A septic system is a system that helps remove sewage from a home. Wastewater enters the system through the pipes in the house and settles at the bottom of the tank. It contains beneficial anaerobic bacteria that break down solid matter and release fats, grease, and oil. The byproducts of these bacteria rise to the top of the tank and are separated from the wastewater by baffles. The rest of the wastewater flows through the outlet pipes to a disposal bed or drain field where it is safely filtered by the soil.
Do not put dairy products in a septic tank
Milk and other dairy products are particularly problematic for a septic tank. These products have high-fat content and can clog the pipes and cause problems for the septic system. They also add to the layer of solids at the bottom of the tank. In order to avoid this, only biodegradable food products should be put down into the tank.
While it may seem tempting to simply throw spoiled milk down the drain, this is not a good practice. Milk is among the highest polluting substances on the planet, and when it is not properly disposed of, the bacteria that feed on it pollute the waterways. Those bacteria are harmful to aquatic life.
Avoid contact with sewage during an emergency
It is essential to avoid contact with sewage during an emergency situation. This liquid can be harmful to people, pets, and the environment. In addition to being a health risk, it can also lead to damage to property. To prevent contact with sewage, it is important to wear protective clothing, eye protection, and goggles. You should also wear gloves and boots to protect your skin.
Sewage contains pathogens, which can cause a variety of diseases, including diarrhea. The contamination can be caused by bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and protozoans. The number of pathogens will vary, but the more sewage is present, the greater the risk. The best way to deal with this situation is to wash your hands often and dispose of human waste properly.
Getting a septic system inspection
Getting a septic system inspection is one of the first steps to prevent potential problems. These inspections can be done by certified professionals. Depending on the size and type of your septic system, you should have them done every three to five years. Your technician can also check for signs of hydraulic stress, such as water that is filling up the drain field quickly.
Having a septic system inspection can prevent you from having to deal with costly problems. A visual inspection is a quick overview that involves asking a few questions and running water through the house. You can also check for signs of a cesspool, such as standing water. A full inspection will give you a full picture of the system's health.
Maintenance
Taking care of a septic tank is an important part of maintaining your home. You should have it emptied at least once a year, and clean it out regularly to avoid buildup. The buildup in your septic tank can interfere with the bacteria in your septic system, and it needs to be cleaned regularly to ensure your home's health. Keeping your septic tank clean is also a legal requirement.
Regular pumping is also a crucial part of septic tank maintenance. Sludge can accumulate over time and can cause the septic tank to become overloaded, resulting in an inefficient drainage system. To avoid such problems, pumping out the sludge layer every three years is recommended. If you're unsure of how to do this, you can hire a professional sanitary engineer or a local septic pumping service.
Myths about septic systems
There are several myths surrounding septic systems. One of the biggest is that they contribute to poor water quality and pollution. But this is simply not true. Properly maintained septic systems actually contribute to the cleanliness of the water in the community. Septic systems also work better than many other systems in terms of environmental impact. In addition, septic systems do not require the use of chemicals or additives, which are generally considered to be harmful.
While a septic system may not be maintenance-free, it is essential to keep up with it to maintain it properly. If you do not perform pumping regularly, solids build up in the drain field and can lead to a failing system. A well-maintained septic system can last more than 40 years if maintained properly. The best way to ensure that your septic system is in good condition is to schedule regular pumping, such as every two to three years.
No comments yet