A septic tank is an underground wastewater treatment system responsible for disposing of household wastewater on-site. As a homeowner, it’s important to have an understanding of how your system works, as it is one of the most critical components of your property. Fortunately, the skilled technicians at A & J Nichols Septic Tank Co, the leading wastewater treatment company in Byhalia, MS, are here to provide an overview of the process.

Septic tanks are often made of concrete, steel, or fiberglass and are buried in your yard. Wastewater flows from the sewage pipes into one end of the tank and leaves out the other end through the drain field. As it enters the tank, any of the waste that floats will rise to the top and form the scum layer.  The heavier waste will sink to the bottom and create the sludge layer. The water in between is mostly clear and contains bacteria and chemicals that act as fertilizers.

Once new water enters the tank, it replaces the existing water, which then flows out of the system and into the drain field. A drain field is a shallow excavation consisting of perforated pipes filled with gravel to filter the wastewater. The waste is then dispersed into the soil, providing nourishment to the plants and insects that live there. Those same life forms simultaneously purify the waste and remove the harmful coliform bacteria and viruses.

To learn more about how your septic system works or schedule routine maintenance, turn to the professionals at A & J Nichols Septic Tank Co in Byhalia, MS. The company offers a comprehensive range of septic solutions, from pumping to 24-hour emergency service. Call (662) 838-2945 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their services.