Septic systems are often found in rural areas with no access to public sewers. While they have the benefit of not relying on centralized sewer systems, homeowners are responsible for maintenance. Septic service involves cleaning, inspecting, pumping and other services to keep the system in working order.
When a person in a home uses the toilet, shower or any other water-consuming fixture, waste passes through pipes into the septic tank buried outside. The larger solid pieces fall to the bottom of the tank where they are broken down by bacteria into sludge. The liquid waste flows through an outlet baffle to a series of perforated pipes that seep into the ground, allowing it to be naturally filtered by the soil.
Why Septic Service is Key for a Healthy Home and Environment
Bacteria also produce gases, such as hydrogen sulfide (which smells like rotten eggs). The gas is released through a vent pipe in the lid of the tank and out into the drain field. The vent helps prevent a build-up of pressure that could block the flow of wastewater and cause clogs.
The best way to avoid septic tank problems is to be careful with what goes down the drains. This means using non-toxic cleaners, only putting food waste and grease into the garbage, not flushing items such as coffee grounds, baby wipes, diapers or sanitary napkins, and keeping the drain field free of grass and long-rooted plants. A septic tank should be inspected and pumped regularly, depending on use, with the frequency based on how much the homeowner uses. Regular inspections, maintenance, and cleaning of the septic tank can extend its lifespan and help to avoid costly problems down the road.
Busy Bee Septic and Excavating LLC
114 Houston St, Maybrook, NY 12543, United States
(845)294-5771
