How Your Septic System Works

Septic System Overview from Bergendal Septic Services

Water and waste exit the house through a pipe to the drain field. In the tank, the waste separates into:

The incoming water will push the water from the “Clear Zone” (B) through the filter and drain field. The filter prevents floating solids from entering and clogging the drain field. Bacteria work to break down the settled solids in a process called partial decomposition. Zones A and C are not meant to enter the drain field and must be periodically removed to prevent build-up.

For a more detailed explanation, please click on the following button to view our Homeowners Guide To Septic Systems.

Homeowners Guide To Septic Systems

Preventive Maintenance

Servicing: Routine maintenance and pumping are required to maximize system life. Many counties require an inspection every two or three years to determine if pumping is necessary.

Note: If the septic tank is not maintained, increased scum and sludge depths will result, thus decreasing the liquid volume. This reduces detention time, so less settling occurs, and the liquid will be much higher in suspended solids. The suspended solids eventually settle out in the soil infiltration system, which can lead to the premature failure of the drain field.

What Are The Sections of A Septic System

Purpose

To begin the process of treating wastewater by providing settling and flotation and bacterial digestion of solids and storage.

Scum

The floating solids. Typically fats, oils, greases, and lighter solids that may remain floating or become waterlogged and sink into the lower zones.

Clear Zone

Not highly treated but clarified compared to the wastewater entering the tank and the larger particles that have either floated to the top or sunk to the bottom. The liquid leaving the septic tank should come from the clear zone to avoid clogging the soil absorption area.

Sludge

The settling solids. In part, heavier solids or scum particles that have become waterlogged.

Harmful Products

A septic system is designed to work on digested waste. Anything you cannot digest will only add to the solid build-up in the tank, as the bacteria will not be able to digest it either. The septic tank is a living environment that needs food to function properly. It is essential to avoid killing the bacteria with harsh chemicals and drugs.

A Partial Listing of Things That You Should Not Flush:

Leave a check for the pumping on the door with the county paperwork for us to leave filled out for you to mail in yourself.

Soaps Containing Emulsifiers

Cigarette Butts, Sanitary Products, Condoms, Baby Wipes, Diapers, Facial Tissue and Toweling

Seeds, Peels, Coffee Grounds, Grease and Cooking Oil

Paint, Thinner, and Varnish

Antifreeze, Gas, or Oil Products

Leftover Drugs

Preventive maintenance is the best way to increase the longevity of your septic system.

For More information or to schedule your septic pumping, call us today at (608) 754-7816.

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