Septic Alternative Systems
Helping You
Experience The Freedom Of A Stand-Alone
Septic Alternative System - On or Off Grid
Helping You
Experience the Freedom of a Stand-Alone
Septic Alternative System - On or Off Grid
Septic Alternative Systems Guide
The Droilet™ is a Superior Septic Alternative System
The Droilet™ is the world’s first patented stand-alone Septic Alternative System. Unlike other BAT (Best Available Technologies), the Droilet™ adds an isolation and pasteurization treatment process.
- The only septic alternative system suitable for off grid
- No excavation or external treatment tanks required
- The treated end product meets EPA standards for Class A biosolids
- No water is required for operation and allows less nitrogen or other harmful things into groundwater
- Treats gases using an Organic Air Filter
- Can connect to a gray water system
Compare the Droilet to other Septic Alternative Systems
Your options are limited when you want to build in a location inaccessible to a standard septic system. The six most common alternative septic systems all need excavation and external treatment tanks except the Droilet™ system.
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) provides illustrations and descriptions of the most common Septic Alternative Systems used. The following comparison contains excerpts and illustrations from the EPA webpage located at https://www.epa.gov/septic/types-septic-systems.
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Aerobic Treatment Unit
Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) use many of the same processes as a municipal sewage plant, but on a smaller scale. An aerobic system injects air into the treatment tank. The additional oxygen increases natural bacterial activity within the system. Some aerobic systems may also have a pretreatment tank and a final treatment tank including disinfection to further reduce pathogen levels. Standard ATUs can be used on small lots, inadequate soil conditions or areas with high water tables. Regular life-time maintenance should be expected for ATUs.
The Droilet™ Aerobic Treatment Unit
The Droilet™ ATU uses many of the same processes as other septic alternatives but is micro-engineered to fit in a typical toilet footprint making it a stand-alone unit that does not require an external treatment tank. No excavation is required, and no trees need to be removed. Therefore, the Droilet has no impact on the surrounding landscape. Installation costs are minimal compared to other septic alternative systems. The Droilet™ ATU has an output tray that must be emptied on a regular basis and needs battery, solar or electrical hookup for operation.
Drip Distribution System
The drip distribution system is a type of effluent dispersal that needs no large mound of soil, and the drip laterals are inserted into the top 6 to 12 inches of soil. The disadvantage of the drip distribution system is that it requires a large dose tank after the septic tank to accommodate the timed dose delivery of wastewater to the drip absorption area. Additional components, such as electrical power, are necessary for this system, requiring an added expense and increased maintenance.
Mound Systems
Mound systems are an option in areas of shallow soil depth, high groundwater, or shallow bedrock. The constructed sand mound contains a drain field trench. Mound systems incorporate a constructed sand mound containing a drain field trench, and they require periodic maintenance. While mound systems can be a good solution for certain soil conditions, they require a substantial amount of space and periodic maintenance.
Recirculating Sand Filter System
Sand filter systems can be constructed above or below ground. Effluent flows from the septic tank to a pump chamber. It is then pumped to the sand filter.
Sand filters are good for sites with high water tables or that are close to water bodies, but they are more expensive than a conventional septic system. They are more expensive than a typical septic system.
Evapotranspiration System
After the effluent enters the drain field, it evaporates into the air. Unlike other septic system designs, the effluent never filters to the soil and never reaches groundwater. Evapotranspiration systems are only useful in specific environmental conditions. This system works well in shallow soil; however, it is at risk of failure with excessive rain or snow.
Constructed Wetland System
A constructed wetland mimics the treatment processes that occur in natural wetlands. The wastewater passes through gravel and sand and is treated by microbes, plants, and other media that remove pathogens and nutrients before being distributed to the soil for further treatment. One drawback is that the wetland plants must be able to survive in a perpetual saturated environment.
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Landscape alteration challenges
Every septic alternative system except the Droilet™ Aerobic Treatment Unit requires alteration of landscape. Anytime excavation or tree cutting is necessary, especially near a waterway like a stream, you have to follow state and local regulations. Aira Corp provides planning and permitting consultation to help navigate these challenges. These challenges are significantly reduced by choosing the Droilet™ ATU as your sanitation system.