What Is Protective Fill Septic Tank? (Best solution)

  • A buried, watertight tank designated and constructed to receive and partially treat raw domestic sanitary wastewater. Heavy solids settle to the bottom of the tank while greases and lighter solids float to the top. The solids stay in the tank while the wastewater is discharged to the drainfield for further treatment and dispersal.

What are the 3 types of septic systems?

Types of Septic Systems

  • Septic Tank.
  • Conventional System.
  • Chamber System.
  • Drip Distribution System.
  • Aerobic Treatment Unit.
  • Mound Systems.
  • Recirculating Sand Filter System.
  • Evapotranspiration System.

What is septic fill?

Septic drain fields, also called leach fields or leach drains, are subsurface wastewater disposal facilities used to remove contaminants and impurities from the liquid that emerges after anaerobic digestion in a septic tank. A septic drain field, a septic tank, and associated piping compose a septic system.

Can I shower if my septic tank is full?

Only the water would get out into the leach field in a proper system unless you run too much water too fast. The thing to do is to run your shower water outside into it’s own drain area, but it may not be allowed where you are. Used to be called gray water system.

What are septic tanks filled with?

Every cesspool or septic tank which has been abandoned or has been discontinued otherwise from further use or to which no waste or soil pipe from a plumbing fixture is connected, shall have the sewage removed, a hole that punctures the bottom of the tank, and be completely filled with sand, gravel, concrete or other

How do you tell if your septic tank is full?

How to tell your septic tank is full and needs emptying

  1. Pooling water.
  2. Slow drains.
  3. Odours.
  4. An overly healthy lawn.
  5. Sewer backup.
  6. Gurgling Pipes.
  7. Trouble Flushing.

What is a Class 5 septic system?

Class 5. A sewage system using a holding tank for the retention of on-site sewage and must be emptied by a licensed sewage hauler. A permit is required to install this type of septic system.

Do all septic tanks have filters?

First, not all septic tanks have a filter, especially the older septic tanks. Now many government agencies require or recommend a filter when a septic tank is installed. Cleaning a septic tank filter is different than pumping out a septic tank and cleaning it.

How often should a septic tank be pumped?

Inspect and Pump Frequently The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years.

What to do after septic is pumped?

After you have had your septic tank pumped by a trusted septic company, there are some things you can and should do as the septic system owner.

  1. 1) Get on a Schedule.
  2. 2) Take Care of the System.
  3. 3) Know the Parts of Your System.
  4. 4) Check Other Possible Issues.

What are the do’s and don’ts of a septic tank?

DON’T flush material that will not easily decompose, such as hair, diapers, cigarette butts, matches, or feminine hygiene products. DO conserve water to avoid overloading the system. They kill the bacteria needed to decompose wastes in the septic tank and drain field. DO use substitutes for household hazardous waste.

Is Ridex good for septic?

How additives, like Rid-x, interfere with your septic system’s eco-system. According to the EPA and the Ohio Department of Health, not only are additives like Rid-X not recommended, but they actually have a detrimental and potentially hazardous effect on your septic system’s waste treatment process.

How long do septic tanks last?

A septic system’s lifespan should be anywhere from 15 to 40 years. How long the system lasts depends on a number of factors, including construction material, soil acidity, water table, maintenance practices, and several others.

Should old septic tanks be removed?

Septic tanks are decommissioned for safety reasons. If a tank is not going to be used any longer, the best decision is to render it inoperable. Tanks that were well constructed, as well as those that are surrounded by excellent soil for the drain field, can have a lifespan of 50 years.

How do I know if my septic tank is failing?

8 Signs of Septic System Failure

  1. Septic System Backup.
  2. Slow Drains.
  3. Gurgling Sounds.
  4. Pool of Water or Dampness Near Drainfield.
  5. Nasty Odors.
  6. Unusual, Bright Green Grass Above Drainfield.
  7. Blooms of Algae in Nearby Water.
  8. High Levels of Coliform in Water Well.

Do you need to pump both sides of a septic tank?

Septic tanks installed after the late 1980s have two compartments, and it is important to pump out both compartments each time. Most homeowners are unaware when their septic tank has two compartments; some companies use that to their advantage, charging to pump both sides of the tank but only actually pumping out one.

