Introduction to septic systems
A septic system is a self-contained, underground wastewater treatment system. Septic systems are used in areas where there is no central sewer system. Wastewater from toilets, showers, sinks, and other sources enters the septic tank. The tank stores the wastewater and treats it with bacteria. The treated wastewater then flows into the leach field where it is absorbed into the soil.
Proper septic system maintenance is essential for a healthy system. Septic systems should be tested every three to five years and cleaned as needed. Proper maintenance requires knowing your system’s history and limits.
How do septic systems work?
A septic system is a self-contained, underground wastewater treatment system. Septic systems are used when there is no connection to a central sewer system. Wastewater from toilets, sinks, showers and washing machines flows into the septic tank. The tank holds the wastewater for a period of time so solids can settle to the bottom and oils can float to the top. Bacteria in the tank break down the solids and oils.
The effluent liquid from the septic tank flows into a leach field or drain field where it is slowly absorbed into the soil. The soil filters out impurities and provides the final treatment of the wastewater before it reenters groundwater. Properly maintained septic systems protect public health and safeguard groundwater quality.
The most common causes of septic system failure
Septic systems can fail for a number of reasons, but the most common cause is a clog or blockage. Other causes include sluggish waste digestion rates and poor maintenance.
To prevent septic system failure, it is important to understand the common problems that can occur. By addressing these issues early on, you can avoid major problems down the road.
18 common septic tank problems and how to fix them
1. Clogged septic tank: A clogged septic tank can cause your system to fail. You should have your septic tank cleaned out every three to five years to prevent this problem.
2. Septic system failure: If your septic system fails, it can release hazardous waste into the environment. You may be liable for damages if this happens.
3. Slow drain field: A slow drain field can be caused by a variety of factors, including tree roots, soil compaction, and leaks in the pipes. You should have your drain field inspected by a professional every three to five years to ensure it is functioning properly.
4. Leach field problems: Leach fields are an important part of your septic system, and they can be damaged by a variety of factors, including flooding and vehicle traffic. You should have your leach field inspected by a professional every three to five years to ensure it is functioning properly.”
How to prevent many common septic tank problems?
1. The number one cause of septic tank failure is a lack of consistent maintenance. Ensure your system is maintained regularly to keep it functioning properly.
2. Flushing the toilet three times can supercharge your septic tank and help keep it working properly.
3. Consistent maintenance means more than just calling in the professionals – understanding septic systems can be a challenge. DOWN JOHN ™ Treatment is a biological additive that fixes septic problems and is effective, fast, and free.
4. DOWN JOHN dissolves grease caps and boosts the growth of healthy bacteria, which combat odors and efficiently break down organic waste – making it a simple and effective way to treat existing problems and prevent them from returning.
Maintain Your Drainfield
Your drain field is an important part of your septic system, and it is crucial to keep it in good working order. A properly functioning drain field helps to remove contaminants from wastewater before it enters the environment.
There are a few key things you can do to maintain your drain field and keep it functioning properly:
1. Do not park or drive on your drain field. This can compact the soil and damage the system.
2. Plant trees the appropriate distance from your drain field to keep roots from growing into your septic system.
3. Keep roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainwater drainage systems away from your drain field area to avoid slowing down or stopping the wastewater treatment process.”
What Takes Place in the Septic Tank?
The septic tank is where wastewater from the home flows. The tank’s primary purpose is to retain solids. The tank’s sludge layer and scum layer are indicators of tank health. After two days, the sewage effluent is discharged from the tank. The retention time is necessary for the separation of solids and liquids, and for the start of anaerobic digestion. Newer septic systems include an effluent filter to prevent solids from flowing out with the liquids. An effluent outlet septic tank eliminates the need for a sanitary tee by installing an outlet at the end of the septic tank.
What Kinds of Soil Conditions Are Best Suited to a Conventional Septic System?
1. Soil conditions that are best suited to a conventional septic system are those with gently sloping, thick, and permeable soils.
2. The soil should be a uniform brown, yellow, or bright red color.
3. The soil should not have spots of gray colors that often indicate the soil becomes excessively wet or that groundwater comes up close to the ground surface during the wet times of the year.
4. The texture of the soil should be neither too sandy nor too clayey in order for the septic system to work properly.
Common Septic Tank Problems
The most common problem with septic tanks is a blockage. Sometimes a blockage is caused by tree roots. Clearing a blockage can be done with simple plumbing tools.
Septic tanks overflow when it rains a lot, and if the soil around the tank gets clogged, the tank must be replaced. Sometimes the soil around a soakaway can get clogged, which can lead to soakaway problems. A malfunctioning soakaway can lead to scum and sludge accumulation, which can then be transported to the soakaway.
A regular maintenance schedule is important to avoid clogging of the perforated distribution drain pipe or the pores in the earth walls of the soakaway. If you notice unpleasant odors, persistent wet spots, or excessive green growth, it may be a sign that a maintenance schedule is not being followed.
Septic tanks must be emptied every twelve months, or they will overflow and cause problems. Sludge buildup in a septic tank can cause problems if it isn’t cleared regularly. Septic tanks must be pumped and cleaned if they become overloaded. Over-usage of a system can cause it to break down. Regular septic system maintenance is essential to keep it working properly.
