For households that don't have access to a municipal sewage utility, a septic system is an effective and affordable alternative. It stores and treats waste and wastewater before releasing treated water into the earth for additional filtering. For those who are unsure of the septic process, S & S Pumping, the leading septic tank maintenance service in Merriam Woods, MO, explains what these systems do and how they work.

A Guide to Septic Systems

What Do They Do?

Septic systems collect, store, and treat household wastewater inside a tank buried in the yard not far from the house. Wastewater includes "blackwater," or human solid and liquid wastes, as well as the "greywater" that results from washing dishes, laundry, showering, and otherwise running faucets. The septic tank may be constructed of various materials, usually steel, concrete, or fiberglass. Tank size depends on the size of the household, but they typically contain between 500 and 2,000 gallons of wastewater.

How Do They Work?

Once wastewater leaves the house and enters the septic tank, it separates into three layers. The "scum" layer, which floats to the top, is comprised of grease and oils. The "sludge" layer, made up of solid waste, settles to the bottom. Water and liquid waste comprise the middle layer.

Inside the septic tank, beneficial bacteria transform the liquids and some of the solids into an effluent that’s safe for release into the earth for additional filtering. The treated effluent leaves the tank via perforated drainpipes, which are buried underground in a septic drain field. The drain field is comprised of rocks and sand, and it filters the effluent of any remaining toxins and makes it safe to enter the groundwater. 

Any accumulated solid wastes and scum must be removed from the tank periodically by a septic tank pumping service. Depending on the tank size and number of household members, the tank should be pumped every two to five years.

S & S Pumping, the most trusted septic tank pumping and repair service in Taney County, MO, will install, maintain, and fix any problems with your septic system. They also do floodwater removal and tank inspections. For more information, visit their website. Call (417) 546-2390 to schedule an estimate with a friendly, knowledgeable professional.