Septic systems deal with all the waste from the households they serve. They are common in rural areas and feature three main components: the tank, perforated pipes, and adjoining drainfield. If you are a homeowner, you need to learn how a septic system operates and what you need to do to keep this sensitive system in excellent condition for years to come.

Septic System Basics

How Does It Work?

The first phase of septic system operation deals with the tank. All liquid and solid waste from household drains and toilets enter the system via plumbing pipes, where they then get separated. Floatable matter, such as oil and grease, rise to the top of the tank, while solid waste sinks to the bottom, forming sludge. Wastewater leaves the tank via perforated pipes and filters through the drainfield soil. This natural filtering process prevents sewage from contaminating groundwater sources.

Solid waste remains in the tank where it is slowly broken down by bacterial enzymes. However, it is still possible for a container to become overloaded with liquid and solid waste and create issues such as plumbing backups, tank leaks, and flooded drain fields.

How Do I Prolong The Life Of My System?

Prevent system problems by maintaining a septic pumping schedule. Tanks require cleaning every two to five years based on factors such as the number of people in your home and weekly water usage. Pumping prevents overloaded containers that leak and create severe soil and waterway contamination issues, among other problems.

Other maintenance tips include identifying your tank’s location to avoid parking cars over it. Vehicles and other heavy objects put pressure on the container that can cause it to crack and leak. Also, avoid planting trees, shrubs, and flowers with extensive root systems over your tank since they will infiltrate it, as well as nearby pipes, to cause leaks and contamination issues. Plant shallow-rooted perennials and ornamental grasses instead. Do not plant vegetables and herbs around your tank or drainfield to avoid bacterial contamination.

You can also preserve your septic system by monitoring your weekly water use. Running major appliances such as the washing machine and dishwasher on the same day overwhelm the tank and can leak solids into the drainfield. Conserve water to help your system as well as the planet. 

Maintain your septic system with assistance from County Sanitary Service. In business for over 60 years, this family-owned company serving Ross County, OH, and the surrounding areas provides septic pumping and repairs among other residential, commercial, and industrial services. Call (740) 772-1189 today to schedule septic tank cleaning or learn more about the fully-licensed company online.