What Are Septic Tanks and How Do They Work?

Septic systems fulfill a crucial function for many homes and businesses, especially in rural areas, though many people are clueless as to how they work. 

While septic tanks are usually low-maintenance systems, they can become extremely tricky and expensive if something goes wrong. A basic knowledge is important to anyone wishing to avoid future problems with their septic tanks.

What is a septic system?

Septic systems are small-scale sewage treatment systems that are used in areas not connected to a sewage system operated by the government or a private company. 

They are often used by homes and farms in rural areas where it is too costly to connect to faraway sewage mains. Septic systems work by pumping wastewater from bathrooms, kitchens and laundry facilities into effluent tanks, which process the waste and then disperse it onto a septic drain field.

What is a septic tank?

A septic tank is an important part of the septic system. It is essentially a water tank that holds between 4000 and 7500 litres of wastewater. 

These typically get buried underground and are connected to an inlet pipe on one end (for sewage to flow in) and a septic drain field on the other (for filtered wastewater to flow out). 

Modern septic tanks usually have two chambers, separated from each other by a dividing wall that has openings midway between the top and bottom of the tank.

What goes on in the septic tank?

First, the wastewater enters the first chamber of the effluent tank. The solids settle to the bottom, and scum floats to the top. Some of the solids at the bottom will decompose and float into the water. 

The liquid will move from the first to the second chamber via the openings in the dividing wall, leaving the solids and scum in the first chamber. 

In the second chamber, more settlement occurs. The liquid is now almost clear from the settlement process and drains from the tank to the septic drain field (also known as a leach field or a seepage field).


>> Click Here To Read Consumer Reports 
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What is a septic drain field?

Septic drain fields are made up of trenches containing perforated pipes and some sort of porous material (like gravel). This is then covered by a layer of soil, which prevents animals from making contact with the wastewater. 

The wastewater is dispersed through the perforated pipes and runs through the gravel, which further removes contaminants and impurities. The purified water is introduced back into the environment through the roots of plants and evaporation.

What powers a septic system?

A septic system can run entirely on gravity, if the conditions are right. If the topography is not conducive to a gravity-powered septic system, a pump can be introduced.

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What happens to waste that doesn't decompose?

Some of the contents of the effluent tank will not decompose; therefore it is important to empty the tank occasionally. If tanks are not pumped the septic tank can fill with undecomposed substances that will be pumped into the drainage field.

This can result in environmental problems as well as expensive repairs. How often the tank needs to be pumped clean varies depending on its size, the number of people using it and the outside temperature. 

Because there are so many variables, there is no rule of thumb for how often the tanks should be pumped: some need it every few years while other can go between 10 and 20 years without pumping. Have a professional inspect your tank to let you know when it needs to be pumped.

Where can I get a septic tank?

Check your phone book or the Internet for septic system suppliers in your area. Because a good septic system should serve you for about 50 years, it is important to choose a high quality manufacturer with a reputation for long-lasting, efficient products.

In New Zealand, RX Plastics is a leading producer of water tanks and effluent tanks. RX Plastics is an innovative and progressive company that provides solutions for all aspects of water reticulation.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Debi_Hazelden/601621

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5661808


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