How Does a Septic System Work?
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A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system commonly used in areas where there is no access to public sewer systems. The system consists of a septic tank and a drain field.
Septic tank: The septic tank is a large, watertight container buried underground, typically made of concrete or plastic. It receives all the wastewater from the house, including water from toilets, sinks, showers, and laundry.
Inside the tank, solid waste settles to the bottom and forms a layer of sludge, while oil and grease float to the top and form a layer of scum. The liquid waste, or effluent, is in the middle layer, and exits the tank into the drain field.
Drain field: The drain field is a shallow, covered excavation made in unsaturated soil. The effluent flows into perforated pipes laid in the drain field, where it is slowly released into the soil.
The soil acts as a natural filter, removing harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from the wastewater before it re-enters the groundwater system. The drain field must be large enough to handle the volume of effluent, and the soil must be suitable for effective treatment.
Soil absorption: The soil acts as a natural filter and treatment system for the effluent. The effluent flows into the soil through the perforations in the pipes and is treated as it percolates through the soil.
The soil microorganisms and other naturally occurring processes remove harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from the wastewater before it re-enters the groundwater system.
Overall, a septic system relies on natural processes and careful management to ensure that wastewater is treated effectively and safely before it re-enters the environment. Regular maintenance and careful use of the system are important to ensure its long-term effectiveness.
Don’t worry- I will help you navigate the septic system and make sure we have experts take a look at the system before purchasing!
