Understanding Different Types of Septic Systems in Georgia: Gravity vs. Pump vs. Pressure Dosing

Choosing the right septic system for your Georgia property isn’t just a technical decision, it’s a land decision. As a company rooted in excavation, grading, and licensed septic installation across Middle Georgia, Area Solutions has installed every major system type on the market. And over the years, we’ve learned one thing clearly:

Your land determines the system, not the other way around.

Here’s a clear and simple breakdown of the most common types of septic systems in Georgia, how they work, and when each one is needed.

1. Gravity Septic Systems

A gravity system is the most traditional and widely used septic design. Wastewater flows naturally from the home → into the septic tank → out to the drain field without mechanical pumps.

Best For

• Properties with a natural downhill slope

• Loamy, well-draining soil

• Larger yard spaces that support a standard drain field

  
  

Limitations

• Performs poorly in clay-heavy soils

• Not ideal for flat lots

• Requires adequate soil depth above groundwater

  
  

At Area Solutions, we install gravity systems when conditions are right because they’re simple, reliable, and cost-effective, but only when the land supports it.

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2. Pump (Lift) Septic Systems

When gravity can’t move wastewater on its own, a pump system steps in. These systems use an electric pump to move effluent from the tank to the drain field.

Best For

• Flat properties with no natural fall

• When the drain field must be placed uphill

• Sites where the tank and field cannot align with gravity

  
  

Limitations

• Requires consistent power

• More maintenance than gravity systems

• Pump issues can lead to backups

  
  

Because Area Solutions handles excavation and layout planning in-house, we design pump systems that fit the land while preserving efficiency and safety.

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3. Pressure Dosing Septic Systems

Pressure dosing systems use a pump to send wastewater through pressurized lines, distributing it evenly across the drain field. This is essential for Georgia properties with restrictive soil conditions.

Best For

• Clay-rich Georgia soils

• Shallow soil depth

• Lots requiring controlled effluent dispersal

• Sites where uneven soil absorption could lead to failure

  
  

Many counties in Middle Georgia, especially Baldwin County, recommend or require pressure dosing when the native soil doesn’t drain consistently. Our team designs these systems to prevent oversaturation and extend system life.

4. When Alternative Systems Are Needed (ATUs & More)

Some Georgia properties cannot support standard systems due to tough soil, small lot size, or high groundwater. In these cases, Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) or other advanced systems may be required.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)

These systems add oxygen to break down waste more effectively, producing cleaner effluent.

Best For:

• High-clay soil

• Areas near water wells, lakes, or streams

• High water table locations

• Small or restricted properties

  
  

As licensed installers in both Georgia and South Carolina, we regularly install ATUs where county regulations require higher treatment levels.

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Other alternatives include mound systems, media filters, and drip irrigation systems, each chosen based on soil evaluation.

5. Quick Guide: Which System Fits Your Property?

Property Condition	Recommended System
Good slope + loamy soil	Gravity
Flat lot or uphill drain field	Pump
Clay soils or uneven drainage	Pressure dosing
High water table / near water sources	ATU or alternative

Why Homeowners Trust Area Solutions With Any Type Of Septic System In Georgia

Septic systems don’t start with plumbing, they start with the land. With more than 40 years of combined experience between Owen Skelly and Steve Renfroe, Area Solutions has the excavation, grading, and soil expertise to choose and install the right system the first time.

We are: 

✔ State licensed septic installers in Georgia & South Carolina 

✔ Certified through the Georgia Soil & Water Conservation Commission 

✔ Fully insured 

✔ Deeply experienced with Middle Georgia’s unique soil types 

✔ A family-run business serving the community with integrity

Every system we install is designed for safety, longevity, and land protection.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of septic systems in Georgia helps you make the right choice for your property. Soil type, elevation, and groundwater levels all play a part, and that’s why professional guidance matters.

If you need help choosing the right system, Area Solutions can handle site preparation, recommend the correct design, and handle installation from start to finish.

Need a septic installation you can depend on?

Contact Area Solutions, your local, licensed septic specialists.