Types of Septic Systems

Septic system design and size can differ significantly from one neighborhood to the next, as well as throughout the country, due to a variety of variables. Household size, soil type, slope of the site, lot size, closeness to sensitive water bodies, weather conditions, and even municipal ordinances are all considerations to take into consideration. The following are 10 of the most often encountered septic system configurations. It should be noted that this is not an exhaustive list; there are several additional types of septic systems.

  • Septic Tank, Conventional System, Chamber System, Drip Distribution System, Aerobic Treatment Unit, Mound Systems, Recirculating Sand Filter System, Evapotranspiration System, Constructed Wetland System, Cluster / Community System, etc.

Septic Tank

This tank is underground and waterproof, and it was designed and built specifically for receiving and partially treating raw home sanitary wastewater. Generally speaking, heavy materials settle at or near the bottom of the tank, whereas greases and lighter solids float to the surface. The sediments are retained in the tank, while the wastewater is sent to the drainfield for further treatment and dispersion once it has been treated.

Conventional System

Septic tanks and trench or bed subsurface wastewater infiltration systems are two types of decentralized wastewater treatment systems (drainfield). When it comes to single-family homes and small businesses, a traditional septic system is the most common type of system. For decades, people have used a gravel/stone drainfield as a method of water drainage. The term is derived from the process of constructing the drainfield. A short underground trench made of stone or gravel collects wastewater from the septic tank in this configuration, which is commonly used.

Effluent filters through the stone and is further cleaned by microorganisms once it reaches the soil below the gravel/stone trench, which is located below the trench.

Chamber System

Septic tanks and subsurface wastewater infiltration systems are two types of decentralized wastewater treatment systems that can be used (drainfield). When it comes to single-family homes and small businesses, a traditional septic system is the most common. For decades, people have used a gravel/stone drainfield as a method of removing water. ‘Drainfield’ is an abbreviation for the drainfield that was built. A short underground trench made of stone or gravel collects wastewater from the septic tank in this configuration.

When wastewater passes through the stone, it is further cleaned by bacteria until it reaches the soil under the gravel/stone trench.

Drip Distribution System

Septic tanks and trench or bed subsurface wastewater infiltration systems are two types of decentralized wastewater treatment systems that can be used (drainfield). When it comes to single-family homes and small businesses, a traditional septic system is the most commonly used. For decades, people have used a gravel/stone drainfield as a method of removing excess water. The term is derived from the process of building the drainfield. The wastewater is routed from the septic tank to a shallow underground trench made of stone or gravel in this arrangement.

Effluent filters through the stone and is then further cleaned by bacteria once it reaches the soil below the gravel/stone trench. In terms of total footprint, gravel/stone systems are rather big, and therefore may not be ideal for all residential locations or situations.

Aerobic Treatment Unit

A decentralized wastewater treatment system that consists of a septic tank and a trench or bed subsurface wastewater infiltration system (drainfield). A standard septic system is often built in a single-family home or a small business. The gravel/stone drainfield is a design that has been in use for many years. The term alludes to the process of constructing the drainfield. The wastewater is routed from the septic tank to a shallow underground trench of stone or gravel in this configuration. A geofabric or similar material is then put on top of the trench to prevent sand, dirt, and other impurities from entering the clean stone.

Gravel/stone systems have a rather big total footprint and may not be suited for all home locations or situations.

Mound Systems

Using mound systems in regions with short soil depth, high groundwater levels, or shallow bedrock might be a good alternative. A drainfield trench has been dug through the sand mound that was erected. The effluent from the septic tank runs into a pump chamber, where it is pumped to the mound in the amounts recommended. During its release to the trench, the effluent filters through the sand and is dispersed into the native soil, where it continues to be treated. However, while mound systems can be an effective solution for some soil conditions, they demand a significant amount of land and require regular care.

Recirculating Sand Filter System

Sand filter systems can be built either above or below ground, depending on the use. The effluent is discharged from the septic tank into a pump compartment. Afterwards, it is pushed into the sand filter. The sand filter is often made of PVC or a concrete box that is filled with a sand-like substance. The effluent is pushed through the pipes at the top of the filter under low pressure to the drain. As the effluent exits the pipelines, it is treated as it passes through the sand filtering system.

However, sand filters are more costly than a standard septic system because they provide a higher level of nutrient treatment and are thus better suited for areas with high water tables or that are adjacent to bodies of water.

