Guide
Aerobic vs. Conventional Septic
For anyone buying land or planning a home in the Hill Country, this decision has the greatest effect on the septic budget. Here is how the two systems compare.
Side-By-Side Comparison
| Conventional | Aerobic | |
|---|---|---|
| How it treats water | Settling tank, then the soil completes treatment | Air and bacteria treat the water in the tank, then it is disinfected |
| Where the water goes | Buried drainfield | Drip lines or spray heads in the yard |
| Soil needed | Adequate depth of suitable soil | Works on thin soil over rock |
| Electricity | None (unless the field is pumped) | Air pump and effluent pump |
| Chlorine | No | Yes, for spray and drip |
| Maintenance contract | No | Required in Texas |
| Install cost | Lower | Higher |
| Common near Canyon Lake? | Less common | The usual design |
The Site Usually Decides
Many people are surprised to learn that system type is rarely a matter of preference. The site evaluation measures how deep the soil is, what kind of soil it is and what lies beneath it. If there is not enough suitable soil above rock, a conventional drainfield cannot treat the water properly, and the design will call for an aerobic system.
Around Canyon Lake, Spring Branch and much of Bulverde, thin soil over limestone is the norm, which is why aerobic systems are so common in the area. Toward New Braunfels and on some Blanco County tracts, deeper soils make conventional systems possible more often.
The Case for Conventional
If your lot qualifies, a conventional system is simpler to own. There is no equipment to power, no chlorine to refill and no maintenance contract. With the tank pumped every few years and vehicles kept off the field, it can last for decades.
The Case for Aerobic
An aerobic system makes building possible on difficult ground. The water it discharges is much cleaner, which is why it can be dispersed on or just below the surface. With a drip field, the system is out of sight. The trade-off is upkeep: a maintenance contract, chlorine tablets and a modest amount of electricity.
If You Are Buying Land
- Ask the seller whether a site evaluation has been done. If not, consider having one done before closing.
- Look at nearby homes. If neighboring properties have spray heads or green risers in the yard, expect an aerobic system.
- Check whether the lot is over the Edwards Aquifer recharge or contributing zone.
- Consider where the field will go relative to the planned house, pool and driveway.
- Contact us. We are glad to review a lot with you before you buy it.
Free Quote
Start Your Septic Project with a Free Quote
Send us the property address and a few details about your project. We will review the site, explain what the county is likely to require, and provide a clear, itemized quote.
- (830) 822-4628Mon–Fri, 7am–6pm
- 8053 FM 2722, New Braunfels, TX 78132Serving Canyon Lake, New Braunfels, Bulverde, Spring Branch, Boerne, San Antonio & Blanco