Out of Sight, Out of Mind

It's common for most people to have many questions about septic systems, how they work, and what components it takes to make one work properly. In cities and suburban areas, sewers are used to get the sewage or waste, to a wastewater treatment facility. Where these piping systems and treatment plants are not available, septic systems are used to do the jobs of both.

"Out of sight, out of mind" can be dangerous! If you have a septic system, you need to take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the information on this website. Knowledge is the best way to save yourself costly repairs and many hours of trouble.

Every home is going to produce waste in different amounts and different compositions. The reason is that the number of people, their water usage habits, and the appliances they use, (such as washing machines, and dishwashers) all play a part in the equation. This diagram gives you an idea where the sewage is generated. ( Fig. #1)

What Exactly Are Septic Systems?

Septic systems are actually "small on-site sewage treatment plants" that are buried in the ground. They have two main parts: the septic tank and the soil absorption area. The first septic tank was patented in London, England around 1900. Since then, septic tanks have changed in design, but they still perform the same job. Websters’ defines the septic tank as "a tank in which waste matter is decomposed through bacterial action." Today’s tanks come in different sizes and shapes. Some are concrete and some are strengthened plastics.

Whatever the size or shape, the same process takes place. Wastewater and materials flow into the tank through the inlet pipe. (see Fig. 2) The materials and organic solids float to the surface and form a layer that is called "scum." The wastewater remains in the middle of the tank and this is where the bacteria lives. The bacteria feeds on the scum layer and converts this material into a liquid. During this process of digestion, the bacteria produces a by-product. This by-product along with other inorganic materials fall to the bottom of the tank and form a layer known as "sludge." The fairly clear wastewater between the two layers should be the only thing that flows out of the outlet pipe into the soil absorption area or "lateral field."

Next