Mounded Systems Failures and Fixes


Before diving into repairs, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals of mounded septic systems. Unlike traditional septic systems where the leach field is buried underground, mounded systems involve the construction of an elevated mound of soil usually shipped in and spread above the ground level. This elevation helps to produce proper drainage and filtration of wastewater, preventing contamination of groundwater.


Several factors can lead to the deterioration or malfunctioning of mounded septic systems, including:

Soil Saturation: Over time, the soil within the mound can become saturated with wastewater, hindering proper drainage.
Compaction: Heavy machinery or other weight on the mound can cause soil compaction, reducing the mound’s permeability.
Root Intrusion: Tree roots can penetrate the mound, disrupting the piping system and impeding wastewater flow.
Pipe Damage: Corrosion or physical damage to pipes can lead to leaks or blockages, compromising the system’s efficiency.
Pump Failure: Mounded systems often rely on pumps to transport wastewater to the mound. Pump failure can result from electrical issues, mechanical wear, component failure or a myriad of other issues.
Steps for Mounded Septic System Repairs:
Effective repairs require a systematic approach tailored to the specific issues plaguing the mounded system. Here’s some of the steps we take to try to effectively repair your system.

Diagnostic Assessment: our experienced team of experts starts by conducting a thorough inspection of the system to identify the root cause of the problem. This usually involves visual inspection, soil testing, and assessment of pump and piping components.

Soil Remediation: Address soil saturation and compaction issues by aerating the mound and introducing amendments to improve permeability. This may include tilling the soil, adding organic matter, or installing drainage solutions.

Pipe Repair or Replacement: Repair or line jet any damaged, corroded or blocked pipes within the mound. In some cases, partial or complete pipe replacement may be necessary to restore functionality.

Pump Maintenance: our maintenance team can Inspect and service your septic pump regularly to ensure optimal performance. This includes checking electrical connections, and measuring pump performance to make sure your pump is working optimally.

Compliance with the states codes: we can ensure that all of our repairs comply with local regulations, and we can obtain any necessary permits before beginning with the work on your septic system.


To minimize the need for future repairs, we recommend, and can help you implement preventive maintenance measures such as:

Regular pumping and inspection of the septic tank to prevent sludge buildup.
Avoiding the disposal of harmful chemicals to your septic system.
Monitoring water usage and implementing smart usage of water to ensure maximum health of your system.
Periodic inspection of the mound systems components for signs of damage.

If you need help maintaining or repairing your Mounded septic system, please reach out so we can help you at the link below.

Contact – Florida Septic Design (floridasepticguru.com): Mounded Systems Failures and Fixes

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