An Overview of a Septic Tank
A septic tank is an underground container made from concrete, plastic, or fibre materials. It is a wastewater management system for domestic and commercial purposes. A septic tank holds the domestic wastewater and performs a specific decomposition to separate the sludge and scum. After the decomposition process, it smoothly discharges the wastewater to the drain field system.
Septic tanks are commonly used in rural areas where a municipal wastewater management system is not available. These tanks use bacteria for the decomposing process, where light substances sink in the water and greasy material floats on the top.
Components of the Septic System
A septic system typically consists of a few main components that play a crucial role in receiving the household wastewater and performing further processing:
- Septic tank: It is a water-tight container that holds the wastewater from houses. In a septic tank, scum floats on the top and sludge settles. Then the liquid is transferred to the drainfield.
- Drainfield: This system contains perforated pipes that are laid out in trenches. It further sends the water to the surrounding soil.
- Pipes: These pipes connect the septic tank and drainfield. It carries the flow of water from the septic tank and drops into the soil absorption field.
- Distribution box: As the name suggests, it distributes the wastewater in the distribution box.
- Soil: It plays a crucial role in filtering and treating the wastewater.
Various Types of Septic Tanks
Septic tanks are available in a vast variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. The most common types of septic tanks are the following:
- Conventional septic tanks
- Chamber septic tank
- Aerobic septic system
- Septic tank with frame
- Mound septic system
- Sand filter septic system
- Evapotranspiration bed septic tank
Key Benefits of a Septic Tank
- Budget-friendly: The process of septic tank installation and maintenance is cost-effective for managing the wastewater.
- Reliable and durable: They are designed to be durable and long-lasting. Regular maintenance can increase the lifespan of septic tanks. Its average lifespan can last between 40 and 50 years.
- Environmentally friendly: It is a practical and eco-friendly solution for managing household wastewater. It does not require electricity and minimises the water pollution.
- Ideal for rural areas: A centralised sewerage system is not available in most of the rural areas, a septic tank is a perfect option.
- Self-sufficiency: Septic tanks do not require additional power sources to manage the wastewater.
Maintenance Tips for Septic Tank Failure
- Regular inspection: Regular inspection can save your septic tank from potential future issues. It can save your repair costs and identify any failures early.
- Avoid flushing solid materials: Avoid flushing solid, greasy materials and chemicals, as it can lead to sewage backups, unpleasant smells, and flooding.
- Protection of the drain field: Avoid planting near the septic system and drain field because it allows roots to grow in the drain field.
- Schedule regular pumping: Conduct the regular pumping, which helps to increase the lifespan of the septic tank.
Indicating Signs of Septic Tank Failure
If you notice any of the given signs regarding your septic tank, then immediately call the professional drainage service provider:
- Hearing the gurgling sound from the drainage and plumbing fixtures is a sign of a blocked system.
- Foul and bad smells indicate that your tank is full or has other issues.
- The growth of green grass or standing water near the drainage can cause a faulty septic tank.
- If the water is draining slowly from your toilets and sinks, it is a sign of a blockage.
- The backing up of the sewage system is a warning sign that the water in the septic tank is overflowing.
Conclusion
A septic tank uses beneficial bacteria to separate the solid and greasy elements from the household wastewater. When the wastewater drop into drainfield, soil do futher process of filtration and absorption. Proper installation and maintenance can increase the longevity of a septic tank. Fast Drains offers 24-hour drainage service according to high standards.
