How the Septic System Works

A typical septic system contains two parts, the septic tank and the leeching field or septic field.

The Septic Tank

The septic tank is a large tank that is usually buried underground that collects the water that comes from your toilet, bathtub, and sinks. Tanks can be made from concrete, steel, fiberglass, or polyethylene. The tank contains compartments were the solid waste and liquid wastes are broken down naturally by bacteria. The solid wastes and floating scum is trapped in the tank. The liquid waste flows into the other part of your septic system called the septic field.

It is possible to fill the tank to the point that it backs up into your home. To prevent that from happening, you should get your tank pumped out about every 3-5 years. Each system is different, and the time between pump-outs is affected by the amounts of solid waste, water and solid materials, like toilet paper, that is put through the system.

The Septic Field or Absorption Field

The septic field, which is also called a leeching bed, is an underground area where perforated pipes are laid out in rows. The water from the septic tank flows from the pipes and into the surrounding ground where it is cleaned by bacterial and the soil. How fast this works depends on the soil type and the length of the pipes.

If the soil allows the water to pass through easily and still filters the water, then a smaller septic field is necessary.

How to take care of your septic system

If the septic system is well maintained, then it can last a lifetime. By watching what you put in the system, you can reduce how often you need it get it pumped out and ensure the helpful bacteria are kept healthy and efficient. It is important to remember that what you flush down your toilet and pour down the drain will end up in your septic system.

Avoid driving heavy machinery over the septic tank and field. The compaction of the ground above may crush your tank and cause the septic field to fail. Also, plant grass above the septic field. Vegetation like trees and shrubs may damage your septic field and block off the pipes with their roots. Do not pave the ground above your septic system.

When you are disinfecting your well, make sure the chlorine water is not flowing to or over your septic field. The chlorine may affect the breakdown of waste water by killing the helpful bacteria.

You have to be conscious of what you put in the septic system because you do not want the tank to fill-up and you want to make sure that the bacteria can do their job of breaking down the waste. Small amounts of household cleaners will not harm your septic system, but do not pour excessive amounts of cleaners and chemicals down the drain. Chemicals will kill the bacteria in the system and will cause the tank to fill-up faster. By avoiding the use of garbage disposal unit you can reduce how often your tank needs to be pumped out. Disposal units use a lot of water, which can overflow your system. By conserving water in general you can extend the use of your septic system.

Do not use your toilet as a waste bucket. The more solid wastes, like tissues and toilet paper, put into the tank, the more often it will have to be pumped out and the bigger the chance that it may back-up.