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While a waste disposal system may not be the most appealing part of a property, the more you know about your septic system, the better you’ll be able to maintain it. Having that knowledge will increase your comfort with how the process works and help you remember to schedule a septic tank cleaning every few years. Here’s a guide to the three most crucial parts of a septic system. 

3 Important Parts of a Septic System

1. The Septic Tank

septic tank cleaningAfter waste leaves the house, it flows through pipes to the septic tank, which is usually buried somewhere on the property. The solid waste, or sludge layer, settles at the bottom, where it is exposed to bacteria to remove its toxins. Every two to three years, it’s important to schedule a septic tank cleaning to remove the sludge layer. The liquid waste continues its journey downward, where it reaches a lower chamber and is treated and purified.  

2. The Distribution Box 

The distribution box works as a connector between the septic tank and the leach field, where the liquid waste, or effluent, will eventually end up. After the liquid is treated, it flows downhill into a concrete container — the distribution box. The container will have many linkages to lines which disseminate the effluent. Thanks to flow-leveling mechanisms, the distribution box ensures that the effluent is spread evenly throughout the leach field. 

3. The Leach Field

The final phase of the septic process occurs in the leach field (also known as a drain field). The pipes from the distribution box lead into a shallow area filled with soil. The effluent is discharged throughout the area, where the soil removes bacteria, viruses, and any harmful elements. Eventually, the remnant of the liquid flows back to the groundwater. In cases when it’s been too long since a septic tank cleaning, solid waste can enter the drain field, ruining the delicate balance of the soil. 

 

If it’s been a long time since your last septic tank cleaning, don’t hesitate to reach out to the specialists at Downs Drain & Septic Service in Peninsula, OH. In business for over 52 years, the family-owned and operated company offers everything from septic tank installation to septic repair. Their innovative Juggler™ pumping technology means the whole tank can be cleaned in less than 20 minutes. To schedule an appointment with the septic tank cleaning crew, just call (330) 929-5555. Learn more about the company by visiting their website

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