What Does A Sanitary T Do In A Septic Tank? (TOP 5 Tips)

So what is a tee? It is a device which directs the flow of wastewater in and out of your septic tank. They can be made of clay, concrete, or PVC pipe. The inlet tee directs the flow of wastewater into your septic tank, and prevents the scum layer in the tank from being disturbed.

The Role of the Sanitary Tee: One of the MOST IMPORTANT components in a septic tank, the sanitary tee helps regulate an opening so that solid waste, grease and other trash does not enter the drain field. If the sludge layer at the bottom of the tank and/or the scum layer at the top of the tank get too close to the exit of the outlet tee.

What is the purpose of a sanitary tee?

A Sanitary tee refers to a plumbing fitting used to drain water and vent the plumbing system. It connects the branch line to a vertical line. If you view the tee from the side, you will see a downward sweep, which is molded into the tee. It helps liquids to go toward the drain.

What is a sanitary tee in a septic system?

The purpose of the inlet sanitary tee is two fold: to direct flow from the house sewer downward into the tank to create a longer detention time for the sewage to allow settling of solids, and to keep the floating scum layer from plugging the inlet pipe.

What is the difference between a sanitary tee and a vent tee?

A sanitary tee is a plumbing fixture that allows liquids to drain while also allowing the plumbing system to vent. The fitting resembles a normal tee fitting; the sanitary tee, however, when viewed from the side will have a definite downward sweep to the center inlet. 6

How much does it cost to replace a baffle in a septic tank?

Repairing a baffle costs $300 to $900 on average. You may pay more if it’s tough to access. The baffle helps to prevent buildup in the incoming or outgoing pipes of the tank.

How can we reduce sanitary tee?

Slip the new sanitary tee in place, glue it to the drain going down. The 1 1/2″ piece sticking out of the top should just about touch the 1 1/2″ piece coming down from upstairs. Pull the tape and slide the Fernco down over the stub of 1 1/2″ pip out the top of the sanitary tee.

Can you use a sanitary tee for venting?

Use a sanitary tee to connect a horizontal trap arm to a vertical drain and vent. If the diameter of the vent pipe is smaller than the drain pipe, glue a reducing fitting onto the upper barrel.

How do you install a sanitary tee on a septic tank?

The center of the plastic tee is inserted into the septic tank inlet opening just inside the tank, and the tee is installed vertically as you can see in our sketch above. If the center of your plastic tee is female rather than male, the larger hub may not fit into the septic tank inlet or outlet opening.

What is a sanitary outlet?

Plumbing outlet, sanitary means a plumbing outlet from a building or structure which carries the wastewater from sanitary facilities and plumbing fixtures, and which is not primarily designed to carry stormwater or unpolluted water.

Do all septic tanks have baffles?

Every septic tank contains two baffles, one at the inlet and one at the outlet.

Can I use sanitary tee horizontal?

Sanitary tees may only be used on drainage piping when transitioning from horizontal (1/4” per foot) to vertical. All others must sweep in direction of flow with proper drainage fittings.

Can you use a sanitary tee for a cleanout?

A sanitary tee should be installed for the drain pipe connection. You will also need to install a vent to protect the sink’s trap. Re: tee into cleanout? The IPC/IRC will allow this as long as the clean out remains a clean out.

What is a sanitary Cross?

saznitary cross. A type of pipe cross used as a fitting for a soil pipe; designed with a slight curve in each of the 90° transitions so as to channel flow from branch lines toward the direction of the main flow.

How often does a 1000 gallon septic tank need to be pumped?

For example, a 1,000 gallon septic tank, which is used by two people, should be pumped every 5.9 years. If there are eight people using a 1,000-gallon septic tank, it should be pumped every year.

What is the average life of a septic system?

Age of the System It’s pretty common for a septic system to last 40 years or longer, which means if you buy a new home, you might never need to replace it. However, you might have an older home whose septic system has been in place for nearly half a century.

How do you know if your leach field is failing?

The following are a few common signs of leach field failure: Grass over leach field is greener than the rest of the yard. The surrounding area is wet, mushy, or even has standing water. Sewage odors around drains, tank, or leach field.

The Role of the Sanitary Tee

What is a Sanitary Tee, and how does it work? All septic tanks are constructed with an aperture that allows waste to flow out of the tank and into the septic drainfield below. The outflow is the name given to this aperture. There should be properly running septic drain pipes and a clean filter inside of the tank.” data-medium-file=” data-large-file=” data-small-file=” src=” h=173″ alt=”sanitary tee and effluent filter in septic tank” src=” h=173″ alt=”sanitary tee and effluent filter in septic tank” a width of 232 pixels and a height of 173 pixels srcset=” h=173 232w, h=346 464w, h=112 150w, h=224 300w” h=173 232w, h=346 464w, h=112 150w, h=224 300w sizes=”(max-width: 232px) 100vw, 232px”> sizes=”(max-width: 232px) 100vw, 232px”> Clean effluent filter and a sanitary tee on the output side of the septic tank are recommended.

It is anticipated that a PVC “T”-shaped fitting, known as the Sanitary Tee, will be installed at the outlet.

When measured vertically, the top of the vertical section must extend beyond the level of the scum layer (where grease collects), and the bottom of the vertical section must be measured vertically below the level of the scum layer.

The Sanitary Tee Has a Special Function: “A septic tank with a sanitary tee and effluent filter on the outlet side of the septic tank.” data-image-caption=”” data-medium-file=” data-large-file=” src=” h=228″ alt=”Sanitary tee |

If the sludge layer at the bottom of the tank and/or the scum layer at the top of the tank become too near to the exit of the outlet tee, the tank will overflow and fail.
This could result in septic drainfield failure.