Evapotranspiration System

Evaporative cooling systems feature drainfields that are one-of-a-kind. It is necessary to line the drainfield at the base of the evapotranspiration system with a waterproof material. Following the entry of the effluent into the drainfield, it evaporates into the atmosphere. At the same time, the sewage never filters into the soil and never enters groundwater, unlike other septic system designs. It is only in particular climatic circumstances that evapotranspiration systems are effective.

The environment must be desert, with plenty of heat and sunshine, and no precipitation. These systems perform effectively in shallow soil; but, if it rains or snows excessively, they are at risk of failing completely.

Constructed Wetland System

Construction of a manufactured wetland is intended to simulate the treatment processes that occur in natural wetland areas. Wastewater goes from the septic tank and into the wetland cell, where it is treated. Afterwards, the wastewater goes into the media, where it is cleaned by microorganisms, plants, and other media that eliminate pathogens and nutrients. Typically, a wetland cell is constructed with an impermeable liner, gravel and sand fill, and the necessary wetland plants, all of which must be capable of withstanding the constant saturation of the surrounding environment.

As wastewater travels through the wetland, it may escape the wetland and flow onto a drainfield, where it will undergo more wastewater treatment before being absorbed into the soil by bacteria.

Cluster / Community System

In certain cases, a decentralized wastewater treatment system is owned by a group of people and is responsible for collecting wastewater from two or more residences or buildings and transporting it to a treatment and dispersal system placed on a suitable location near the dwellings or buildings. Cluster systems are widespread in settings like rural subdivisions, where they may be found in large numbers.

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:

  1. 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
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How to find your septic system

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

  • The following are some methods for determining whether or not your home has a septic system.

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

Septic Tank Pumping

Septic tanks are used in the vast majority of on-lot sewage systems nowadays. The subject of how frequently a septic tank should be pumped has been a source of contention for several decades. For example, there are some homeowners who say they have never drained their septic tank and that it “appears” to be in fine working condition. While trying to establish a standard pumping strategy, authorities have taken a more conservative approach and have declared that all septic tanks should be pump out every two to three years.

How a Septic Tank Works

Box 1.Can you tell me how much solid trash you generate? The average adult consumes around one quart of food every day. The body removes just a very little percentage of this meal and utilizes it to provide energy for the body’s functions. The remaining portion is discharged into the waste water system. This translates into around 90 gallons of solid waste being discharged into the septic tank per adult each year. Based on the assumption that the anaerobic bacteria in the septic tank reduce the waste volume by around 60%, this indicates that each adult contributes approximately 60 gallons of solids to their septic tank each year.

  • Consequently, it will take around 5 years for one adult to completely fill a 1,000-gallon septic tank with sludge and scum, which is approximately 300 gallons.
  • It is simple to infer that a septic tank should be pumped every two to three years after accounting for adults who work outside the home for a third of the time and children who attend school after making these modifications to the study.
  • Single chamber septic tanks were the most common type of septic tank until recently.
  • Septic tanks are designed to aid the removal of particles that are heavier than water by encouraging these heavy particles to settle to the tank bottom, resulting in the formation of the sludge layer.
  • It is also designed to keep particles that are lighter than water by encouraging these lighter particles to float to the surface and be maintained in the tank, resulting in a layer of scum on the surface of the tank.

In part, this is due to the fact that the temperature of the septic tank is equal to that of the soil surrounding it, and the anaerobic bacteria require higher temperatures in order to effectively decompose organic material in wastewater and thus reduce the biological oxygen demand (BOD) of the wastewater.

  1. Holding on to the heavy (settleable) and lighter (floatable) particles allows the septic tank to gently fill with solids from the bottom up as well as from the top down.
  2. Septic tanks with an exit filter will catch and decrease the flow of solids into the absorption area when the tank is properly designed and installed.
  3. As a result, it is critical that every septic tank be pumped on a regular basis to eliminate the organic particles that have been collected and partially digested.
  4. Small amounts of the particles kept in the tank degrade, but the vast majority of the solids stay and build up in the tank.
  5. Under no circumstances should you enter a septic tank.
  6. With continued usage of the on-lot wastewater disposal system, an accumulation of sludge and scum builds up in the septic tank.
  7. As the amount of sludge and scum in the tank fills up, wastewater is maintained in the tank for a shorter period of time, and the solids removal process becomes less efficient as a result.

It is necessary to pump the tank on a regular basis in order to avoid this. Asseptage is the term used to describe the substance injected. Cross-sectional view of a two-chamber septic tank (Figure 1).

