Septic Systems

What is a Septic System?

A septic system will be used when there is no municipal sewer system available to homeowners. The system will typically be located in the homeowner's yard. A septic system is a self-contained underground waste-water treatment system which uses natural processes to treat the wastewater. A septic system typically contains two main parts, the septic and the drainfield. The septic tank is a water proof tank, made of either concrete or reinforced fiberglass. The septic tank receives all waste water from all drain points in the home. When the waste reaches the tank, it separates into three layers.

The heavier solids will sink to the bottom and form sludge. Oil, grease, organic matter and anything else that is lighter than water will collect at the top as scum. These layers will remain in the tank and a bacteria found naturally in the waste water will break these two layers down. Anything that cannot be broken down by the bacteria will remain in the tank until it is pumped. The tanks are air tight and are so efficient that when water goes into the tank, the same amount will go out into the drainfield.

In between the sludge and scum levels is a water layer (also called effluent) which will drain by gravity or be pumped out into the drainfield. The drainfield is a series of trenches designed specifically for the type of system being installed. The water is then slowly filtered back into the ground and further purification is done by the soils naturally. The effluent must pass through three feet of dry soil to be completely treated.