A solids collection device is installed within the outlet tee of newer systems, which is meant to collect solids that would otherwise be released from the tank through the outlet tee.
Prevent sewage backups by following these steps: Because the septic tank is placed below the soil surface, it is easy to overlook the need for annual maintenance.
If you take action now, not only will you avoid major damage to your septic drainfield, you may also avoid damage to the interior of your home, which may result in thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars in repair costs.

When you purchase a paid pumping service from Lentz Septic Tank Service, you will receive a Free Evaluation of your Sanitary Tee and Effluent Filter.

Professional Septic Tank Pumping

The presence of odors surrounding the drainfield might be caused by a loss of septic sanitary capacity in the septic tank. Of course, such scents might also be indicative of a malfunctioning drainfield, necessitating a more thorough investigation. Checking for the presence and condition of the septic tank outlet tee should be done at the septic tank and should be a quick and simple procedure. While it is important to repair an outlet tee if one has been lost, you should also consider that the drainfield’s future life will be significantly diminished.

For the reason that septic tank tees are both a probable source of and a diagnostic assistance in the event that your septic system emits foul scents or aromas.
The first is to direct the flow from the house sewer downward into the tank in order to create more detention time for the sewage, which will allow solids to settle out, and the second is to prevent the floating scum layer from blocking the inlet pipe.

The tees we use now improve on the first purpose by incorporating effluent filters, which prevent big floating particles or debris from going downstream via the tee.
So, what exactly is a tee?
Clay, concrete, and PVC pipe are all acceptable materials for making them.

It can also assist in preventing sediments from backing up toward the house if you should encounter a septic system backup at your home or business.
When we open a septic tank, we frequently find that one or both of the tees are missing or damaged.
When we notice that a tee is missing, we glance at the bottom of the tank as it is being pumped to see if the tee has fallen off somewhere along the way.

If you have a septic tank that is pumped on a regular basis, the pumping specialist should be inspecting the baffles. Sanitary tees can be replaced and installed by Lentz Wastewater.

Filter

If your septic system becomes clogged and you find yourself having to clean the filter on a regular basis, you might be tempted to simply remove the filter altogether. Hold on to it. Solids, wastewater, and scum are separated into three levels in septic tanks, which allows them to function properly. Solids sink to the bottom of the container, where microbes breakdown them. The scum, which is made up of trash that is lighter than water, rises to the surface. In the drainage field, the middle layer of effluent leaves the tank and goes through an underground network of perforated pipes to the drainage field.

Keep the outlet effluent filter in place since it is required by your state’s health law.
Waste particles may flow through the filter and block the drainfield if it were not installed.

Your filter, on the other hand, should not require cleaning every six months.
A good chance is high that you’re flushing filter-clogging things down the toilet, such as grease, fat, or food scraps.
A garbage disposal will not be able to break down food particles sufficiently to allow them to flow through the septic tank filtration system.

Plastic items, disposable diapers, paper towels, nonbiodegradable goods, and tobacco products will clog the system if they are flushed through it.

Need Help on Plumbing a Sanitary Tee into a Septic Tank

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON PUMPING SEPTIC TANKS Once a year, check both compartments for solids accumulation and pump them out before enough solids collect in the first compartment to cause spillage into the second compartment. Typically, tanks are less than sixteen inches in diameter – check with the manufacturer of your tank. To examine the level of solids at the bottom of your septic tank, wrap a piece of white towel around the end of a long pole and poke it into it. If your septic tank is healthy and correctly proportioned, it may never need to be pumped.

As a result of the accumulation of particles, grease, and sediments in the leach field percolation region, the ‘biomat’ ultimately fails and needs to be replaced.

If you reside in a very cold environment, you should never have your tank pumped in the fall or winter; you should only have it pumped in the spring.
After having your septic tank pumped, make sure to promptly refill it with water.
This is especially true when the soil is damp and when tanks are not adequately bedded with a sufficient amount of gravel before being filled (selective, draining backfill).

An empty concrete and fiberglass tank may fracture and leak if subjected to significant pressure, and it will ultimately need to be removed and replaced.
Larger particles are prevented from exiting the tank and jeopardizing the leach field by plugging soil pores and causing failure.

Sieve filters are used to prevent this from happening (bio-mat). Septic filters are a low-cost form of insurance that may be readily installed in the second compartment of your septic tank.

How Your Septic System Works

Underground wastewater treatment facilities, known as septic systems, are often employed in rural regions where there are no centralized sewage lines. They clean wastewater from residential plumbing, such as that produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry, by combining natural processes with well-established technology. A conventional septic system is comprised of two components: a septic tank and a drainfield, often known as a soil absorption field. It is the septic tank’s job to decompose organic matter and to remove floatable stuff (such as oils and grease) and solids from wastewater.

Alternate treatment systems rely on pumps or gravity to assist septic tank effluent in trickling through a variety of media such as sand, organic matter (e.g., peat and sawdust), constructed wetlands, or other media to remove or neutralize pollutants such as pathogens that cause disease, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other contaminants.

