Crash Course: Septic Systems
So you have a septic system as a new home buyer. This may seem intimidating at first, but let Clean Delaware give these maintenance tips and tricks to keep your system running for years to come.
What is a septic system?
A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system used in rural areas without access to centralized sewage treatment. It treats and helps dispose of household wastewater, including sewage, using a combination of natural processes and engineered components.
Septic Tank: This is a large, watertight container buried underground. Wastewater flows into the tank, where solids settle at the bottom forming sludge and fats and oils float to the top forming scum. Bacteria breaks down the solids over time.
Drain Field: Also known as a leach field, is a network of pipes buried usually in gravel-filled trenches. The treated liquid waste from the septic tank is distributed here, where it percolates through the soil for further filtration and treatment.
Soil: The surrounding soil plays a crucial role in filtering harmful pathogens and uptaking nutrients before the “effluent” reaches groundwater.
How does the system run?
When you flush the toilet or drain water, it flows into the septic tank. Once in the tank, solids settle, and anaerobic bacteria begin to break them down known as sedimentation. The liquid flows through an effluent filter to a distribution box then into perforated pipes in to the drain field, where it infiltrates the soil. The treated effluent eventually enters the groundwater, helping to replenish aquifers.
How do I know if my system is running properly?
Use a licensed technician to pump your tank and diagnosing problem. Some signs that your system may have an issue include:
- Slow drains or backups in the plumbing. Toilet may not flush.
- Foul odors near the tank or drain field.
- Standing water or wet spots above the drain field.
- Unexplained lush vegetation growth in the area of the drain field.
How do I avoid problems with my system?
- PUMP REGULARLY! Have you septic tank pumped every 2-3 years to remove accumulated sludge and scum. Homes with heavy water usage may need more frequent pumping especially around holidays if many guests have been in the home.
- Limit water use to prevent overloading the system. Fix leaks and use water-efficient fixtures.
- Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items or harmful chemicals, as they can disrupt the bacterial processes in the tank. Even if the product says it is safe for septic systems, avoid flushing wipes or other harder to degrade products.
- Keep heavy vehicles off the drain field, and avoid planting trees or shrubs nearby, as roots can clog the system.
A final word...
Septic systems are a vital option for managing wastewater in areas without centralized sewage services. Properly operating septic systems can benefit the environment. They eliminate waste, recycle water and naturally replenish water tables. It is beneficial for the surrounding vegetation and wildlife as well. By understanding how they work and how to maintain them, homeowners can ensure their septic systems function effectively and prolong their lifespan.
For additional answers to septic questions please visit our website www.cleandelaware.com, call us at 302-684-4221 or email us at info@cleandelaware.com.
Make Clean Delaware the choice for all of your septic system needs!
