How Do Septic Tanks Work?
Septic tanks are an efficient way of disposing waste from your home. These systems consistently and safely remove, sort, and disperse wastewater from your home without you having to give it a second thought. Perhaps you still wonder, though, how septic tanks work?
Septic System Components
There are variations between different septic systems, but the underlying principle is always the same. Your septic system needs three primary components to function. These are drainage pipes, a septic tank, and a drain field. However, you can customize your septic system a bit. Some common optional add-ons include alarm systems and pressurized pumps.
How the System Works
Water and waste leave your home through the drainage pipes to enter the septic tank. In the septic tank, solids sink to the bottom while fats and oils float to the top, naturally sorting the waste from your home. Over time, naturally occurring bacteria will break down the solids to be drained out with liquid wastewater or effluent. This water drains through gravity to the drain field, where it percolates into the soil. The drain field soil then treats and disperses the wastewater, removing harmful viruses and bacteria and turning it back into groundwater.
Common Septic System Issues
The most common issue with a septic system is clogging. You should always be mindful not to flush materials that aren’t biodegradable and won’t be broken down by bacteria. Tree roots also may damage your system. Also, detergents high in phosphates may cause algae growth in your septic tank, which may cause blockage.
If you’re interested in installing a septic system for your home or all other San Antonio septic services, we’re here to help. We know septic systems! Contact Busy B Septic for all your septic tank problems, questions, and concerns.