Specifically, this is how a typical conventional septic system works:

All of the water that leaves your home drains down a single main drainage pipe and into a septic tank. An underground, water-tight container, often composed of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene, serves as a septic system’s holding tank. Its function is to retain wastewater for a long enough period of time to allow particles to sink to the bottom and form sludge, while oil and grease float to the surface and produce scum. Sludge and scum are prevented from exiting the tank and moving into the drainfield region by compartments and a T-shaped outlet. After that, the liquid wastewater (effluent) exits the tank and flows into the drainfield. The drainfield is a shallow, covered hole dug in unsaturated soil that serves as a drainage system. Porous surfaces are used to release pretreated wastewater because they allow the wastewater to pass through the soil and into the groundwater. In the process of percolating through the soil, wastewater is accepted, treated, and dispersed by the soil, finally discharging into groundwater. Finally, if the drainfield becomes overburdened with too much liquid, it can flood, causing sewage to flow to the ground surface or resulting in toilet backups and sink backups. Finally, wastewater percolates into the soil, where it is naturally removed of harmful coliform bacteria, viruses, and nutrients. Coliform bacteria are a kind of bacteria that may be found in the intestines of humans and other warm-blooded animals, with humans being the most common host. As a result of human fecal contamination, it is a sign of this.

The Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority has built an animated, interactive model of how a residential septic system works, which you can view here.

Do you have a septic system?

It’s possible that you’re already aware that you have a septic system. If you are not sure, here are some tell-tale symptoms that you most likely are:

You make use of well water. In your home, the water pipe that brings water into the house does not have a meter. In the case of a water bill or a property tax bill, you will see “$0.00 Sewer Amount Charged.” It is possible that your neighbors have a septic system

How to find your septic system

You can locate your septic system once you have confirmed that you have one by following these steps:

Taking a look at the “as constructed” drawing of your house
Making a visual inspection of your yard for lids and manhole covers

Getting in touch with a septic system service provider for assistance in locating it

Failure symptoms: Mind the signs!

A bad odor is not necessarily the first indicator of a septic system that is failing to work properly. Any of the following signs should prompt you to seek expert assistance:

Water backing up into the drains of homes and businesses

It is especially noticeable in dry weather that the drainfield grass is bright green and spongy. The presence of standing water or muddy soil near your septic system or in your basement
A strong stench emanating from the area surrounding the septic tank and drainfield

How Does a Septic Tank Work?

Mr. Fix-It-Up-For-The-Family You may save a lot of money if you understand how a sewage treatment system works—and what can go wrong—so that you can handle your own septic system maintenance.

How does a septic tank work?

Pumping the tank on a regular basis eliminates sludge and scum, which helps to keep a septic system in good working order. It is possible for a well-designed and well built septic system to last for decades, or it might collapse in a matter of years. It is entirely up to you as long as you can answer the question of how do septic tanks function. Healthy septic systems are very inexpensive to maintain, but digging up and replacing a septic system that has completely collapsed may easily cost tens of thousands in labor and material costs.

It’s critical to understand how a septic tank works in order to maintain one.

Let’s take a look below ground and observe what happens in a properly operating septic system, shall we? After that, I’ll explain why things go wrong and offer you some tips on how to keep your system in peak operating condition.

Understand that a septic system is a cafeteria for bacteria

Bacteria are responsible for the proper operation of a septic system. They decompose garbage, resulting in water that is clean enough to safely trickle down into the earth’s surface. The entire system is set up to keep bacteria healthy and busy at all times. Some of them reside in the tank, but the majority of them are found in the drain field. 1. The septic tank is the final destination for all waste. 2. The majority of the tank is filled with watery waste, referred to as “effluent.” Anaerobic bacteria begin to break down the organic matter in the effluent as soon as it enters the system.

A layer of sludge settles to the bottom of the container.
4.
Scum is mostly constituted of fats, greases, and oils, among other substances.

Grease and oils float to the surface of the water.
(5) A filter stops the majority of particles from reaching the exit pipe.
The effluent is discharged into the drain field.

Effluent is allowed to leak into the surrounding gravel because of holes in the drain septic field pipe.
The garbage is completely decomposed by aerobic bacteria found in gravel and dirt.
Potable water seeps into the groundwater and aquifer system from the surface.

Septic Tank Clean Out: Don’t abuse the system

Septic systems that have been correctly planned and constructed require just occasional ‘pumping’ to remove the sludge and scum that has built up inside the tank. However, if you don’t understand how a septic tank works, you may unintentionally hurt or even destroy the system.

Drains are used to dispose of waste that decomposes slowly (or not at all). Cigarette butts, diapers, and coffee grounds are all known to cause issues. Garbage disposers, if utilized excessively, can introduce an excessive amount of solid waste into the system. Lint from synthetic fibers is emitted from washing machine lint traps. This substance is not degraded by bacteria in the tank and drain septic field. Bacteria are killed by chemicals found in the home, such as disinfecting cleansers and antibacterial soaps. The majority of systems are capable of withstanding limited usage of these goods, but the less you use them, the better. When a large amount of wastewater is produced in a short period of time, the tank is flushed away too quickly. When there is too much sludge, bacteria’s capacity to break down waste is reduced. Sludge can also overflow into the drain field if there is too much of it. Sludge or scum obstructs the flow of water via a pipe. It is possible for tree and shrub roots to obstruct and cause harm to a drain field. Compacted soil and gravel prevent wastewater from seeping into the ground and deprive germs of oxygen. Most of the time, this is caused by vehicles driving or parking on the drain field.

Get your tank pumped…

Your tank must be emptied on a regular basis by a professional. Pumping eliminates the accumulation of sludge and scum that has accumulated in the tank, which has caused the bacterial action to be slowed. If you have a large tank, it may be necessary to pump it once a year; but, depending on the size of your tank and the quantity of waste you send through the system, you may go two or three years between pumpings. Inquire with your inspector about an approximate guideline for how frequently your tank should be pumped.

