A septic tank usually resembles a large metal or plastic box with inspection ports and pumping manholes. It is placed underground and hidden from view.
Bacteria decompose the waste materials. Heavy solids sink to the bottom and form sludge. Lighter masses, such as oils and grease, float to the top and create a scum film. Contact Septic Tank Armadale now!
A septic tank works by allowing wastewater to sit and undergo a settling process. Heavy materials like sediment and solid waste sink to the bottom, while lighter masses such as grease, oils, and lipids float to the top and create a scum layer. Over time, bacteria digest these materials, turning them into liquid effluent that exits the septic tank through an outlet pipe.
The septic system’s drain field (also known as the soil absorption field or leach field) then disperses this treated water into the surrounding soil. Unlike municipal sewer systems, a septic system relies on the natural absorption of the soil to remove contaminants and treat wastewater.
Despite its effectiveness, septic systems can still experience problems from time to time. Gurgling noises from the plumbing can indicate that there is a clog in your drainage system; if there are pools of water in your yard, it may mean that the septic tank is overflowing or has flooded the drain field. Foul odors near the septic system can also indicate that the tank has failed to properly filter wastewater.
An effluent filter is a valuable investment for septic tanks because it prevents inorganic solids from making it out into the drain field. This material can clog up the drain field, which is an expensive repair for homeowners. Septic tank filters can also help reduce the amount of solid waste that enters your septic system in the first place, reducing the frequency and severity of clogs in the household plumbing.
Septic tank filters are available in a variety of types and sizes, but all function in the same way by trapping solid waste particles as wastewater passes through them. Some septic tank filters are made of layers of sand that allow for easy cleaning while others have fine mesh screens that require regular replacement to keep them functioning.
Regardless of the type of filter you choose, it is important to clean your septic tank regularly to prevent clogs from occurring. This can be done by removing the cover from the filter, pouring water into it, and then washing the filter with a hose.
It Reduces Odors
A septic tank contains microorganisms that digest waste. Those microorganisms can also produce foul-smelling gases, which must be vented out of your house. The septic tank vents are designed to keep the gases out of your house, but they can block up or become jammed. The vents can also leak, which leads to odor problems in your house. Several steps can be taken to fix these issues.
Check your septic tank odors for the cause of the problem before taking action. If the odors are caused by a clogged drain, then simply clearing the clog should stop the smells. If the septic tank itself is the source of the odor, you may need to pump it.
When the septic system is working properly, it should not produce any odors at all. If you do notice a smell, it is a sign that it is time to pump the tank or at least get it checked.
The septic tank is a large concrete or plastic container that holds all of the household wastewater and solid waste. It is connected to a septic drain field in which the waste is absorbed into the groundwater or soil. The septic tank is usually located underground in the backyard, but it can sometimes be located in the driveway or garage.
Some people use alternative systems instead of septic tanks to deal with their waste. Alternative septic systems involve pumps and gravity to help septic tank effluent trickle through the soil, where it is treated by bacteria and other natural processes before being reclaimed into the groundwater supply.
Another way to reduce septic tank odors is to regularly pour baking soda down the drains in your home. This helps keep the pH balance in the septic system and keeps the microorganisms healthy. You should also try to avoid flushing non-flushable items, such as cigarette butts, baby wipes and coffee grounds.
If you are experiencing septic tank odors in your house, you should also check the vent stack. The vents are designed to release the odor-causing gases from your septic tank, but they can become blocked by leaves and debris or freeze during cold weather. The pipes can also break down and fail, which allows the gases to escape into the house.
It Adds Value to Your Home
If you’re looking to move out of the city or suburbs into a more rural area, chances are you want some peace and quiet. And, perhaps you’re dreaming of a little homestead where you can live off the grid and grow your own food. If so, you’ll need a septic system. This is because septic systems collect and treat wastewater on site, instead of having to pay municipal sewer fees.
Having a septic tank is also eco-friendly and energy efficient, as it utilizes natural processes to dispose of your household waste. Many of today’s homebuyers are concerned about environmental issues, and a well-maintained septic system can be a selling point for a buyer.
A septic tank works by collecting and filtering wastewater from toilets, tubs, showers, sinks, washing machines, and other appliances that are connected to the house. The waste goes into the septic tank, where it settles naturally into three layers, thanks to gravity. Grease and oils rise to the top, or scum layer, while solid materials sink to the bottom, or sludge layer. Water seeps out of the septic tank, through perforated pipes into the drainfield, where it filters into the soil using rocks, dirt, and sand to remove impurities. The cleaned water then seeps back down into underground aquifers.
As with any home, septic systems require routine maintenance and emptying. You’ll also need to take extra precautions with what you flush, as common non-flushable items like hair, dental floss, sanitary products, diaper wipes, paper towels, and cigarette butts can disrupt the natural breakdown process. It’s also a good idea to limit your household water usage, as excessive use can stress the system.
A septic tank needs to be inspected regularly, usually every two or three years. A regular inspection can help prevent serious issues, like shifting of the soil around the tank or clogged drain field, from developing into bigger, more costly problems. It’s also important to keep your septic tank away from things that can damage it, such as driveways, playgrounds, storage buildings, and swimming pools. And don’t cover the drain field with impermeable materials, such as concrete or asphalt, as this will interfere with the septic system’s ability to work properly.
It Saves Money
Whether you own a home with a septic tank or are looking to buy one, a septic system offers a few key advantages that help save you money in the long run. A septic system is typically more affordable to maintain than city sewer service, which can add up over time due to ongoing maintenance fees and higher utility bills.
The septic tank is a buried, watertight container that’s made of concrete or plastic (usually polyethylene). It stores wastewater from the house, keeping it from entering public waters and soil. A healthy population of anaerobic bacteria feed on the organic waste and digest it, reducing its volume. Solids sink to the bottom, and oil and grease floats to the top as sludge and scum. Compartments and a T-shaped outlet prevent the sludge and scum from leaving the septic tank and entering the drainfield area. The liquid wastewater (effluent) seeps into the soil via perforated pipes.
If a septic tank isn’t properly maintained, it can leak toxic sewage into the ground or into homes and businesses. This sewage contaminates drinking water, causing a number of diseases and health issues including Hepatitis A, Gastroenteritis, and Typhoid Fever. This is why it’s so important to schedule regular septic tank inspections. A professional will be able to spot any problems, such as a leak, before they turn into a more serious issue that could put your family’s health at risk.
While septic systems are generally more cost-effective than sewer systems, it’s up to you to ensure your septic tank remains in good condition over its expected lifespan. To do this, ensure that all drains are pointing away from the tank and limit your water usage. Use low-flow showerheads and faucets, and consider installing an efficient washing machine and dishwasher.
Finally, never park vehicles over the septic tank or drain field. This can cause the soil to become compacted and inhibit the septic tank’s ability to drain. It’s also important to plant vegetation around your septic tank, as this provides natural insulation against freezing temperatures and helps slow the movement of water through the soil.
