1 in 5 American households relies on a septic system. Whether you’re already a part of that 20% or considering joining it, understanding how these systems function can help you work with a septic service to keep your system healthy for years to come. Learn more about the basics of septic systems with this helpful guide. 

How Do Septic Tanks Work?

1. Waste Leaves the Home

First, water from toilets, sinks, and appliances runs from pipes in your home to the septic tank, which is a watertight container buried in your yard. To prevent clogged pipes, you shouldn’t flush anything other than toilet paper down the drain. Also, avoid washing any solids or grease down your sink. Have your system inspected by a septic service at least every three years to prevent buildup that can create troublesome clogs.

2. Waste is Treated in the Septic Tank 

Next, in the septic tank, solids sink to the bottom, becoming sludge, while oil and grease float to the top, forming a layer of scum. Liquid wastewater is filtered as it moves through the tank. Without proper upkeep, your septic tank can fill with solid waste, causing sewage backups in your home. To prevent this, work with a septic service to create a regular pumping schedule based on the size of your household and the amount of wastewater going into your tank.

3. Effluent is Dispersed in the Drain field

Filtered wastewater then exits the septic tank and enters the drain field, which is an area filled with unsaturated soil. Over time, the soil filters and disperses the effluent as groundwater. Sometimes, drain fields can flood due to heavy rain, tree roots disrupting the system, or a full septic tank. To prevent raw sewage from reaching the surface of your yard, get your tank regularly pumped and pay attention to puddles in your yard or strange smells in your home. 

If your system requires septic service, work with someone you can trust like Aerobic Services of South Texas in Canyon Lake, TX. They have over 15 years of experience providing septic system cleaning, pumping, installation, maintenance, and emergency services. For both commercial and residential customers, they offer quality materials and customer service. They provide cost-effective solutions that prolong the long life of your system. Call (830) 864-2365 to schedule an appointment and visit their website for more information.