…but don’t hire a pumper until you need it

Inspections and pumping should be performed on a regular basis. However, if you’re not afraid of getting your hands dirty, you may verify the sludge level yourself with a gadget known as The Sludge Judge. It ranges in price from $100 to $125 and is commonly accessible on the internet. Once you’ve verified that your tank is one-third full with sludge, you should contact a professional to come out and pump it out completely.

Install an effluent filter in your septic system

Garbage from your home accumulates into three distinct strata.

The septic filter is responsible for preventing blockage of the drain field pipes.

Septic tank filter close-up

The septic tank filter is responsible for capturing suspended particles that may otherwise block the drain field pipes. Obtain an effluent filter for your tank from your contractor and place it on the outflow pipe of your tank. (It will most likely cost between $50 and $100, plus labor.) This device, which helps to prevent sediments from entering the drain field, will need to be cleaned out on a regular basis by a contractor to maintain its effectiveness.

Solution for a clogged septic system

If your septic system becomes clogged and you find yourself having to clean the filter on a regular basis, you might be tempted to simply remove the filter altogether. Hold on to it. Solids, wastewater, and scum are separated into three levels in septic tanks, which allows them to function properly (see illustration above). Solids sink to the bottom of the container, where microbes breakdown them. The scum, which is made up of trash that is lighter than water, rises to the surface. In the drainage field, the middle layer of effluent leaves the tank and goes through an underground network of perforated pipes to the drainage field.

Keep the effluent filter in place since it is required by your state’s health law.

Waste particles might flow through the filter and clog the perforated pipes if the filter is not used.
Your filter, on the other hand, should not require cleaning every six months.
A good chance is high that you’re flushing filter-clogging things down the toilet, such as grease, fat, or food scraps.

A garbage disposal will not be able to break down food particles sufficiently to allow them to flow through the septic tank filtration system.
Plastic items, disposable diapers, paper towels, nonbiodegradable goods, and tobacco products will clog the system if they are flushed through it.
More information on removing lint from your laundry may be found here.

Get an inspection

Following a comprehensive first check performed by an expert, regular inspections will cost less than $100 each inspection for the next year. Your professional will be able to inform you how often you should get your system inspected as well as how a septic tank functions. As straightforward as a septic system appears, determining its overall condition necessitates the services of a professional. There are a plethora of contractors who would gladly pump the sludge out of your tank, but many, in my experience, are unable to explain how a septic system works or how it should be maintained.

A certification scheme for septic contractors has been established in certain states; check with your state’s Secretary of State’s office to see whether yours is one of them.

Also, a qualified inspector will be able to tell you whether or not your tank is large enough to accommodate your household’s needs, as well as the maximum amount of water that can be passed through it in a single day.

You may be able to boost the performance of your system by using a product such as RID-X to introduce bacteria into the system. As you learn more about how a septic tank works, your professional should be able to tell you whether or not your system will benefit from this treatment.

Alternatives to a new drain field

If an examination or a sewage backup indicate that your drain field is in need of replacement, the only option is to replace it completely. As a result, it’s important to talk with a contractor about other possibilities before proceeding with the project.

Pipes should be cleaned. A rotating pressure washer, used by a contractor, may be used to clean out the drain septic field pipes. The cost of “jetting” the pipes is generally around $200. Chemicals should be used to clean the system. A commercial solution (not a home-made one) that enhances the quantity of oxygen in the drain field should be discussed with your contractor before installing your new system. Septic-Scrub is a product that I suggest. A normal treatment will cost between $500 and $1,000. Make the soil more pliable. The practice of “terra-lifting,” which involves pumping high-pressure air into several spots surrounding the drain field, is authorized in some regions. Some contractors use it to shatter compacted dirt around the pipes. Depending on the circumstances, this might cost less than $1,000 or as much as $4,000 or more.

Protect your drain septic field from lint

When this device is in place, it inhibits lint from entering the system, especially synthetic fibers that bacteria are unable to digest. One of these filters, which I’ve designed and termed theSeptic Protector, was invented by me. An additional filter is included in the price of around $150 plus delivery. Learn more about how to filter out laundry lint in this article.

Don’t overload the septic system

Reduce the amount of water you use. The volume of water that flows into your tank, particularly over a short period of time, can be reduced to avoid untreated waste from being flushed into your drain field. Replace outdated toilets with low-flow ones, install low-flow showerheads, and, perhaps most importantly, wash laundry throughout the week rather than just on Saturday mornings to save water.

Meet the Expert

Septic systems, according to Jim vonMeier, are the solution to America’s water deficit because they supply cleaned water to depleted aquifers, according to vonMeier. He travels the country lobbying for septic systems, giving lectures, and giving testimony. For septic system inquiries, as well as information on the operation of the septic tank, contact him by email.

What Is A Septic Tank & How Does It Work?

Many individuals are unfamiliar with the notion of septic tanks. A septic tank is an essential part of any household that is not connected to the mains sewage system. If you have always lived in a house that has been connected to the mains sewage system, it is likely that you have never heard of a septic tank, let alone know what it is.In this blog, we will explain what a septic tank is and how they work.

What Is A Septic Tank?

