Septic System Basics

Septic systems, it is something that few people want to think about, let alone understand. If you are not on city or other municipal sewer, not knowing the basics about how your septic system works can lead to problems. Knowing the basics will help you troubleshoot and understand issues that may come up. Septic systems carry waste water away from the home or building. All of the internal drain lines combine into a main drain that empties into a special holding tank, called a septic tank. This tank allows the waste water to settle. Solid waste sinks to the bottom and foam and light papers rise to the top. This leaves a middle liquid layer. This takes up the bulk of the space in the tank. Septic tanks have outlets that run into a drainage field. This drain field consists of several semi-permeable pipes that allow waste water to seep into the ground in the drain field. Liquid waster runs into the drain field once it reaches a certain level. In most septic systems this is done through gravity, since all lines are installed with a slight decline, away from the house and septic tank. This is an incredibly efficient and reliable system. Taking care of your septic system is very important. There are chemicals and treatments that are used to help break down waste. This allows more efficient dispersal of waste water and can help extend the lifespan of pipes, tank, and drain field. Inevitably, the septic system will need to be emptied. This may be simply because the tank is full, or for more serious repairs. Visual inspections of the tank may require that it is drained. If a septic system is not draining properly, Redshaw Plumbing & Drainage recommend having the septic tank drained will restore proper functionality.