All about septic systems

So, how do septic systems work?

There are many different kinds of septic systems. While some differ from others, they all work with the same design. All the water from inside the house flows into the septic tank where it separates between scum and sludge. The heavier, solid materials form sludge and collect at the bottom of the tank. After the separations process the liquid portion flows out of the tank through the outlet pipe. The baffle wall, or sanitary tee, prevents any solids from going into the drainfield. However, if a tank is not pumped regularly, solids in the bottom of the tank can reach the bottom of the outlet tee and be forced into the drainfield, creating a blockage. Nothing but water should exit the tank to enter the drainfield. Systems installed in the early 2000's and preceding include an effluent filter that takes the place of a sanitary tee.

What is the best way to take care of my system?

Being proactive with your septic system is one of the best things that you can do to maximize efficiency and prolong its lifetimes. It is very important that you do not drive on, build or place heavy objects on your system, doing so can cause problems.

Excessive water usage is not good for your system. While your system is designed to use 60 gallons per person per day, it is recommended that you don't exceed 80% for extended periods of time.

Be cautious with plants around your drainfield, tree roots can get into the drainfield and cause blockages.

The state recommends that you have your tank pumped every three to five years, and clean your effluent filter annually to prevent backups.

Did you know?

Here are a few things that are commonly found in septic systems that are harmful:

Flushed non biodegradable items - Flushing things such as gum, q-tips, most feminine products, grease, oil, cigarettes and leftover food can be quite harmful to a septic tank
Overuse of bleach - Many people clean and wash with bleach; however, excessive use of bleach can kill the natural bacteria that beaks down waste in your septic system
Having the water softener backwash plumbed into the septic tank - Too much water going into the tank can cause it to overflow or back up into the house. Additionally, the septic system is not designed to break down the salts and chemicals in these units
Heavy medication or chemotherapy - Heavy medication or chemotherapy can disrupt the bacteria breakdown in your septic tank. If someone in your home is on these medications, it's a good idea to have your system pumped about once a year

System maintenance

1. Filter cleaning

Septic systems installed after 2000, will typically have an effluent filter on the outlet end of the septic tank. The water passes through the effluent filter before it enters the drainfield. This filter helps to catch debris from entering the drainfield and potentially causing a blockage. If the effluent filter gets stopped up with debris, you could experience signs of back up in your home. We recommend having the effluent filter cleaned annually to prevent back-ups. However, if someone in your home consumes a plentiful amount of seeds or legumes, we would recommend cleaning the filter bi-annually.

2. Copper sulfate

Copper Sulfate is an additive that helps to prevent root intrusion in your septic system. We recommend adding copper sulfate during the growing seasons in the spring and summer.

3. Sludge test

A sludge test is performed to measure the amount of sludge (the build up at the bottom of your tank) and scum (the build up at the top of your tank). When these build ups are measured, we compare the amount to the volume of water in your tank. When the ratio reaches 25%-33%, that is when we know that your system is due for pumping.

4. Pumping

A general rule of thumb is to have your septic system pumped every 3-5 years. A sludge test can help to check up on exactly when you are due for pumping