Number of bedrooms in the home Estimated daily flow (gallons/day) Minimum septic tank size (gallons)
3 400 900
4 500 1,250
5 600 1,400
6 700 1,550

How Frequent should a Septic Tank be Pumped?

Pumping frequency is determined by a number of parameters, including:

  • The capacity of the septic tank
  • The amount of wastewater that is put to the septic tank each day (see Table 1)
  • The amount of solids in a wastewater stream is measured. In this regard, it should be noted that there are various different types of particles that are regularly dumped into a septic system. This group of solids includes (1) biodegradable “organic” solids such as feces (see Box 1), (2) slowly biodegradable “organic” solids such as toilet paper and cellulosic compounds, which take a long time to biodegrade in the septic tank, and (3) non-biodegradable solids such as kitty litter, plastics, and other non-biodegradable materials, which do not biodegrade and quickly fill the septic tank It is possible to significantly reduce the quantity of slowly biodegradable organics and non-biodegradable trash that is introduced to your septic tank by reducing the amount of organic waste that is added to the tank.

Volume of wastewater that is supplied to the septic tank on a daily basis (see Table 1); Capacity of septic tank In the wastewater stream, there are large amounts of particles (solids content). In this regard, it should be mentioned that there are various different types of particles that are regularly dumped into septic tanks. These include (1) biodegradable “organic” solids such as feces (see Box 1), (2) slowly biodegradable “organic” solids such as toilet paper and cellulosic compounds, which take a long time to biodegrade in the septic tank, and (3) non-biodegradable solids such as kitty litter, plastics, and other non-biodegradable materials, which do not biodegrade and quickly fill the septic tank (see Box 3 It is possible to significantly reduce the quantity of slowly biodegradable organics and non-biodegradable trash that is introduced into your septic tank by reducing the amount of organic waste that is added to the tank.

Homes with expanding families, having children ranging in age from tiny children to adolescents, often consume more water and deposit more sediments into the septic tank than other types of households.

Another key issue when determining how frequently a septic tank should be pumped is the time of the pumping.

This is especially true for tanks that do not have exit filters, which are common in older tanks.

By the time sewage has backed up into the home, the soil absorption area has become clogged with a nearly impermeable biomat and has become inundated with wastewater due to the soil’s inability to absorb the wastewater produced on a daily basis due to the soil’s inability to absorb the wastewater produced.

The biomat will not be removed from the septic tank by pumping it.

Then the pump-access hole to the absorption area should be left open for a few days to allow the absorption area to drain.

It is recommended that the septic tank be pumped in conjunction with the absorption area pumping, in order to promote the establishment of aerated conditions in the absorption area.

Is It Time To Pump Your Septic Tank?

So, how does one go about determining how frequently a septic tank needs be cleaned? We are aware that residences who dispose of huge volumes of non-biodegradable and slowly biodegradable organic waste into their septic tank require more frequent pumping. It is also known that prior to the time at which the collected solids have accumulated to the point that they are being taken with the tank effluent to the absorption region, the septic tank should be pump out. When it comes to determining when (and how frequently) to pump your septic tank, there are two generally safe ways to use.

The alternative method is to open the access port to the first chamber (as shown in Figure 1) once a year and insert a long pole to the bottom of the tank and then pull it out of the tank.

If the sludge has accumulated to more than one-third of the tank’s total depth, it is time to have it drained out completely. The majority of households will benefit from having their tanks drained every two or three years instead.

The Pumping Process

Contractors who specialize in septic tank pumping and hauling may pump your septic tank. It is a good idea to be present to check that everything is completed correctly. For the material to be extracted from the tank, it is necessary to break up the scum layer, and the sludge layer must be combined with the liquid section of the tank. In most cases, this is accomplished by alternately pumping liquid out of the tank and re-injecting it into the bottom of the tank. Not the little intake or outlet inspection openings situated above each baffle, but the two huge central access ports (manholes) are required for pumping the septic tank.

  1. It is not suggested to use additives in septic tanks to minimize the volume of sludge or as a substitute for pumping in order to achieve these goals.
  2. When you have your septic tank pumped, you should consider taking an additional step to ensure that your septic system continues to perform correctly for a long time.
  3. This inspector can tell you whether or not your septic tank needs to be repaired, as well as whether or not other components of your sewage system require upkeep.
  4. Mark the position of the tank as well, so that it may be found simply in the future for pumping.

