Crash Course: Septic Systems
So you have a septic system as a new homeowner or new installation. They may seem intimidating at first, but with these maintenance tips and tricks, you can keep your system running like a pro.
What is a septic system?
A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system commonly used in rural areas without access to centralized sewage treatment. It treats and disposes 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 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 nutrients from the effluent before it reaches groundwater.
How does the system run?
When you flush the toilet or drain water, it flows into the septic tank starting the flow of wastewater. In the tank, solids settle, and anaerobic bacteria begin to break them down known as sedimentation. The liquid effluent flows from the tank to the drain field, where it infiltrates the soil, which further treats the water through the effluent filter. The treated effluent eventually enters the groundwater, helping to replenish aquifers.
How do I know if my system isn’t running properly?
Without a licensed technician diagnosing the problem, there can be some signs that your system may have an issue arising. Common problems:
- 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 3-5 years to remove accumulated sludge and scum. Smaller tanks 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 septics 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.
I don’t like dealing with a septic system. Can I remove it?
It can be difficult to remove a septic system as cities and municipalities have regulations. They can be removed, but they have benefits of keeping them!
Septic systems are a vital option for managing wastewater in areas without centralized sewage services. Septic tanks are good for 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.
