Components of a Septic System

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Does your property have a system? If it does, it is very important that you understand your septic system and know how to solve a problem if one should occur. Let’s just say that your whole system needs to be restored, that could cost you thousands of dollars! Obviously, you can how vital it is to keep your septic system in tip top shape. This article will go over the components of a septic system and how to take care of it.

A typical septic tank system is comprised of four notable components. The first is the pipe that starts in your home and extends to the septic tank. The septic tank is a key component where decomposition takes place. Next, you have the drain field which can be a messy place if flooding occurs. Then there is the soil surrounding your home and the drain field. Many people get nervous that the soil around their septic system and drinking water could be polluted due to waste water. Good bacteria present in the soil will aid in the digestion of waste water so it does not contaminate the soil or drinking water.

The pipe that begins in your home transfers all the waste water produced in your home down to the septic tank. Septic tanks are made from different substances, one such material is fiberglass. Water can not penetrate a solid septic tank and they are located below the ground. Some of the more modern septic systems have manhole covers that allow you or a professional to check and pump your tank with ease.

Essentially, septic tanks provide an ideal environment for solid wastes to separate from waste water. There is normally a screen or filter affixed to the septic tank. These things do not allow solids to pass through into the drain field. To maintain an efficient septic system you should have it pumped on a regular basis. This can be once or twice a year, or every three years, it depends on your septic tank system.

What is the drain field? It is the soil surrounding your septic tank that the treatment of waste water occurs after it empties out of the septic tank. Every time waste water is pushed out of the septic tank, the waste water that hasn’t fully been treated is moved further along. Flooding occurs if an excessive amount of waste water pours out into the drain field. This can be quite expensive to repair and the smell can be overwhelming, not to mention the mess it makes.

Why is soil a vital component in a septic system? It is so important because the soil is the component that kills off harmful disease spreading pathogens. The good bacteria found in the soil digests all the bad bacteria, including those which cause odor. This is why your water supply will not be polluted.

Taking care of your septic tank system really isn’t all that hard. Be mindful of what you put into your septic system and have it pumped on a regular basis. Also, adding natural bacteria producing supplements into your septic system will help foster a healthy septic environment.

By: Bradley Skierkowski