Abstract: A liquid retention system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention comprises a plurality of pipes having a wall defining a pipe conduit, at least some of the pipes having at least one hole through the wall for allowing liquid to enter the conduit. Each of two sets of pipe groups is arranged into a two layers of the pipes. The pipes in one layer are arranged in adjacent proximity along their lengths such that the walls of adjacent pipes define a plurality of gaps while the pipes in the second layer are at least partially seated in the gaps. The cylindrical axes of the pipes in the two pipe groups relative to one another are non-parallel. The pipe groups are arranged in a liquid retention portion, which is at least partially enclosed to retain liquid therein.

Abstract: An embodiment of a water retention and distribution system for use in an underground installation comprises at least one layer of at least one pipe with at least one hole therein. The at least one layer may be fluidly connected to a water source and a means for distribution. A water impermeable cover encloses the at least one layer. Water in the at least one layer may be distributed into the ground through a vertical pipe that includes a divider that separates the vertical pipe into first and second halves for controlling the flow of water into the means for distribution.

Abstract: A drain field assembly includes a distribution pipe for receiving liquid effluent that has a plurality of holes through the wall. A plurality of generally cylindrical void pipes receive effluent from the distribution pipe, retaining the effluent for a time, and distributing the effluent to an area of soil. The void pipes are positioned in a trench atop one another so that the cylindrical axis of a bottom void pipe is substantially vertically aligned with the cylindrical axis of a top void pipe, and the cylindrical axis of a middle void pipe is offset from those of the bottom and top void pipes. A distribution pipe is positioned within the top void pipe. In some embodiments a second distribution pipe can be positioned atop the top void pipe. A protective soil-impervious, liquid-permeable sheeting is placed atop and beneath the assembly for protecting the holes pipes from intrusion by soil.

Abstract: A passive drain field assembly reduces nitrogen in wastewater by facilitating nitrification and denitrification. A first chamber receives effluent into a multi-pipe bundle. An air vent is provided that extends from the atmosphere into the first chamber. A second chamber receives effluent from the first chamber, and contains a medium, beneath which is positioned a drainage pipe for releasing treated effluent into the soil therebeneath. A berm creates a retention area in the second chamber that is lined with a water-impermeable liner. In use, ammonia present in the effluent is converted to nitrate in the presence of the oxygen admitted by the air vent in the first chamber. The liquid retained upstream of the berm and above the liner undergoes anaerobic reactions. The remaining liquid proceeds to a place in the second chamber from which the drainage pipe can be entered, from which the treated wastewater can enter the soil.

Abstract: A universal septic tank fitting useful as either an inlet sweep or an outlet tee includes a generally tubular member having first and second open ends with a portion of the tubular member adjacent the first end forming an angular bend so that the first end extends generally normal to the member. A tube adjacent the second end extends from the tubular member and in a direction generally opposite to the direction of the first end. A vent is provided along the outer periphery of the angular bend, and a removable closure over the vent is provided. In use, the first end is installed in the inlet wall of a septic tank elevated above the second end, and the closure is removed from over the vent. The same fitting may be used as an outlet tee by installing the extremity of the tube through the outlet wall of the septic tank, elevated with respect to the first end.