Essentially, a septic tank is an underwater sedimentation tank that is used to cleanse waste water through the processes of biological breakdown and drainage. A septic tank is a wastewater treatment system that uses natural processes and time-tested technology to treat wastewater from residential plumbing, such as that produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry. The design of a septic tank system is pretty straightforward. It is a waterproof container (usually rectangular or spherical) that is buried underground and made of fiber glass, plastic, or concrete.

septic tank systems are classified as “simple on-site sewage facilities” (OSSFs) since they only provide rudimentary sewage treatment.
Excreta and wastewater are collected in a large underground tank, and they are mostly utilized in rural regions to keep the environment clean.
It is common for them to be comprised of two chambers or compartments, as well as a tank that collects wastewater via an entrance pipe.

This will be maintained and managed by a local water business.
There are, however, certain additional measures that must be observed.
Homeowners who have a septic tank have an additional responsibility to ensure that their tank does not have an adverse impact on the surrounding environment.

In some cases, if a drain field becomes overwhelmed with too much liquid, it might flood, which can result in sewage flowing to the ground surface or creating backups in toilets and sinks.

How Does A Septic Tank Work?

It is the job of a septic tank to break down organic waste and separate it from floatable substances (such as oils and fats) and solids in wastewater. Two pipelines will be installed to connect a septic tank (for inlet and outlet). Septic tanks are equipped with intake pipes, which are used to convey water waste from homes and collect it in the tank. It is stored here for a sufficient amount of time to allow the solid and liquid waste to be separated from one another. The second pipe is the pipe that goes out.

This pipe transports pre-processed effluent from the septic tank and disperses it evenly over the land and watercourses of the area.
(as seen in the illustration above) The top layer is comprised of oils and grease, and it floats above the rest of the waste.

Wastewater and waste particles are found in the intermediate layer of the wastewater system.
Bacteria in the tank try their best to break down the solid waste, which then allows liquids to separate and drain away more readily from the tank.
This is one of the reasons why a septic tank is considered to be a rudimentary type of sewage disposal.

The Step-by-step Process of How a Septic Tank Works

Water from your kitchen, bathroom, and other areas drains into a single main drainage pipe that leads to your septic tank. The septic tank, which is located underground, begins the process of storing waste water. It must maintain this condition for an extended period of time so that particles settle to the bottom and oil and grease float to the top. Following the completion of this operation, the liquid wastewater (effluent) will be allowed to escape the tank and enter the drainfield. This effluent is dumped into the environment through pipelines onto porous materials. The soil is able to filter wastewater through the use of these. In the process of percolating through the soil, wastewater is accepted, treated, and dispersed by the soil
The wastewater eventually discharges into groundwater. Last but not least, the wastewater percolates into the soil, where it is naturally removed from the environment by coliform bacteria, viruses and nutrients.

Christian Heritage

Christian joined the company at the end of its first year of operation and has since become involved in all aspects of the operation.

3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SEPTIC TANK BAFFLES

By Admin on November 12, 2020 Your efforts to live as environmentally conscious as possible, as a responsible homeowner, are likely already underway, with practices such as recycling, composting, and purchasing energy-efficient equipment among your list of accomplishments. As a septic tank owner, you want to be sure that anything you put into your tank and septic field is causing the least amount of ground contamination as is reasonably practicable. Fortunately, there are a number of modest improvements you can do immediately to make your septic system even more ecologically friendly than it already is.

Have your septic tank inspected and pumped on a regular basis.
A bigger septic tank with only a couple of people living in your house, for example, will not require pumping as frequently as a smaller septic tank or as a septic tank that must manage the waste products of multiple family members will require.

When in doubt about how often to pump your septic tank, consult with a professional for advice.
In addition to locating and repairing any damage, a professional can ensure that the septic field is in good working order and that your septic tank is functional, large enough to handle your family’s waste, and not causing any unwanted pollution in nearby ground water.
Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet or down the toilet.

Items that are not biodegradable are unable to properly decompose in the septic tank and might cause the system to get clogged.
In addition to causing issues in your house, septic system backups can damage ground water in the area surrounding your septic field.

Towels made of paper Products for feminine hygiene Grease or fats are used in cooking.

grinds from a cup of coffee Even if you have a trash disposal, the food scraps that you flush down the drain and bring into your septic system may cause unanticipated harm to your plumbing system.

Food scraps can enhance the amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater, which can disturb the natural bacterial balance of the septic tank, among other things.

Water conservation should be practiced.

Exceedingly large amounts of water use will interfere with the normal flow of wastewater from your home into your septic tank.

Limiting the amount of time you spend in the shower and turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, as well as purchasing a smaller dishwasher and washing machine that use less water, are all simple strategies to reduce water use in your home.

The following are some basic steps you can take to make your septic system more ecologically friendly: save water, maintain your septic system and tank, and recycle wastewater. To get answers to any of your septic tank-related issues, get in touch with the experts at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC.

How Does My Septic System Work?

With septic systems, we can enjoy the comfort of indoor plumbing without having to worry about how to dispose of our household waste in an efficient and safe manner. But do you truly understand how your septic system works? Read on to find out. Learn more about the components of your septic system and how they work below. Understanding how your septic system works is essential for ensuring that it is properly utilized and maintained.

Common Parts of a Septic System

A septic system is not necessary a complicated system, and each of its components works together to ensure that the waste generated by your family is properly kept and disposed of as soon as possible.

Septic Tank

Located beneath the earth on your property, a septic tank is a huge rectangular or cylindrical container composed of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene that collects and treats waste. They are used for homes that do not have access to a sewer system, which is most frequent in rural regions.

