The Septic Tank

Wastewater and solids exit the home through toilets and drains and end up in the septic tank. The function of the septic tank is to separate solid material from the wastewater. The solids are broken down by naturally occurring bacteria that inhabit the tank.

Septic tanks may contain one or two chambers. Scum is the material, which floats on the top of the water in the tank where aerobic (air breathing) bacteria digest it. Sludge is undigested solid matter, which settles to the bottom of the tank. Here anaerobic (without air) bacteria digest some of the matter, the undigested part must be removed periodically by a licensed septic system pumping service every 2 - 5 years depending on use.

A septic tank that is not pumped on a regular basis can send undigested solids and organic matter to the drain field. This material will eventually clog the soil in the drain field and causing flooding and total failure of the system.

Avoid problems: have your tank pumped regularly by a licensed septic service company.

When soil floods natural bacteria colonies will die off and no longer keep the system in balance.