Septic Tanks Are Important for Wastewater Treatment

Septic tanks are important in treating wastewater and preventing the pollution of underground soil and nearby water bodies. They are particularly useful in rural areas, where centralised sewage treatment systems are not commonly used.

Septic tanks are critical components of the overall septic system and the proper management of wastewater from your home. It is therefore important to anticipate septic tank problems and to be prepared to repair/replace them in a timely manner if they fail.

How the Septic System works

As water from the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry leaves your house, it drains into a main drainage pipe and into the septic tank. The tank itself is normally located underground and at a short distance from your home.

Most septic tanks are made of concrete, polyethylene or fiberglass, and are watertight. The primary purpose of the tank is to hold wastewater for long enough to allow for the separation of solids from liquids. The solids settle at the bottom, while liquids in the form of scum settle at the top.

The liquid scum is then released into the drainfield, where it trickles into the soil through a series of perforate pipes. As it drains underground, harmful bacteria and other materials are filtered out and the treated wastewater is discharged underground.

Problems with Septic tanks

Septic tanks are not fail proof, and it is only a matter of time before your tank experiences problems. Wet weather can pose additional challenges to septic tanks due to overflowing and the release of effluent that backs up your drainage pipes.

The drainfield in which the septic tank releases materials to is also prone to getting clogged. This can occur if the tank is not regularly drained or the soil does not allow for properly drainage.

Signs of a faulty septic tank

• Rise of effluent above ground level
• Foul odors arising from the septic tank
• Clogged drainage pipes in your home
• Slow flushing of toilets

Fixing Faulty Septic tanks

There are several steps you can take to address a faulty septic tank:

• Drain the tank at least once a year
• Fix or replace clogged pipes leading into the septic tank
• Replace the perforated drainfield pipes to improve drainage
• Replace the tank if it is damaged

Seek the advice of a plumber if you are experiencing drainage issues in your home as a result of your septic tank. Plumbers can help with designing a solution that fits your particular drainage situation. 

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