Septic System has pipes that are open at the end? What is this?

Question

We are looking at an old trailer in a lake area to buy. In the backyard there is a pipe that goes down the yard and then has another pipe attaching to it so that it makes the top of a T. The ends of the top of the "T" are open. The owners say that clear water drains out of it. Is this normal? Is this a good system? Is this a defunct system that would not pass inspection these days? What are we dealing with? Also, how long can a septic system not be used and still be okay?

Answer 1

Leach lines should be below the ground. Not above. I suspect that there is a problem with the septic tank or under ground leach lines. I would have this check into before purchase or have them knock the sale price by the amount of having the septic system rebuilt or repaired.

Answer 2

Odd that you can see the ends of the pipe, they should be underground. If these pipes are on the surface then this is a problem in itself. This sounds like a home-built, non-standard drainage system, and most likely should be replaced. About the only time you would see water coming from the ends of septic drain lines is when the perforations in the drain lines are clogged. If this is the case then you can count on havingg to rip out the entire thing and put in a new system. If the town gets involved you are looking at an expense anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 to replace the system.

Answer 3

Instead of a leech field the pipes go to the open air. This is not Hoyle and would not pass a county inspection anywhere. I'm surprised the county hasn't shut it down and made this party build an up to date system.

It's O.K. if you want to buy the place but, find out what the county regs are, let them know whats up with the septic and find out what the cost would be to rebuild. Then make a deal with the owner, he has to deal, he has no choice.

Answer 4

Those are the leach lines. A septic tank catches the debris in it and sends the rest of the water to a sewer system normally. If this property isn't near a sewer system that is probably what they are doing with the waste water. It may also be some sort of french drain running water from around your foundation so your house won't collapse from ground erosion. Check with the local building dept. for more details on it, they should have record of it.

Answer 5

Keep it clean: Add yeast RidX type product every 30 days; when flushing is at a minimum. Try not to put any paper products in the septic system. Laundry: Clogged Leach Bed lines may be to blame. Soften your water with a Borax product (20 Mule Team) in your laundry to help clean your pipes. Only use liquid laundry products. All Powders have paper products in them. It's very important to maintain your pipes and your field. This should greatly reduce any odors you may encounter.

Answer 6

I think you have a very substandard septic system that will probably have to be replaced if you buy this property.