A Few Things You Need to Know About Pools and Septic Systems In Lake Norman
Owning a home with a pool in the beautiful Lake Norman area is a dream come true for many. With gorgeous summers and mild fall temperatures, it’s no wonder many homeowners want to add a pool to their new construction plans. However, for homes with a septic system, choosing the location for your pool takes careful consideration, expert knowledge, and diligent planning. Here are a few things everyone should know about pools and septic systems in Lake Norman.
The Type of Septic System Matters
Understanding which type of septic system you have is an essential first step in the pool-planning process. Almost all the systems in our area are conventional systems or chambered systems. Other systems are used throughout the state but are much more costly than the conventional and chambered systems.
A chambered septic system is a modern and efficient variation of traditional septic systems. Instead of using a conventional leach field, a chambered system employs lightweight plastic chambers buried underground. These chambers create a network of voids for wastewater to percolate and be naturally filtered into the soil. The design enhances the overall efficiency of the septic system by maximizing the contact between effluent and soil, promoting better treatment and drainage.
A conventional septic system is a popular onsite wastewater treatment method for residential properties not connected to municipal sewage systems around Lake Norman. It consists of a septic tank and a drain field. In the septic tank, solids settle to the bottom, and bacteria break them down into liquid and gas. The clarified effluent then flows to the drain field, a series of perforated pipes or trenches buried in the soil. The soil filters and further treats the effluent before it returns to the groundwater.
Consider The Repair Area That’s Needed
One of the biggest things we see agents often overlook is the need for a repair area on the property. The photo below is a great example that shows why this home couldn’t have a pool. Yes, there is so much area outside of the septic field, but you need to consider the repair area and how much space that leaves for the actual pool.
In a conventional septic system, the repair area is where the soil is reserved in case the original drain field fails. If problems arise, such as a drain field becoming saturated or clogged, the repair area may involve identifying and addressing these problems.
You’ll Need Expert Guidance
A soil scientist or soil engineer can often modify the system to accommodate a pool, an addition, or other feature, but once the system is marked and the survey is done, it's easier to know for sure.
In our area, systems have been drawn and submitted to the county, which is available to the public health department. The drawings are often inaccurate and are not an excellent source for determining if a pool or addition could be done. If you are purchasing a home and considering installing a pool, you’ll need to know the exact location of the septic system to begin the planning process. If you are unsure of the exact location of the septic system please have a NC licensed installer or a NC septic inspector locate the septic system for you.
You’ll Need Expert Guidance
At Nagy Properties, we understand the unique considerations and complexities that come along with adding a pool to your new Lake Norman home. We understand how private waste treatment/septic systems influence your usage and how private wells work. If you are looking to purchase a lakefront home or home with a pool in the Lake
Norman area, give our team a call today.
Photo credit: NC State Extension Publications