Drainfield

Septic tank sewage is channeled into your yard by a network of pipework known as the drainfield. Wastewater is normally held in the septic tank for two days before being discharged to the drainfield in the yard. This section of your septic system consists of lengthy lengths of pipe, referred to as “drainpipes,” that are punctured with small holes to allow for the release of waste. In the event that sediments accumulate in drainfields and are not adequately pushed away, the drainfield may get clogged.

If you find any of the following, your drainfield may be clogged:

The presence of greener grass over the drainfield

Unusual scents in your yard
And plumbing backups a squishy or muddy surface

If your drainfield becomes clogged, your complete septic system will be unable to work correctly. It is preferable to hire skilled underground service specialists to take care of the problem.

Pump Tanks

Even though pump tanks are not a required component of your septic system, they are highly recommended in order to ensure the correct functioning and maintenance of the system.Pump tanks have the following components:

Pumping of effluents It catches sediments before they leave the tank, preventing them from being discharged into the drainfield, which helps to keep the drainfield from being clogged. Control floats in mid-air. It is connected to a control panel and sends signals to tell the panel when to turn the pump on and off. A high-water alarm has been activated. When the pump fails to function properly, this feature is activated to signal an excessive volume of waste in the septic tank. In most cases, it is found under the kitchen sink or in the garage.

The best course of action for homeowners who have a high-water alarm activated is to conserve water and have a professional septic system specialist assess the water levels.

Distribution Box

The distribution box, which is positioned between the septic tank and the drainfield, is meant to transport wastewater evenly across the drainfield lines, which are connected to the septic tank.

Leach Drain Field

Often referred to as the septic field, the leach field is a component of your septic system that accepts wastewater from the septic tank. It refers to the network of drainpipes, stones, and a layer of unsaturated soil that make up the drainage system. It moves trash into the soil, where it is eventually re-circulated back into the groundwater supply.

How a Septic System Works

All of these components work together to securely remove wastewater from your house and disperse it into the surrounding environment.

Specifically, it accomplishes this by relying on naturally occurring bacteria to break down the materials that are dumped into the septic tank. All of the things that you flush down the toilet or rinse down the drain fall into one of three categories:

Sludge is a term that refers to heavy things (such as solid food waste, excrement, and toilet paper) that collect at the bottom of a tank and accumulate there. Natural bacteria break down the particles in the tank over time, allowing them to be drained out of the tank as scum. These are lighter items (soaps, oils, and grease) that float to the surface of the septic tank
Liquid (Effluent) wastewater
And solid (Sludge) wastewater. Water that remains in the tank is pumped to the drainfield, which is located in the centre of the tank.

In the end, everything that goes into your septic tank will decompose and produce effluent wastewater, which will then be discharged into your drainfield. This wastewater has been processed (thanks to the bacteria) and is released down the drain pipes before being filtered by the soil. The wastewater is subsequently absorbed, treated, and dispersed by the soil until it finally seeps into the groundwater table. As a natural filter, the soil eliminates dangerous germs and viruses while also absorbing nutrients.

Septic System Issues

As previously stated, septic systems are susceptible to high water levels as well as clogged drainfields and leach fields. There are, however, several other septic-related considerations to bear in mind:

Clogs. The system between your house and the tank might get clogged for a variety of reasons, including clogs in the drainage pipes themselves. During this time, you’ll observe sluggish drainage and sewage backups in your home. The roots of a tree. Tree roots will naturally grow in the direction of water and moisture, and they will tend to wrap around or bore through any obstructions that stand in their way. There may be harm to your septic system if there are trees growing on or around it

This includes damage to the tank and pipes. Detergents are products that remove dirt and grime. Certain detergent solutions that contain high amounts of phosphate can foster the growth of algae in your tank, which can subsequently cause the perforations in the drain pipes to get clogged with algae.

In order to avoid problems with your septic system, it is important to be aware of the substances and products that you are releasing into your home’s plumbing system at all times. It is preferable to use phosphate-free detergents and cleaning products that are specifically intended for septic systems. These products degrade more quickly and will help to keep your system from being blocked in the future. Also, be mindful of what you are flushing down the toilet. Everything plastic and non-biodegradable, such as paper towels and sanitary tampons, is not intended to break down in a septic tank and should be avoided.

A regular pumping and maintenance schedule is a certain method to keep your septic system operating at full efficiency.

We are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer your inquiries and handle your issues!

Everything You Need to Know About Your Septic Tank

What is a septic tank, and how does it work? A septic tank is a water-tight container that is often constructed of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene to prevent flooding (plastic). In fact, it is only one component of the entire septic system, which includes several other components such as a distribution box, pumps, float switches, aerators, filters, and other accessories. Septic systems are used to treat wastewater on-site in many rural and suburban areas that do not have access to centralized sewage systems.

The components of a conventional septic tank are depicted in the diagram below.

These are:

