WHAT IS A SEPTIC TANK?

Septic tank installation is a critical process that ensures proper wastewater management for properties without access to municipal sewer systems. The installation involves several steps, including site evaluation, design, excavation, and placement of the tank and drain field. It is essential to follow local regulations and secure the necessary permits for septic tank installations. Working with experienced professionals ensures that the system is designed and installed correctly, meeting all safety standards.

Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, more commonly referred to as a septic system, are used primarily in rural areas of the country where wastewater treatment is not available. These systems fall into two general categories, 1.) gravity fed; conventional. & 2.) alternative (pump) systems including aerobic treatment units. (ATU) Alternative systems usually include electric pumps. This is a project recommended for a professional with experience in the field due to the potential risk to the environment by pollution of the watershed.

2        WHAT DOES MY SEPTIC TANK DO?

After passing from the house, the wastewater collects in the septic tank. Septic tanks typically range from 1,000 to 2,000 gallons and are made of concrete, heavy plastic, or metal. High-quality concrete tanks are the most durable and, if not damaged, should last 40 years or more. Many modern tanks have two chambers to increase efficiency.

Tanks are sized large enough to hold new wastewater for at least a day, giving it time for the solids to separate out and settle.  In the tank, oil and grease float to the top of the tank as scum and solid waste sinks to the bottom as sludge. The partially treated wastewater, or effluent, is mostly clear.

3            WHAT’S IN MY SEPTIC TANK?

The solids at the bottom are subject to a host of bacteria and other microorganisms that begin breaking down the materials in an anaerobic (without oxygen) process. Over time, the sludge at the bottom and scum at the top build up thick layers. To keep the system working properly, the solids and grease must be pumped out during regular maintenance of the system. Cooking fats, grease, and solids can also wash into the leach field if the tank is too small for usage levels or is overloaded periodically. Fats, petroleum products, and solids that///// reach the leach field can clog the biological mat where the leach trenches meet the soil and interfere with its job of purifying the effluent   

4   THE SYSTEM OF THE SEPTIC TANK.

The leach field (also called a “drain field”) consists of rows of perforated pipes typically buried in gravel trenches 18 to 36 inches below grade, deep enough to avoid freezing, but close enough to the surface to allow air to reach the bacteria that further purify the effluent. Depending on soil type and local codes the distance to the surface may be as little as 6 inches.

The perforated pipes are covered with about 2 inches of gravel and a layer of topsoil, typically 18 to 24 inches deep. A sheet of geotextile (or hay in the old days) keeps the topsoil from clogging the gravel below. Grass is usually planted above. The grass helps remove excess moisture from the soil without sending down deep roots which can block the piping

Treat your system well and you will be rewarded with years of trouble-free service.  Periodic pumping of the septic tank is essential to remove the solids (sludge) and grease layer (scum) from the tank. Otherwise, solids will eventually overflow the tank and flow into the leach field, reducing its effectiveness and shortening its life.  It is difficult or impossible to rehabilitate a clogged leach field, so regular pumping is critical! Forgetting to pump out the tank is the leading cause of premature failure of septic systems.

5   WHEN YOU SHOULD CALL US!! <3

 

Every 3 to 5 years

According to 2 sources

1.)    How often should you get your septic tank pumped? Generally, a septic tank should be pumped and emptied every 3 to 5 years. Homes outside a city may rely on septic tanks since they don’t have access to city sewer lines

bobvila.com

2.)    While the average home needs pumping every 3 to 5 years, your exact schedule will depend on usage, tank size, and overall health system. Don’t wait for problems to surface, be proactive with inspections and septic tank cleaning to avoid costly emergencies. 

6       ENJOY THESE EXAMPLE  PHOTOS😊