☰ Menu
× Close

What Is a Septic Tank?

Most people do not understand what septic tanks are and how they work. This is because they are no longer used in most households. For example, if you stay in a house that is linked to the main sewer line, chances are you have never come across a septic tank before. However, for those of us that use them, septic tanks are of vital importance. Read on for a breakdown of what septic tanks are, how they function, and what a septic tank service entails.

What Is A Septic Tank?

A septic tank is a sedimentation tank that is used for treating wastewater. This unit makes use of biological decomposition and drainage. These are natural processes used to treat all the wastewater from your home’s plumbing. For example, all water that comes from the kitchen drains, and laundry is channeled toward a septic tank for treatment.

Septic tanks have a relatively uncomplicated design. They are built underground and constructed in such a way that they are watertight. Most septic tanks are rectangular or round, and they are made using plastic, fiberglass, or concrete. These tanks have two or three compartments and have outlets that prevent dirty water and slum from entering into the drain field area.

How do Septic Tanks Work?

Septic tanks are basic onsite sewer facilities. They only provide basic treatment and enable the safe disposal of wastewater. However, a lot of them are still used in rural homes. One compartment of the tank serves to receive dirty water, and the other is where the decomposition takes place. They also have a leach field or drain field. The latter is where bacteria complete the decomposition. The water is then purified as it slowly leeches into the soil.

Maintaining a Healthy Septic System

To protect your family’s health, it is crucial to maintain a healthy septic system. Most home septic tanks must be cleaned every three to five years. Apart from cleaning, you must also regularly consult a septic tank service to ensure that yours is functioning properly. You don’t want to end up in a situation where dirty water is being released into the environment. Regular septic tank service and maintenance can help you avoid a septic tank catastrophe.

Septic tanks are useful units that allow you to purify the wastewater produced in your home. Although these tanks are not that popular in newer homes, they can still be found in many older ones. For your septic tank to serve its purpose, regularly scheduled septic tank service is needed.