Understanding How Your Septic Tank Works And What You Can Do To Keep It Functioning Properly

Far too many people fail to understand how their septic tank really works. As a result, homeowners will often behave in a way that actually prevents their septic tank from working properly rather than encouraging functionality. As a result, many homeowners will eventually find themselves dealing with expensive repairs as the result of septic system failure. You can avoid this type of issue by learning more about how your septic system works and what you can do to ensure that it continues to function properly.

Understanding How Your Septic Tank Works

Each time waste water is flushed down your drains, it will end up inside your septic tank. Once inside the tank, heavy solid wastes will begin to sink to the bottom of the tank. This solid waste is known as sludge. Lighter waste will float on top of the waste water. This lighter waste is known as scum. In between the layers of sludge and scum will be clean water that can be disposed of in a drainage field located on your property.

Over time, bacteria levels inside your septic tank will work to break down the layers of sludge and scum in order to allow for the processing of more solid waste. However, not all solid waste can be eliminated in this manner. Consequently, the tank will need to be pumped every few years in order to ensure enough room remains for the separation of solid waste and waste water.

What You Can Do To Keep It Functioning Properly

There are many steps that you can take on a daily basis in order to ensure your septic tank continues to work properly. For instance, one of the most effective ways to encourage proper function is by limiting your water consumption. This is because the more waste water your septic tank is required to process, the less time there will be to separate solid waste from the water before some waste water must be released into the drainage field. This can result in solid waste clogging the drainage field and ultimately lead to sewage backing up into your home. Taking small steps, such as turning off the water while you brush your teeth, can help to greatly reduce your household's water consumption.

Another important factor to keep in mind is that not all solid waste can be broken down within a septic tank. For instance, feminine products, cigarette butts, and diapers cannot be processed through this waste system. Consequently, flushing these items down the toilet will inevitably lead to the need for more frequent tank pumping. By resolving yourself to flushing only water, human waste, and septic safe toilet tissue, you will be able to avoid the buildup of solid waste that cannot be processed by your septic system.

For more information, contact Country Pump Out in Grande Prairie or a similar location.


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