How a Septic Tank System Works

The important role of septic tanks in residential waste management can't be understated. They ensure proper sewage disposal in locations that aren't connected to municipal sewer lines. Rural and suburban areas mostly rely on septic tank systems due to restricted access to centralized sewage treatment facilities. 

However, as a private septic tank homeowner, paying special attention to the maintenance of septic tanks is substantial. Despite regular maintenance, unexpected plumbing problems can arise. In case of unforeseen emergencies, seek assistance from a reliable emergency plumber in Reno, NV, to restore your system's efficient functioning. Additionally, understanding how a septic tank works is vital to keep your systems running smoothly and avoid costly repairs later. Let's explore this blog to learn all about how septic tank systems work.  

How Does a Septic Tank System Work?

A septic tank system is primarily an expansive underground tank constructed of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic located near the property it serves. The mechanism functions in a relatively straightforward yet effective way, explained  below:

• Waste Collection

First and foremost, the prime responsibility of a septic tank is to collect household wastewater that flows through plumbing lines.

• Separation

After the waste is collected, the solid waste settles in the tank's bottom, forming a layer of sludge, while lighter materials such as grease and oil float to the surface, producing a layer of scum. Meanwhile, liquid waste or effluent stays in the intermediate layer.

• Anaerobic Digestion

Naturally presented beneficial bacteria in the tank degrade solid waste through a process known as anaerobic digestion. This procedure aids in decomposing organic materials by reducing the solid volume and converting it into sludge.

• Filtration and Digestion

The liquid effluent, which is considerably clearer after the separation process, exits the tank via an outflow pipe and reaches the drain or leach field. This location contains perforated pipes buried in gravel-filled trenches, allowing wastewater to soak into the surrounding soil. The soil serves as a natural filter, cleaning the wastewater by eliminating hazardous germs and contaminants.

• Natural Treatment

As the effluent passes through natural filtration and biological processes in the soil, it is treated and finally returns to the groundwater, completing the cycle. Additionally, to ensure this procedure goes smoothly, it's important to invest in septic pumping in Sparks every 3-5 years from professional plumbers. 

Significance of Regular Maintenance

While septic tank systems are built to last numerous years and perform efficiently, they need periodic maintenance to maintain their optimal functionality. Investing time in their upkeep may help you avert malfunctions and prolong their lifespan.

•  Septic Pumping

Since solid waste accumulates over time, it requires periodic pumping to avoid nasty clogs and backfills. Hire professional plumbing services that offer septic pumping, guaranteeing the tank is drained at prescribed intervals, typically 3-5 years. However, the frequency of pumping a septic tank depends primarily on tank size, consumption, tank type, and more. Thus, it's best to have a professional inspect your house and advise you on how often you should pump your septic tank. 

• Inspections

Routine inspections by skilled plumbers or septic system specialists help to discover any indicators of damage, leaks, or other problems that might jeopardize the system's performance. Early detection enables quick repairs, avoiding costly issues down the line.

• Proper Waste Disposal

It's important to take care of what you put down the drain. Treating your drains appropriately may help minimize excessive accumulation of solids and non-biodegradable items in the septic tank. Don't flush sanitary products, wipes, paper towels, grease, and chemicals since these are detrimental to the septic tank and may disturb the system's equilibrium and cause clogs.
 
Final Thoughts

A well-maintained septic tank ensures proper wastewater management in areas lacking municipal sewage systems. Understanding how these systems work may assist homeowners in better taking care of their septic tanks and increase their longevity and peak performance. Invest in periodic septic tank pumping to avoid unnecessary plumbing disasters and expensive repairs.