The Tank: This is the water-tight tank into which wastewater from your house is sent once it has been collected. A hole, fracture, or any other structural damage should not be present. Access Ports: When a trained pumper comes to clean up your tank, they will utilize an access port. When it comes to tank cleaning, it is critical that the access port be large enough to allow the pumper to move the hose about within the tank properly. A common application for risers is to elevate septic tank access above ground level, eliminating the need to dig up your septic tank every time it has to be pumped. Last but not least, the access port should be securely secured with a child-resistant lid. It is vital for the protection of your family that septic tank lids are securely fastened with screws and that they are not cracked or damaged. Pipes for entering and exiting the septic tank: Wastewater from your house enters the septic tank through the intake pipe. After the particles have settled out, the effluent is discharged from the septic tank through the exit pipe and into the drainage field. There should be roughly 3 inches between the output pipe and the intake pipe. A baffle is fitted on the intake pipe within the tank, and it serves to keep the water out. It provides a variety of functions. Additionally, it helps to avoid the build-up of scum and its backup into the intake pipe It is also important for solids to settle in the tank that the input baffle be properly installed. When wastewater enters the septic tank, it should hit the entrance baffle, which will reduce the flow and prevent the tank from becoming agitated. This permits the contents of the septic tank to remain at rest, allowing the solids to sink to the bottom of the tank. The intake baffle can also prevent odorous odors from entering the sewage line and spreading throughout the home or business
And It is even more crucial than the inlet baffle to have an exit baffle in place because it helps to prevent scum and other particles from flowing directly into the outflow pipe and eventually into the drain field. Gas Deflector/Effluent Filter: As gas bubbles climb to the top of a septic tank, they may bring sediments with them. This is why an effluent filter is used. A gas deflector prevents these solid-carrying gases from entering the output line by preventing them from entering. However, while not every septic tank is equipped with an effluent filter, it is strongly suggested as an additional safety to prevent particulates from entering your drain field.

Any of the above-mentioned components in your septic tank should be checked for damage or missing parts as soon as possible, and the problem should be resolved by a septic system specialist. What is the operation of a septic tank? Each and every drop of wastewater from your home is channeled via a main drainage pipe and into your septic tank. Solids are prevented from entering your drain field by using the septic tank, which is just a settling tank that serves as a filter. Ideally, the water should be kept in the tank for at least one day in order to enable time for the solids to settle.

Heavy materials, such as dirt and digested waste, will sink to the bottom of the tank and form a sludge layer at the bottom of the tank.
Effluent is the term used to describe the liquid that exists between the sludge and scum layers.
It is critical that solids are given adequate time and space to settle before being used.
In fact, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection mandates a minimum capacity of 900 gallons for any new septic tank installations in the state (the table below shows recommended septic tank capacities for different sized homes).
Ideally, you should have your septic tank emptied every two to three years, according to the Pennsylvania Septage Management Association (PSMA).
If a drain field has been ruined by a buildup of sediments, it might cost tens of thousands of dollars to rebuild it.
It is crucial to understand that your septic tank must be completely filled with liquid in order to function effectively.
The septic tank diagram shown above depicts the correct operating level of a septic tank in a residential setting.
The result is that whenever more wastewater is added to the tank, an equal volume of effluent will be discharged from the tank and drain into the drain field.
The opposite is true if the liquid level is higher than the outflow line, which may signal a blockage in a line downstream from the septic tank or in the drain field.

If you’re wondering if your septic tank is full, a skilled pumper will consider it “full” once solids have filled one-third of the tank’s capacity. This is the time of year when your septic tank will need to be pumped.

Septic System Information and Care

When municipal sewer service is not available, a septic system that has been properly constructed and maintained is an excellent option for treating wastewater and protecting groundwater quality. A typical septic system is comprised of two key components: the septic tank and the drainfield (or leach field). Waste from toilets, sinks, washing machines, and showers is channeled into a septic tank, which is a holding tank that is typically constructed of pre-cast concrete or fiberglass and is proportioned according to the projected wastewater flow from a given-sized house or commercial establishment.

In the first stage of wastewater treatment, anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that can survive in an oxygen-free environment) break down solids into liquids and generate gas that is vented through the building’s plumbing vent stack.
The lack of oxygen inside the septic tank also has the added benefit of deactivating some of the disease bacteria that are prevalent in sewage.
Because it allows aerobic (oxygen-using) bacteria to continue deactivating the disease germs that remain in the wastewater, the drainfield serves as a secondary treatment facility for sewage.
Evaporation of water also occurs through the layer of soil that surrounds the drainfield.
That way, enough permeable or unsaturated soil is available to filter the wastewater before the remainder of it gets into the groundwater table and underlying aquifer.
In certain instances, modern wastewater treatment systems that “aerate,” or add oxygen to the wastewater, may be necessary to treat the effluent.

Septic System Care

Don’t flush cigarette butts, tampons, condoms, or any other indigestible things down the toilet or down the sink drain. Consequently, the exit filter or drainfield will become clogged. Never throw grease down the drain since grease cannot be digested by the septic system and will cause it to become clogged! rather than dumping it in the garbage, pour it into an empty container or bottle and throw it away. Make sure you don’t use excessive amounts of bleach or other cleaning agents in your septic tank since doing so will interfere with the bacterial operation inside the tank.

Instead of doing numerous loads of laundry back-to-back, stretch your wash loads out over the course of the week to reduce the amount of water that the septic system has to treat (a normal wash load consumes between 60 and 90 gallons each load!).
Roots from trees and plants will grow into the drainlines and cause them to get obstructed.
Driving over your drainfield can cause the pipes to become crushed or the dirt surrounding them to become compacted, and driving over your septic tank can cause the lid to fracture or even fall apart!
Consider the installation of water-saving showerheads, toilets, and other water-saving appliances in your home.
Septic tanks should be pumped out every four to five years, according to the Florida Department of Health, in order to prevent the buildup of sludge in the tank over time.
Stoppages and overcrowded drainfields are caused by leaking toilet flapper valves, which can allow hundreds of thousands of gallons of waste water to enter your septic system each day.
In addition to providing you with many useful suggestions and information, our Environmental Health Professionals can also assist you extend the life of your existing septic system.

If you would like more information on the operation of traditional or sophisticated wastewater treatment systems, or if you have any questions about maintaining your septic system, please call us at (386) 758-1058.

