Septic tanks are essential for homes that aren’t connected to a public sewer system. These underground tanks do a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to wastewater treatment. However, there’s more to them than meets the eye. Here are five cool septic tank facts that may surprise you.
1. Septic Tanks Are Like Tiny Ecosystems
Septic tanks are home to a unique ecosystem of bacteria, and these bacteria break down the waste into solids and liquids. The solids, called sludge, settle at the bottom of the tank, while the liquid, called effluent, moves to the drain field.
2. The Drain Field: Nature’s Filter
The drain field is a network of pipes buried in the ground. It’s where the liquid waste from the septic tank goes. The soil acts as a natural filter that slowly absorbs the water and allows it to seep into the ground. It’s important to avoid putting anything heavy on the drain field, as it can damage the pipes.
3. Septic Tanks Need Regular Pumping
Over time, the solid waste in the septic tank builds up and needs to be pumped out. This is a job for a professional septic tank pumper. They use a special truck to remove the sludge and pump it to a wastewater treatment facility, and they know how to work with waste in a way that is safe.
4. What You Shouldn’t Flush
It’s important to flush only human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Avoid flushing things like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and cigarette butts. Even if items’ labels say that they are flushable, it’s still not advisable to flush them. This includes flushable wipes and cat litter. These items can clog your pipes and seriously damage your septic system.
5. Septic Systems and the Environment
Well-maintained septic systems are good for the environment. They help to reduce pollution by treating wastewater on-site. However, to allow these systems to do their job properly, you need to follow proper septic system care to protect groundwater and prevent contamination.
If you fail to maintain your septic system, and it contaminates the environment around your home, you can face legal penalties such as steep fines. This is especially true if the contaminants enter nearby waterways.
To ensure that your septic tank functions optimally and lasts a long time, it’s important to schedule regular maintenance. Experts recommend you do this annually. For maintenance and septic tank inspections in Houston, TX, call Brown Aerobic Service Company right away.