If you've recently purchased a home in a rural area, you might have discovered that the house treats wastewater through a septic system. This might seem daunting at first. However, once you understand how to maintain this setup, it will seem more apparent. This guide will introduce you to the primary septic components and instruct you on their care.

What Makes Up a Septic System?

A septic system is an underground, self-contained wastewater treatment structure. It comprises two main parts: a septic tank and a drainfield. When water leaves your home, it flows through a drainage pipe and into the septic tank. Here, solids float to the bottom, becoming a sludge, and fats, oil, and grease float to the top, creating a scum. The remaining liquid, known as effluent, is left in the middle of the tank, which will eventually exit through a T-shaped outlet to discharge into the drainfield. 

The drainfield is a shallow excavation or a series of trenches that are lined with gravel and topped with coarse sand. Wastewater is dispersed over the field by perforated pipes, making its way through the soil and gravel, where bacteria, viruses, or harmful organisms are filtered out. Finally, the filtered water returns to the surrounding groundwater.  

How to Maintain a Septic System

There are bacteria in the septic tank that break down the sludge and scum layers. However, these organisms often can't work quickly enough, and the tank will become overrun. Have the tank pumped periodically to prevent sewage from overflowing into the drainfield or into your home. In Oregon, it's recommended to have a 1,000-gallon tank serving a household of four people pumped every three years. 

In addition to regular septic pumping, be mindful of water usage and what you flush down your drain. Too much water drained into the tank at one time can cause it to spill onto the drainfield without proper filtering. Be sure to spread out showers, laundry loads, and dishwasher runs. It’s also important to avoid flushing anything down the toilet except for toilet paper, as this will clog your septic tank. You'll also want to avoid pouring chemicals down your drains as they contain ingredients that could kill the bacteria living in your tank. 

Another step in taking care of your septic system is to have yearly inspections performed by American On Site. For 16 years, they have provided quality and affordable septic services to Molalla, OR. They are licensed, bonded, and insured, and their technicians are fully certified and trained. Call them today at (503) 829-7600 to schedule a septic inspection or cleaning, and visit their website to schedule an appointment.