Septic Components – Septic Tank

The septic tank is a waterproof structure that serves as the primary gathering location for waste by-products from human waste disposal. In this tank, solid waste is separated from liquid waste, and biological digestion of the waste materials takes place. Solid waste is separated from liquid waste in this tank. A septic tank is used for anaerobic treatment, which means it is effective at settling out solids but less effective at removing nutrients and breaking down organic materials. It is necessary to size septic tanks in accordance with the amount of liquid waste that they must treat – this is determined based on the number of bedrooms.

Tank Components:

In order for waste to enter the tank, there must also be an outlet for waste to depart the tank in all septic tanks. The inlet is the name given to the entryway. An internal “T”-shaped fitting made of PVC will be installed within the tank. This fitting will be comprised of a small portion of horizontal piping feeding into a somewhat longer, vertical section of piping that will be open on both the top and bottom.

Outlet Sanitary “T”

= All septic tanks are equipped with an aperture that allows waste to escape the tank. The exit is referred to as the outlet. There will be a “T”-shaped fitting made of PVC within the tank, which will consist of a short portion of horizontal piping that will lead into a somewhat longer vertical section of piping that will be open on both the top and bottom. Top of the vertical section must reach beyond the level of the scum layer, and the bottom of the vertical section must extend below the level of the scum layer at the bottom of the section.

Effluent Filter

= Excessive particles discharge into the drain field might cause it to clog and lose effectiveness in the treatment and dispersion of the regular liquid flow, resulting in increased costs. If the problem continues, it is possible that the drain field may need to be replaced. The use of septic tank effluent filters to prevent solids discharge is a reasonably affordable method of doing so. When installing a new septic system, effluent filters are necessary at the septic tank’s outflow, at the sanitary “T” outlet, for the purpose of collecting particles that may be released from the tank during construction.

Scum Layer

= This is a buoyant waste consisting primarily of greases and soaps. In most cases, this is the first item that can be seen floating on the surface of a septic tank when it is opened.

If routine maintenance (i.e., pumping the tank) is not conducted, this waste might accumulate to the point that it rises past the top of the inlet and outflow tees, obstructing the inlet into the tank and perhaps clogging the soils in the absorption area as well.

Liquid Effluent Layer

= After the sludge and scum waste have separated, the liquid effluent is composed of the leftover liquids and semi-buoyant waste particles. A typically working septic tank maintains a steady effluent level at the height of the bottom of the outlet tee opening at the height of the bottom of the outlet tee opening. As a result, when additional waste is introduced into the tank, the liquid effluent level rises, and the effluent is driven out of the tank through the outlet into the distribution box and into the absorption area, where it is dispersed and treated further.

More bacterial action is required for therapy of this illness than can be achieved in the tank alone, as previously stated.

Sludge Layer

It is composed of the heavier waste materials that separate and settle to the bottom of the pond. = The sludge layer is where the breakdown process continues by means of bacteriological contact. These bacteria survive and thrive without the presence of air in what is called an anaerobic therapy. Although decomposition is a continuing process, the breakdown is not complete, which might eventually result in waste residue build-up if not pushed out on a regular basis. This residue can pile up to the bottom of the inlet or outlet tee and obstruct flow into and/or out of the tank.

Tank Maintenance

By collecting wastewater in the tank and allowing particles to settle and scum to rise to the surface, the septic tank eliminates solids from a home’s drainage system. In order to do this, wastewater must be allowed to sit in the tank for at least 24 hours. It is possible that up to 50% of the solids retained in the tank will degrade. The leftover solids build up in the tank over time. It is not necessary to use biological or chemical additions to enhance or speed the breakdown process. With continued usage of the septic system, sludge continues to collect at the bottom of the septic tank’s tank.

Whenever the amount of sludge rises over this threshold, sewage has less time to settle correctly before it is released from the tank.

If sludge collects for an excessive amount of time, there is no settling and the sewage flows directly into the soil absorption region.

“Septage” is the term used to describe the material that is pumped out of the tank.

The frequency of pumping depends on several factors:

Septic tank’s holding capacity
Flow of wastewater (which is proportional to the size of the home)
• the total amount of solids present in the wastewater (more solids if rubbish disposal is employed)

Septic tank’s carrying capacity; Flow of wastewater (which is proportional to the size of the home); and the total amount of particles present in wastewater (more solids present if rubbish disposal is employed);

Tank Size (Gallons)	Household Size (Number of People Living in Home)
	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10
1000	12.4	5.9	3.7	2.6	2.0	1.5	1.2	1.0	0.8	0.7
1250	15.6	7.5	4.8	3.4	2.6	2.0	1.7	1.4	1.2	1.0
1500	18.9	9.1	5.9	4.2	3.3	2.6	2.1	1.8	1.5	1.3
1750	22.1	10.7	6.9	5.0	3.9	3.1	2.6	2.2	1.9	1.6
2000	25.4	12.4	8.0	5.9	4.5	3.7	3.1	2.6	2.2	2.0
2250	28.6	14.0	9.1	6.7	5.2	4.2	3.5	3.0	2.6	2.3

It should be noted that if a waste disposal is utilized, more frequent pumping will be required. It is vital to remember that if a full tank is not pumped, the soil absorption field will not collapse instantly. Rather, it will take time. The septic tank, on the other hand, is no longer safeguarding the soil absorption field from solids.

Continued neglect will end in failure, and it is possible that the soil absorption field may need to be removed and rebuilt. Because of site constraints, it may not be possible to replace the absorption area in some instances.