Introduction of Septic Tanks
In a city, houses and apartments are designed to follow a sewage system. Many houses and apartments share the same sewage, and this waste is then either discharged into a running river or some barren area such as a field. The reality is that this wastewater can get contaminated along its public journey of waste collection and disposal.
Over the past few years, many people have started moving back to the suburbs or boonies, looking to escape densely populated areas in an effort to find tranquillity. Some have also taken notice of environmental hazards that are harming nature and natural habitats around us. With these trends, septic tanks have returned to help homes get rid of waste as well as protect the environment.
If you are one of these people looking to escape the city and begin using a septic tank, it’s important you understand how septic systems work. You’ll be impressed by their design, efficiency, and environmentally-friendly process.
What Is A Septic Tank?
A septic tank is an underwater tank installed in a household that is used to treat the wastewater and remove toxins from it before it is drained in nature or recycled. It really is a perfect combination of technology, engineering, and biological reaction.
Benefits of Septic Tanks
There are a few benefits associated with septic tank systems. For one, septic tanks are environmentally-friendly. They do not contaminate the surrounding natural resources around them. Septic tanks are also cost-effective. A single septic tank can go on for decades if it’s maintained properly, which includes getting it regularly pumped and making sure only the correct substances go into the tank.
Design of a Septic Tank
A septic tank is normally made of fibreglass, plastic, and even concrete. Often, there are two chambers located in the tank which are divided by a wall.
The larger chamber holds the wastewater while the solids settle in the smaller chamber. There are compartments in the tank and an outlet in a T-shape that acts as an outlet for water. Overall, these tanks provide a safe way to dispose of the wastewater from a single household.
The Septic Tank Process
Curious about how the process works? The outlets normally divide the disposed of water into three compartments before it is excreted out of the system.
There are three layers that build in the septic tank once all the waste is entered into it. These three layers are namely:
- Effluent
- Sludge
- Scum
#1. Effluent
This is the part that fills the tank. It’s basically watery waste.
#2. Sludge
Sludge comprises all the solids and the side results (by-products) of bacterial decomposition.
#3. Scum
Scum is the top layer of fats, grease, and other oils. Really, a septic tank looks like a settling pond because all the heavy solids sink to the bottom and the lighter insoluble items like oils and grease stick to the top.
The solids are separated from the water through filters and different chambers. The large portion is covered by water (known as the “affluent”) and the smaller chamber houses the solid waste. There are drain holes in the tank that allow the water to reach the gravel. Solids are prevented by a filter from leaving the septic tank with the help of a filter.
Septic Tank Maintenance
Most septic tanks operate for years and their life length can be prolonged through proper maintenance such as septic tank pumping. You need to get an annual check by a professional who will assess the condition of your septic tank and recommend treatment.
Keep the following things away from the drain in your house:
- Wipes and tissues
- Pads and tampons
- Cat litter
- Baby diapers
- Paint
- Cigarettes
If a septic tank is not pumped regularly, it is possible for different items to stick in the filters, and eventually, this could lead to blocked chambers and clogging. To avoid a septic tank repair that could cost thousands down the road, you need to make sure that you are following the guidelines of septic tank maintenance.
A frequently maintained septic tank can actually last for almost over 25 years, which is a huge lifespan so long as you take care of the septic system.
Thinking About Getting A Septic Tank?
Septic tanks are becoming extremely popular despite modern sewage systems. As many look to live in the countryside and escape the city, septic tanks will grow back in popularity. If you are looking into a house with a septic tank, make sure you understand how they are designed, how they work, and where yours is located.
It’s always a good idea to get the tank pumped and inspected if you are interested in a particular property, or know the right questions to ask if you’re buying a house. Good luck with that property and come to this blog for other construction and home renovation ideas and concepts.
FAQ: Septic Tanks
What Is a Septic Tank?
A septic tank is an underwater tank installed in a household that treats wastewater and removes toxins before it is drained into nature or recycled.
Why Are Septic Tanks Becoming Popular Again?
Septic tanks are gaining popularity as more people move to the suburbs or countryside to escape densely populated areas and to avoid environmental hazards.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Septic Tank?
Septic tanks are environmentally-friendly and cost-effective. They do not contaminate natural resources, and if properly maintained, can last for decades.
What Materials Are Septic Tanks Made Of?
Septic tanks are typically made of fiberglass, plastic, or concrete.
How Does a Septic Tank Work?
A septic tank treats wastewater by dividing it into three layers: effluent, sludge, and scum. The effluent is watery waste, sludge consists of solids and by-products of bacterial decomposition, and scum includes fats, grease, and oils.
What Is the Design of a Septic Tank?
A septic tank usually has two chambers separated by a wall. The larger chamber holds wastewater while solids settle in the smaller chamber. Water exits through a T-shaped outlet.
How Is Wastewater Processed in a Septic Tank?
Wastewater is divided into three layers: effluent, sludge, and scum. Filters and different chambers separate solids from water, which then drains through holes into the gravel.
What Maintenance Is Required for a Septic Tank?
Septic tanks need regular pumping and annual checks by professionals to assess condition and recommend treatment. It is crucial to avoid disposing of certain items such as wipes, tissues, pads, cat litter, diapers, paint, and cigarettes.
How Long Can a Septic Tank Last?
With proper maintenance, a septic tank can last over 25 years.
What Should I Consider If I’m Thinking About Getting a Septic Tank?
Understand how septic tanks are designed, how they work, and their location. If buying a property with a septic tank, get it pumped and inspected, and ask the right questions about its condition and maintenance history.
Can Septic Tanks Be Used in Areas with Modern Sewage Systems?
Yes, many people prefer septic tanks even in areas with modern sewage systems, especially in rural or suburban settings where they offer more control over waste management and environmental impact.
What Are the Signs That a Septic Tank Needs Maintenance?
Slow draining toilets or sinks, unpleasant odors, pooling water or lush grass over the septic tank area, and sewage backups are signs that a septic tank needs maintenance.
Is It Expensive to Maintain a Septic Tank?
Regular maintenance, such as pumping every 3-5 years, is relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of repairs or replacement if the system fails. Proper maintenance helps avoid costly issues down the line.
What Are the Environmental Benefits of Using a Septic Tank?
Septic tanks help protect the environment by preventing contamination of natural resources and reducing the risk of pollution compared to centralized sewage systems.
