Exploring the Key Parts of a Septic System
If you live in a rural area or have a property that is not connected to a municipal sewer system, chances are you have a septic system. While septic systems may not be the most glamorous topic, they are an essential part of maintaining a healthy home. This blog post will explore the key parts of a septic system and how they work together to keep your household running smoothly.
Septic Tank
The septic tank is perhaps the most well-known part of a septic system. It is a large, underground container made of fiberglass, plastic, or concrete that collects and stores wastewater from your home. The tank is divided into two chambers by a baffle or wall. The first chamber receives the incoming wastewater from your house, where solids settle at the bottom, and scum floats to the top. Bacteria in the tank break down these solids over time. The second chamber allows clarified liquid to flow out into the drain field.
Drain Field
Once wastewater exits the septic tank, it moves into the drain field, also referred to as the absorption field or leach field. The drain field is made up of perforated pipes buried in trenches filled with gravel or other aggregate material. These pipes evenly distribute liquid waste throughout the soil for additional treatment and filtration. Microorganisms in the soil aid in removing harmful pathogens and nutrients before the water reaches groundwater sources.
Distribution Box
The distribution box plays a crucial role in distributing effluent evenly among multiple trenches in the drain field. It is typically located between the outlet of the septic tank and the inlet of drain field pipes. The distribution box ensures that effluent flows uniformly into each trench, preventing overloading of any one area and promoting efficient treatment of wastewater.
Baffles
Baffles are found inside the septic tank and help control how wastewater flows through different compartments. In addition to dividing the tank into two chambers for primary treatment, baffles also prevent scum and solids from escaping into drain field pipes. Properly functioning baffles ensure that only clarified liquid exits the septic tank for further treatment in the drain field.
Risers and Covers
Septic tanks are usually buried underground for protection and aesthetic reasons, making them difficult to access for maintenance or inspection purposes. Risers are vertical extensions installed on top of septic tanks to bring access points closer to ground level for easier monitoring and pumping activities. Covers provide additional protection against debris and unauthorized entry while allowing service technicians to perform necessary tasks efficiently.
A septic system may not be the most exciting topic, but it is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and functional home. Understanding the key parts of a septic system can help you better maintain and troubleshoot any potential issues that may arise. Regular maintenance and proper usage of your septic system will ensure its longevity and keep your household running smoothly for years to come.
Contact a local company to learn more, like Eoff Septic Services.