Most all septic systems, large all small work in a very similar way. Today though, I will focus on domestic size septic systems.
I hope this short guide to how septic systems work will give you a better understanding of your septic tank system. And the processes that make these simple but effective systems one of the best, most environmentally friendly ways to manage liquid and bio waste on your property. .
A Septic Tank System (or Septic System) is a wastewater treatment process that is widely used in both rural and suburban areas.
A Septic System is designed to treat and dispose of household wastewater in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
Most septic systems consist of three main components, there are
- The septic tank
- The drain field
- And the soil beneath the drain field
The septic tank is a large, underground tank that receives and holds all the wastewater from the home. It is typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene and is designed to allow the solids in the wastewater to settle to the bottom of the tank, while the liquid waste (effluent) is released into the drain field (see below).
Components of a Septic Tank System
As the wastewater enters the septic tank, it is separated into three layers. The bottom layer is composed of heavy solids and sludge, which gradually accumulate over time.
The middle layer is a clear liquid layer that contains most of the organic matter, while the top layer, composed of oils and grease etcetera is called the scum layer..
Effluent from the septic tank flows out into the drain field through a series of perforated pipes.
The drain field is a shallow, gravel-lined area located beneath the soil surface. This is where the effluent is dispersed, filtered and naturally treated by the surrounding soil.
The soil acts as a natural filter, removing harmful bacteria and other contaminants from the effluent as it percolates through the earth.
The drain field is a critical component of the septic system, that with the proper care can function almost indefinitely without intervention.
The Dangers of Neglecting a Septic Tank
What destroys a functioning drain field is a gradual build-up of solid waste that is overflowing from your septic tank.
The heavy waste and “solids” should stay in the tank and are worked on by the friendly bacteria that reside there.
These trillions of Bacteria inside your septic tank work on both the (liquid) effluent and the solid waste by eating it (yuck… I know). Though by doing this for us they not only clean the effluent ready to head out to your drain field. They reduce the amount of solid waste considerably.
This is why a healthy septic tank system can go so long between pump outs.
As an added benefit, a healthy septic tank full of the “Good” bacteria, reduces the unsightly and foul odors that you may encounter that surround a damaged or poorly maintained septic system.
Signs of a Failing Septic Tank
These foul odors are not just unpleasant, they are a sign of possible dangerous bacteria being alive and in sufficient numbers to be a threat to your health.
If these bacteria are present in sufficient numbers, this is where your drain field can become clogged (overloaded).
In extreme cases, this can cause untreated sewage to back into your septic tank and all the way back into your home. It can even pollute surrounding groundwater which if you are on the land, can be very hazardous.
Proper Maintenance of a Septic Tank
To prevent these issues, it is important to have the septic tank pumped periodically to remove the accumulated solids in your tanks and have the drain field inspected to make sure everything is working like it should.
Between septic “Pump-Outs”, you can help bolster the “Good Bacteria” in your septic system with the use of specially designed septic system treatment that can enhance or rejuvenate your septic tank and drain field performance. This can reduce the load on your septic system and help extend the time between tanks servicing and pumping and helping to keep your system as clean, effective and as healthy as possible.
Thanks for reading