Glendon BioFilter Septic Systems: What Are They?

If you’re dealing with challenging soil conditions or limited space on your property, you might be exploring alternative septic options. And that’s where Glendon BioFilter systems have come into the septic scene.

Maybe you’ve heard neighbors mention something about a ‘biofilter’ or wondered why some homes have different wastewater solutions than others. Glendon BioFiler systems are specifically made by the Glendon company and installed by their partnered contractors.

While we don’t install or service these particular systems at Puget Sound Septic, we want to help you understand all your options and make informed decisions about your property’s wastewater management. That’s why we’re here to share what we know about these innovative systems.

What is a Glendon BioFilter septic system?

A Glendon BioFilter is a special type of wastewater treatment system that uses sand and other natural materials to clean your household water before it returns to the environment.  Unlike other standard septic systems that rely on the soil to do the filtering, this type of system does most of the heavy lifting itself.

BioFilter systems are like a large concrete box filled with carefully layered sand and gravel. When wastewater from your home enters this system, it slowly trickles down through these layers. As it moves, beneficial bacteria living in the sand feast on the waste particles, breaking them down and cleaning the water. By the time the water reaches the bottom, it’s much cleaner and safer for the environment.

Why Some King County WA Properties Have One

Living in the Pacific Northwest comes with its own set of challenges for wastewater treatment. Maybe you’ve discovered your property has clay soil that doesn’t drain well, or perhaps you’re dealing with a high water table.

Glendon BioFilter systems are a solution for properties with these issues, along with shallow bedrocks, steep slopes, or small lots. A lot of soil in and around King County WA is shallow, which makes designing and installing traditional systems a bit of a challenge in comparison.

Considerations in Choosing a Glendon BioFilter System Over Other Septics

These systems come with advantages and things to consider carefully: 

• They’re effective at treating wastewater, often producing cleaner effluent than conventional systems.
• They can fit on smaller properties and work in challenging soil conditions that would rule out other options.
• They require electricity to run the pumps and timers, which means ongoing energy costs and the need for backup power during outages. 
• The initial installation cost is typically higher than a basic septic system, though this can be offset if it means you can build on a lot that otherwise wouldn’t work.
• Maintenance is another consideration. While all septic systems need regular care, Glendon BioFilters require periodic inspection of pumps, timers, and distribution systems. The sand may need replacement after many years of use, though with proper care, these systems can last for decades.

Puget Sound Septic Can Take Care of Your Current System

While Glendon BioFilter systems offer effective solutions for specific property challenges, we know most homes in our area rely on other types of septic systems.

That’s where Puget Sound Septic comes in. Whether you have a conventional gravity system, a pressure distribution setup, or an aerobic treatment unit, our team at Puget Sound Septic has the expertise to keep it running smoothly. We offer comprehensive services, from routine pumping and inspections to emergency repairs. Our technicians know the unique demands of King County WA soils and regulations, and we’re committed to protecting both your property and our local environment.

No matter what type of septic system you have, one thing remains constant: proper care keeps it working when you need it most. And when you need that care, Puget Sound Septic is just a phone call away. So reach out to our team today to get started with a system inspection.