Case Study: M5.2 Units Used on Lakeside System

Problem:  Homeowners on Sugden Reservoir in Spencer, Massachusetts, were preparing to sell their year-round lakeside residence.  As a selling point, they wanted to replace a mature septic system before putting the house on the market.  However, the site had multiple constraints, including limited access to the backyard and setback requirements to the lake, which limited space for a new system.  Additionally, the aging septic tank needed to be replaced.

Solution:  Gobi Land Engineering designed a 330 GPD system for the three-bedroom home using 24 M5.2 units.  The plan design used gravity distribution, and allowed the project to obtain a waiver for setback distances.  Gary Pike Construction removed the existing system and then installed three rows of eight of the M5.2 units.  Installers were able to fit an excavator in the restricted backyard, complicated by the slope leading down to the reservoir, to dig the bed and lay down 6 inches of ASTM C33 sand.  The lightweight units were hand-carried into position before being back filled with ASTM C33 sand and clean fill.  Eljen Corporation provided on site training, and the drainfield was installed in a matter of hours.

Result:  The homeowners were able to get the new, Title 5 code compliant system installed quickly, with time to enjoy the summer months on the lake before selling the property.

As seen in September 2016 Onsite Installer