Septic systems are an important feature of residences and commercial spaces, particularly in rural areas where connection to municipal sewage systems may not be available. These systems are designed to treat wastewater efficiently and safely so that it can be disposed of without causing damage to the environment or producing any health concerns for people and animals. The following items are the components of a septic system and the purpose they serve in keeping the system running smoothly.
Tank
A tank is a key part of any septic system setup. It is a large, underground container made from concrete, fiberglass, or plastic and designed to store wastewater from a home or business. The tank serves the important purpose of allowing solids to settle to the bottom and oils and greases to rise to the top. This separation process is necessary for the system to function correctly.
The solids sink to the bottom of the tank, where they are deconstructed by naturally occurring bacteria, a process known as anaerobic digestion. This is critical for transforming the solids into sludge and diminishing the container’s volume of waste. Eventually, sludge accumulation must be removed to prevent it from flowing into the drain field.
Drainfield
The drain field, leach, or absorption field is important in a septic system. It is tasked with receiving the wastewater treated in the tank and dispersing it into the ground. The purpose of the drain field is to allow the leftover wastewater to be naturally purified by the soil before draining back into the groundwater system.
The drain field is usually placed downstream of the septic tank and comprises a collection of pipes or compartments buried in gravel or other absorbent materials. These pipes or compartments are designed to evenly spread the wastewater over a large area to maximize the contact between the wastewater and the soil. This contact allows for the natural filtration and purification of the water.
The soil in the drain field provides a habitat for beneficial bacteria, which further break down organic matter in the wastewater. Finally, the purified water can be re-released into the groundwater system and used for irrigation, or it can re-enter the natural water cycle.
Pump
A septic system pump, or an effluent pump, is an indispensable component of certain septic systems. It is necessary when the septic tank is situated at a higher elevation than the drain field or when the drain field is a significant distance from the tank. In such conditions, a pump is required to move the partially treated wastewater from the tank to the drain field.
Usually, the pump is housed in a separate tank known as a pump tank between the septic tank and the drain field. The pump tank contains a float switch that controls the pump, activating and deactivating it according to the changing wastewater levels.
Filter
A septic system filter, also known as an effluent filter, is an essential part of a septic system. This filter captures solids and other particles before the partially treated wastewater reaches the drain field. Doing so helps prevent the drain field from becoming blocked, which can lead to backups and expensive repairs. The filter comprises screens or cartridges specifically built to trap small particles and particles, allowing only partially treated wastewater to pass into the drain field.
The filter shields the drain field and other septic system elements from clogs and damage caused by solid materials and other particles. Without a filter, these solid materials and debris can make their way into the drain field, hindering its ability to absorb and treat wastewater by causing clogs in the soil.
At Salina Septic Service Septic Service, we understand the importance of having a properly functioning septic system. For this reason, we are devoted to offering our customers the best quality services for septic system inspections, repairs, and maintenance. Our team of experienced plumbers will be happy to help you with any queries you might have about your system. In addition to our septic system services, we offer a range of other services in Hutchinson, KS, and its surrounding area, including portable restroom rentals, hand washing stations, and grease trap cleaning. Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or contractor, we have the expertise and equipment to meet your needs. Contact Salina Septic Service Septic Service today for more information or to schedule an appointment.