Glendon Pods Septic System
A Glendon Pods system is a unique septic solution that uses specially designed pods filled with sand for advanced filtration. These systems provide reliable treatment even in challenging soil conditions, ensuring wastewater is clean before reaching the water table.
Glendon Pods at McNair Septic
Glendon pods are a very unique type of septic system. They consist of a septic tank, a pump tank and the actual pods. The pump chamber can be incorporated into the septic tank, but is more commonly found in its own second tank. The septic tank must be placed accordingly so that it is downhill from the home/building’s plumbing. A bio-microbial process in the septic tank treats the waste before it reaches the pump chamber. Further settling occurs in the pump chamber, ensuring that the pump does not send solid material to the pods.
The pump chamber contains two floats: a low level/off float (lower) and a high-water alarm float (higher). Time dosing is set upon installation. The system will turn the pump on a set number of times each day for a set amount of time. If the system pumps too much effluent out of the pump chamber, the low level/off float will turn the pump off automatically until its next dose time. If the effluent level in the pump chamber rises too high between doses, the high-water alarm float will trigger an alarm which indicates that something is wrong with the system or that dose times need to be adjusted to occur more frequently. Time dosing protects the pods from flooding, which reduces the effectiveness of the filtration processes.
The pump transports effluent to the pods. There, a splitter evenly distributes the effluent between the pods. The system must use a pump even if gravity flow can be achieved from the pump chamber to the pods. This is to ensure that the flow splitter is pressurized so all of the pods receive the same amount of effluent. The effluent is then transported to the bottom of a water-tight basin inside each pod. These basins are filled with different types of sand, each with different filtration qualities. As the basins fill with effluent, the effluent seeps up through the sand and escapes over the edge of the basins. There, more sand filters the effluent before it reaches ground level and soaks into the soil. It is clean before it reaches the water table.
A Glendon system should have an operation and maintenance inspection done twice every year. Concurring reports may need to be turned in to the county. Further, inspections may be required at various points during the installation of the system.
The most basic Glendon pods are about 18 feet by 15 feet. The number of pods will be dependent on system size. Septic systems are sized according to the amount of waste they will be treating, usually estimated by the number of bedrooms in the home. For non-residential buildings, water usage usually determines the size.
Upon installation, grass can be grown on the pods. A splitter lid and 24-inch riser lids above the tanks will all be visible after installation. Each of these lids will be flush with the final grade and can be walked on, mowed over or disguised to lessen noticeability. Four-inch monitoring ports will be visible on top of each pod.
Pods should be treated as fragile to increase their longevity. Animals should not be allowed on pods and vehicles should not be driven over them. Vegetation with intrusive roots should not be planted near them. Finally, a home owner should be mindful of what is going into the system.
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FAQs About Glendon Pods Septic Systems
What makes Glendon Pods different from other septic systems?
Glendon Pods use sealed basins filled with different layers of sand that filter effluent as it rises and flows out, providing advanced treatment beyond standard drainfields.
Do Glendon Pods require electricity to run?
Yes. Like many advanced systems, they require a pump to distribute effluent evenly through the pods, even if gravity flow could work.
How often do Glendon Pods need maintenance?
They should be inspected and maintained twice a year, with reports often required by the county.
How much space do Glendon Pods take up?
A basic pod measures around 18 feet by 15 feet, but the number of pods depends on the home’s size or water usage.
What precautions should I take with a Glendon Pod system?
Pods should be treated as fragile—keep vehicles, livestock, and deep-rooted plants away from them, and be mindful of what goes into your septic system.
The Process
Planning
All we need is your parcel number or address to begin. We research your property in advance, gather details about your future plans, and may schedule a site visit or call. Any questions are addressed quickly to keep the process moving.
Soils Evaluation
Most projects start with a soil evaluation (perc test), the first step toward system approval. We handle everything—from digging and testing to county applications, fees, and paperwork—while keeping you updated every step of the way.
On-Site Septic System Design
After completing the soil evaluation, we quickly create a detailed, cost-effective septic design, typically within one to two weeks, that includes all calculations, maps, and specifications, while handling every detail of the submittal process for you.
Review and Permitting
Most counties allow up to three weeks to review septic designs and soil evaluations, though some return them sooner. Once approved, we’ll send you a copy and can also forward it to licensed installers so you can receive system bids.
Taking Care of You
We handle everything—even the required county as-built map—so your septic system is approved and recorded. With no complex contracts, we start right away and keep things moving. Consultations are always free, so call us anytime.
Support
We can assist you in finding reputable septic installation and maintenance companies that can service and maintain your new system.
