Your home’s septic system facilitates the flow of wastewater into the ground supply, though it requires maintenance to function properly. Learn more about how the system operates and when you need to schedule septic pumping and maintenance services.

Single Tanks 

Wastewater moves from your home through the sewer line and into your septic tank. If you have a single tank, it only contains one chamber. As anaerobic bacteria in the tank break down the solid materials, sludge will settle to the bottom, and the remaining liquids exit the chamber into the drain field. 

Double Tanks

Double tanks contain two chambers. The first functions the same as a single tank. When water moves out of the first chamber, it enters the second chamber for further purification. Bacteria will break down any remaining solids before the liquids move into the drain field. 

Drain Field 

The drain field is a shallow, three-layered area that includes backfill on top, perforated pipes in the middle, and washer gravel at the bottom. When fluids move from your septic tank into the drain field, they will percolate through aggregate materials and pipes, which removes any remaining impurities. By the time the fluids reenter the ground supply, they’ve been safely filtered. 

Required Maintenance 

The average septic tank fills within three to five years. Schedule septic pumping during this timeframe to remove sludge and prevent indoor plumbing backups.

Protect your drain field by keeping heavy items away from the area and planting foliage at least 15 to 20 feet away. 

When your home is due for septic pump services, contact the team at J&M Cesspool and Septic Pumping Services, LLC. Since 2000, they’ve provided septic maintenance, cleaning, and inspections to Kaneohe, HI, homes and businesses. Call (808) 753-1411 to set up a routine septic pumping schedule or take advantage of 24-hour support. Visit their website to find out more about their services.