity flow septic systems
Simple and cost-effective
This traditional system uses gravity to move wastewater from the septic tank into a drain field for natural filtration—no pumps required.
Our traditional gravity flow septic systems use Infiltrator® chambers for efficient, low-maintenance wastewater treatment. Here’s how we do it:
Site evaluation: We check your soil, slope, and space to design a system that fits your property.
Custom design: Every system is built in-house for easy access and long-term performance.
Expert installation: We install level tanks and precisely graded trenches using top-quality chambers.
Best for:
Properties with good soil drainage and slope.
Benefits:
Low maintenance, energy-free operation.
Considerations:
Requires favorable site conditions.
Aerobic treatment units (ATUs)
Advanced wastewater treatment
ATUs use oxygen to help break down organic waste more efficiently than standard systems.
We specialize in Hydro-Action Aerobic Septic Systems—a top choice for properties with poor soil, high water tables, or limited space. These advanced systems use oxygen to break down waste more efficiently than traditional options, offering cleaner treatment and quicker processing.Site Evaluation: We check your soil, slope, and space to design a system that fits your property.
As certified Hydro-Action installers, we handle everything from site evaluation and design to permitting, installation, and final inspection. Our team ensures your system is installed to meet all state and manufacturer guidelines, delivering reliable, long-term performance.
Best for:
Properties with limited space, high water tables, poor soil, or stricter environmental rules.
Benefits:
Cleaner, eco-friendly, ideal for sensitive areas.
Considerations:
Requires power and routine maintenance.
Drip distribution systems
Efficient, low-impact wastewater dispersal
This system delivers treated effluent into the soil slowly through a network of drip tubing.
We will lead the install of your drip distribution systems with precision and care. After evaluating your property’s soil, slope, and space, we design a layout that ensures even, efficient dispersal of treated wastewater.
We carefully place drip tubing across the drain field, using filters and pressure-regulated dosing to prevent clogging and protect your landscape. Every system is engineered to meet local health codes, reduce environmental impact, and provide long-term performance—especially in areas where traditional drain fields won’t work.
Best for:
Rocky, shallow, or compacted soils.
Benefits:
Precise, space-saving, reduces environmental impact.
Considerations:
Must be combined with high-quality effluent (typically from ATUs).
Mound systems
Built for difficult soils
A raised sand and gravel mound provides extra filtration before effluent reaches native soil.
We understand that not every property is suited for a traditional septic system. That’s why we offer custom-designed Mound systems—the ideal choice for properties with high groundwater, shallow bedrock, or poor soil drainage.
Mound systems require expert planning and precise installation, and our experienced team handles every step—from soil testing and permitting to system design, installation, and final inspection. We build each system to meet local health codes and perform reliably for years to come.
Best for:
Sites with shallow bedrock, high groundwater, or poor soil drainage.
Benefits:
Highly adaptable.
Considerations:
More visible, requires regular upkeep.
Sand filter systems
Superior treatment for sensitive areas
This setup filters effluent through a bed of sand before final dispersal, adding an extra layer of purification.
Our mission is simple: to install the last septic system you’ll ever need. That’s why we specialize in advanced Recirculating Sand Filter (RSF) systems, including trusted technologies like Presby, Eljen, and Advanced Enviro-Septic.
These high-performance systems are designed for superior filtration, long-term durability, and environmentally safe operation—perfect for properties with poor soil, high water tables, or strict health department requirements.
Best for:
Sites near water sources or with strict health codes.
Benefits:
Excellent filtration, compact footprint.
Considerations:
Costlier to install and maintain.
Pressurized flood-dosed septic systems
Precision-engineered for challenging properties
This advanced system uses timed dosing and pressure to evenly distribute wastewater across the drain field, preventing oversaturation and extending system life.
We specialize in the expert installation of pressurized flood-dosed septic systems—a smart solution for properties with limited space, shallow soils, or uneven terrain.
These systems use timed dosing and pressure to evenly distribute wastewater across the entire drain field, helping to prevent oversaturation and extend system life. They’re ideal when a gravity system isn’t feasible.
Best for:
Small or sloped lots, shallow soils, and areas where gravity systems aren’t an option.
Benefits:
Reliable performance, flexible design, and extended drain field lifespan.
Considerations:
Requires professional design, installation, and periodic maintenance.
Upgrade any septic system with SludgeHammer®
One of Indiana’s most advanced eco-friendly systems
Whether you're installing a gravity, pressurized, mound, sand, or drip system, the SludgeHammer® Advanced Treatment Unit (ATU) is a powerful addition that enhances performance and extends system life.
This state-approved technology uses natural, aerobic bacteria to break down waste more efficiently—improving effluent quality, reducing environmental impact, and helping systems function better in challenging soil or limited-space conditions.
Mr. Septic is one of the few certified SludgeHammer® installers in Indiana, and we can integrate this advanced system into nearly any new or replacement install. If you're looking to future-proof your system and protect your property, ask us about adding SludgeHammer® to your design.
Best for:
Challenging soil conditions, environmentally sensitive zones, or homes requiring compact layouts.
Benefits:
Space-saving, sustainable, and highly effective.
Considerations:
Must be professionally installed and monitored.
Find the right septic system—with help from Mr. Septic
Not sure which type of septic system your property needs? Mr. Septic makes it simple. Our team will assess your soil, layout, and local code requirements to recommend the most efficient, reliable solution—whether it’s a standard gravity system or a state-approved advanced treatment unit.
We design and install custom septic systems across Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan, including South Bend, Elkhart, Mishawaka, Niles, and beyond.
Or call us at 574-855-8584