The septic system has been used globally by communities spanning the globe ever since its invention in the 1860’s. Whether you already have a septic tank or are considering having one installed, it’s helpful to understand how the system works. Winelco, the trusted waste water treatment contractor of West Chester, OH, has shared the basics of how the system works.

A Journey through the Septic Tank & Its System

When you flush a toilet or run a load through the dishwasher, the waste water runs through the small pipes behind those appliances down to the main drainage pipe. This pipe leads to the large septic tank, which resides underground near your property. Over time, gravity does its work, and the solid waste (sludge) sifts to the bottom of the tank while the liquid waste (effluent) floats to the top.

The effluent leaves the tank through a pipe directed to the drain field. This is a shallow area with rows of perforated plumbing running through it, buried in a porous material such as gravel. As the effluent leaves the plumbing and enters the earth, it percolates through the rock and soil to eventually become groundwater. This happens as a result of the soil cleaning the liquid to neutralize harmful bacteria. However, the remaining sludge in the tank contains harmful bacteria that needs to be pumped out every five years via hired sludge removal.

A septic tank is part of a system that’s been used for hundreds of years. Whether you’re looking to have a new one installed or need drainage services, Winelco has the experience and tools to help. Contact them at (513) 755-8050 to talk about your septic tank cleaning or installation needs.