A septic tank is an underground wastewater treatment system commonly used in areas not connected to a municipal sewer line. It's a self-contained concrete, fiberglass, or plastic tank that treats household wastewater through a natural settling and biological decomposition process.
Here's how it works:
Wastewater enters the tank: All wastewater from your home, including from toilets, sinks, showers, and laundry, flows into the tank through an inlet pipe.
Solids settle and scum floats: As the wastewater sits in the tank, heavier solids sink to the bottom, forming a layer of sludge. Lighter materials like fats, oils, and grease float to the top, forming a layer of scum.
Bacteria decompose organic matter: Anaerobic bacteria in the sludge decompose organic matter in the wastewater. This process reduces the volume of solids and purifies the wastewater.
Treated wastewater flows out: The partially treated wastewater, called effluent, flows out of the tank through an outlet pipe into a drainfield.
Drainfield purifies the wastewater: The drainfield is a network of perforated pipes buried in the ground. The effluent slowly trickles out of the pipes and seeps into the soil. The soil naturally filters and purifies the wastewater, removing harmful bacteria and other contaminants.
Septic tanks are a relatively low-maintenance wastewater treatment system, but they do require regular pumping to remove the accumulated sludge. It's important to have your septic tank inspected and pumped every 1-3 years to ensure it's functioning properly and to prevent backups.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about septic tanks:
They are not designed to treat hazardous materials like paints, thinners, or medications.
Do not overload your septic system with excessive wastewater.
Avoid planting trees near your drainfield, as their roots can damage the pipes.
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