I’m starting a short series on stuff that is buried in our yards. I just gave some attention to one of them in my yard. The septic tank. All our Harris Estates homes have septic systems. Everything that goes down your sinks, showers, and toilets all empty into a septic tank. What is a septic tank and how does it work?
SEPTIC TANKS
A septic tank is an essential part of a home’s wastewater treatment system, especially in areas without access to municipal sewage systems. Here’s a brief overview of how a septic tank works:
- Wastewater Collection:
- Wastewater from the house flows into the septic tank through a main drainage pipe.
- Separation of Solids and Liquids:
- Inside the septic tank, the wastewater separates into three layers:
- Scum: Lighter materials like oils and grease float to the top.
- Effluent: The middle layer consists of partially clarified water.
- Sludge: Heavier solids settle at the bottom.
- Inside the septic tank, the wastewater separates into three layers:
- Anaerobic Digestion:
- Bacteria in the tank break down the solid waste in an anaerobic (without oxygen) process, reducing the volume of sludge.
- Effluent Discharge:
- The partially treated effluent flows out of the septic tank into a distribution box and then into the drainfield (also known as the leach field).
- The drainfield consists of perforated pipes buried in gravel-filled trenches. The effluent is further treated as it percolates through the soil, which filters and purifies the water before it reaches the groundwater12
MAINTAINING YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM
So now that we know how a septic system works, how to we maintain it? Maintaining a septic tank at home is essential to ensure it functions properly and to avoid costly repairs. Here are some key tips to help you maintain your septic system:
Regular Inspections and Pumping: Have your septic system inspected by a professional at least every three years. Pump the septic tank as recommended by the inspector, typically every three to five years.
Water Efficiency: Use water efficiently to reduce the load on the septic system. Fix any leaks in faucets and toilets. Install high-efficiency toilets, showerheads, and faucets.
Proper Waste Disposal: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing items like diapers, wipes, feminine hygiene products, and chemicals. Dispose of cooking grease, coffee grounds, and other kitchen waste in the trash, not down the drain.
Drainfield Care: Keep the drainfield area clear of heavy objects like parked cars or construction materials. Avoid planting trees or shrubs near the drainfield, as roots can interfere with the system. Ensure that rainwater and surface water are directed away from the drainfield.
Septic System Additives: Avoid using septic tank additives unless recommended by a professional. Many additives can harm the system.
COSTS OF IGNORING THE SEPTIC SYSTEM
If you don’t pump your septic tank regularly, it can cause a number of problems, including:
BLOCKAGES: When solids build up in the tank, they can reach the pipes that feed into the drain field and cause clogs. This can lead to sewage backing up into your house or yard, and you may also have trouble flushing the toilet.
SEWAGE IN THE GROUND: If the tank isn’t pumped, raw sewage can seep into the ground around it. If the soil becomes saturated, the waste can reach the surface and come into contact with people, potentially causing disease.
DAMAGE TO THE SEPTIC SYSTEM: When the tank can’t handle additional waste, the solid waste can overwhelm the pipes and cause them to crack. This can lead to expensive repairs or replacements.
ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE: A septic tank failure can damage the local environment and be unpleasant to smell.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your septic system remains in good working condition and avoid unexpected problems. Don’t know where your septic tank and drainfield is located? This information is online on qPublic.net by clicking here.