Disposal field repair and replacement
When the leach field stops taking water, the whole system backs up. Here's what repair looks like here.
The disposal field, also called a leach field or drainfield, is where liquid from the tank soaks into the soil and gets treated. When it clogs, or the soil beneath it can't accept more water, wastewater comes to the surface or backs up into the house.
Signs of a failing field
- Wet or spongy ground over the field when it hasn't rained
- Sewage odor outdoors
- A strip of grass or weeds noticeably greener than the rest of the yard
- Backups that come back soon after pumping
Why fields fail here
Solids escaping a neglected tank are the most common cause anywhere. Locally, shallow soil over caliche or rock gives wastewater less room to spread and be treated. The University of Arizona's soil survey describes Chino Valley's caliche as semi-impervious, and in parts of the valley it creates a perched water table. Monsoon storms can also drown a field that's already marginal.
What are the options?
- Repairing lines or the distribution box when only part of the field is affected
- Replacing or extending the field in suitable soil on the lot
- An alternative treatment system where soil depth, rock or setbacks rule out a conventional field
Under ADEQ's general permits, the system designer picks treatment components based on the site-limiting conditions found during the site investigation. A replacement field or a change of system type generally needs a permit through Yavapai County Development Services.
Protect the new field
Keep vehicles, trailers and corrals off it, steer roof runoff and driveway drainage away from it, and keep the tank on a pumping schedule so solids never reach it.
The septic company prices the job after learning about your system and, for repairs or new installs, seeing the site. We don't quote prices, and any figure given over the phone is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can a leach field be fixed, or does it need replacing?
It depends on the cause. A crushed line or bad distribution box can be repaired. A field that's clogged throughout usually has to be replaced or relocated.
Why might my lot need an alternative system?
Shallow soil, caliche, rock or a well too close by can rule out a conventional field. The site investigation shows what the lot can support.
Related services
More background: Yavapai County septic guide.
Selling a house on septic, or drains backing up?
Call now and a local septic company will help you sort out what's needed.