Free Estimates
How Your Septic System Works
A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system commonly used in rural areas where municipal sewer systems are not available. It consists of a septic tank and a drain field, also known as a leach field or soil absorption system. In this post, we will explain how a septic system works.
Septic Tank
The septic tank is a watertight container that receives and treats wastewater from your home. The tank is usually made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene and is buried underground. Wastewater enters the tank through a pipe called an inlet, where the solids settle to the bottom and form a layer of sludge. The remaining liquid flows out of the tank through a pipe called an outlet, which leads to the drain field.
Drain Field
The drain field is a series of perforated pipes or chambers buried underground that disperse the liquid from the septic tank into the surrounding soil. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from the wastewater. The drain field should be located in an area with well-draining soil and enough space to accommodate the size of the septic system.
How it Works
When you use water in your home, it flows through the pipes and into the septic tank. The solids settle to the bottom of the tank, and the liquid flows out into the drain field. The liquid is absorbed by the soil, where it is naturally treated and purified. The septic tank needs to be pumped periodically to remove the accumulated solids.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the proper functioning of a septic system. Septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on the size of the tank and the number of people using it. Additionally, you should avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet, limit your water usage, and avoid using harsh chemicals that can kill the beneficial bacteria in the septic tank.
In conclusion, a septic system is a reliable and efficient wastewater treatment option for rural areas without access to municipal sewer systems. By understanding how it works and following proper maintenance procedures, you can help ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your septic system. For more information, contact Darrell Crews Septic Tank Service today.
Troubleshooting
- High water alarm going off...ensure there is power to the pump.
- Clogged filter...unfortunately filters clog up over time. If your tank has been pumped within the last year and you are still seeing slow drains you may want to check your filter to ensure it is not causing water to back up.
Improperly Functioning Systems and Potential Causes
Drainfield Failure
Drainfield failure can be caused by several different issues, such as the Drainfield being crushed, clogged or blown out. Whatever the cause, when the Drainfield isn’t functioning properly water can’t flow out of the tank into the drainfield. When this happens water begins to back up in the tank which can lead to sewage overflowing outside around the lid of the tank or backing up into the tubs and toilets of the house.
Clogged Pipes
Your house, septic tank and drainfield are all connected by pipes. These pipes can be clogged or blocked at various points. Clogs can be cause by grease, roots, foreign debris, etc. When a filter is clogged water can’t flow thru properly. This can cause water to back up in to your home
Clogged Filters
When a filter is clogged water can’t flow thru properly. This can cause water to back up in to your home.
Sump Pump Failure
Systems that utilize a sump pump (a pump in a second small tank that pumps water from the septic tank out to the drainfield) can experience issues if the sump pump loses power or malfunctions. When the pump is no longer forcing the water out to the drainfield it can back up in the septic tank.
Tank Failure
Like anything else septic tanks experience wear and damage over time. The gases found within the tank corrode the concrete over time. The tank can also get cracked. There are other mechanisms within the tank such as the Turn Down or Solid Deflection Device that can get broken or knocked off.
Roots
One of the most common causes of system failure or malfunction are roots. Whether they have grown into pipes, infiltrated and clogged the drainfield or worked their way into the actual tank, roots are almost sure to cause problems wherever they go. Never plant trees or plants near or around your septic system.
