How Do Septic Tanks Work?

A well-maintained septic tank can remain functional for years, saving you time and money on repairs. Maintaining a septic tank is not expensive and is easily accessible, however, a faulty tank might require repairing, which can add up to the prices. 

Good maintenance starts with an understanding of your septic tanks and their workings. 


Septic Tanks Are Party Houses For Bacteria


A septic tank carries out its duties of filtering out solid waste from sewage water, by the use of anaerobic bacteria, which breaks down the solid waste, forming a sediment layer. Most of the bacteria content of a septic tank is in its drain field, while some remain within the tank.



Remember:

  • All waste produced in the house passes through the septic tank

  • Watery waste, called effluent, fills most of the tank and gets broken down by bacteria

  • A layer of sludge forms at the bottom, consisting of inorganic byproducts of the bacterial digestion

  • A layer of scum forms at the top, consisting of fat, grease and so on.

  • A filter prevents solid waste from entering the outlet pipe

  • Effluent flows to the drain field

  • Aerobic bacteria in soil complete the decomposition process



How To Keep Septic Tanks Clean


When properly designed and installed, a septic tank only requires pumping when it develops layers of scum and sludge. A professional septic tank pumping service, like R & R Construction, can easily take care of the tank for you at affordable rates. There are certain things that should be kept in mind, to keep the system running smoothly for years.


  • Waste that does not get decomposed easily, like cigarette butts, diapers, and coffee grounds often cause blockages.

  • Garbage disposers can send too much solid waste into the septic tank if used heavily.

  • Bacteria in the tank can not break down lint from clothing items.

  • Too much wastewater in a short duration can flush the tank out too rapidly.

  • Too much sludge reduces the efficiency of the bacteria in breaking down waste.

  • Sludge or scum can block outlets.

  • If cars park on the drain field, compacted soil and gravel block the seepage of effluent and reduce oxygen supply for bacteria.



Keeping these things in mind will help homeowners maintain safety regulations and keep their homes free from bad odour or plumbing issues. A well-maintained septic tank, reduces chances of overflowing, blockages and malfunction of faucets, sinks and so on.


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