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Advice on Maintaining Your Septic System

How does a septic system work?

Septic systems typically have two major components: a septic tank and subsurface disposal field (also known as a leachfield or drainfield). The tank is a watertight receptacle designed to receive domestic wastes. The lighter solids called scum (mainly grease) float to the top. The heavy solids settle to the bottom where bacterial action partially converts them to a digested sludge. The liquid portion in the middle called effluent or "gray water" flows out of the tank through perforated pipes to the leachfield which is composed of sewer rock. Here, remaining solids further decompose and the liquid is absorbed into the soil, evaporates or is taken up by plants.

TIP: Proper maintenance through regular pumping will remove excess solids and sludge, thereby extending the life of the average septic system by many years.

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