Schedule Septic Tank Pumping

Homeowners should develop the practice of getting their septic tanks drained on a regular basis. As long as you are able and willing to schedule regular septic tank pumping (every two or three years, for example), it may be feasible to improve the overall performance of your complete on-lot wastewater disposal system. According to research conducted at Penn State, your soil absorption system will benefit from frequent resting periods (a period during which no wastewater is added to the absorption area).

In other words, the whole system, particularly the soil absorption region, will have the opportunity to dry up, and any organic waste (biomat) that may have formed in the soil absorption area will degrade swiftly in the absence of water.

Summary

A septic tank is simply one component of a complete on-site wastewater treatment system. Its purpose is to remove solids from the effluent prior to it reaching the soil absorption region, to allow for the digestion of a part of those solids, and to store the remainder of the solids in a holding tank. It is not necessary to use biological or chemical additions to enhance or speed the breakdown process.

Grinders contribute to the solids load on the system by reducing the size of garbage. Solids must be removed on a regular basis in order to prevent them from accessing the soil absorption zone. Every two to three years, you should have your septic tank drained and examined by a professional.

For additional assistance contact

Your local Sewage Enforcement Officer or Extension Educator can help you with these issues. A contact for the Pennsylvania Association of Sewage Enforcement Officers (PASEO) is as follows:4902 Carlisle Pike,268Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 Phone: 717-761-8648 Email: [email protected] Philadelphia, PA 18016 717-763-7762 [email protected] Pennsylvania Septage Management Association (PSMA)P.O. Box 144 Bethlehem, PA 18016 717-763-7762

Caring for Your Septic System

It is important not to flush any sort of wipe down the toilet, regardless of whether the box specifically states that they are “flushable.” These objects have the potential to block your home’s plumbing, as well as the pipes in the street and the important machinery at the wastewater treatment facility. The water in which personal care wipes, dental floss, paper towels, and tissues are flushed does not dissolve them rapidly – or at all – therefore they are not safe to flush down the toilet. Personal care items, cleaning supplies, and other home garbage should be disposed of appropriately, either in the trash, the recycling bin, or at your local domestic hazardous waste disposal facility.

  1. The term “septic system” refers to an individual wastewater treatment system (conventional septic systems, innovative/alternative (I/A) systems, or cesspools) that uses the soil to treat tiny wastewater flows, which are typically generated by a single residence.
  2. Septic systems are available in a variety of configurations today.
  3. In a normal septic system, there are three main components: the septic tank, a distribution box, and a drainfield, which are all connected by pipes known as conveyance lines.
  4. Primary treatment is the term used to describe this separation procedure.
  5. Flowing from the tank into a distribution box, which distributes the wastewater uniformly into a network of drainfield trenches, is how partially treated effluent is removed from the environment.
  6. Once in the subsurface soil, this effluent is further cleaned and filtered before being released back into the environment (secondary treatment).

Additional Resources for What is a Septic System?

According to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, a properly maintained septic system should be pumped out at least once every three years! Regular maintenance is the most crucial factor in ensuring that your septic system is in good working order. Pumping on a regular basis helps to keep particles from leaking into the drainfield and blocking the soil pores. While the frequency of pumping depends on the amount of consumption, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection advises that systems be pumped at least once every three years for households without a trash disposal.

  • The frequency with which you pump should be determined by the amount of water that has accumulated and the amount of water that has been pumped in the past.
  • It is astounding how many system owners assume that if they have not experienced any difficulties with their systems, they do not need to pump out their tanks.
  • Solid materials sink to the bottom of the tank when your system is utilized, resulting in the formation of a sludge layer.
  • In most cases, correctly engineered tanks have adequate room to safely store sludge for up to three to five years at a time.
  • As the amount of sludge in the system rises, more solid wastes are allowed to escape into the soil absorption system (SAS).
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When hiring a pumper, be certain that they are licensed by the local Board of Health, and always insist on receiving a paid receipt from the pumper that clearly outlines the terms of the transaction and the amount you paid (how many gallons were pumped out of the tank, the date, the charges, and any other pertinent results).

Keep a copy of this receipt as proof of purchase. In addition, a copy of this report is forwarded to the local Board of Health by the pumper.

Additional Resources for How often should I pump out my septic system?

  • It is recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection that a well-maintained septic system be pumped out at least once every three years. In order to ensure that your septic system functions properly, it is essential that you do regular maintenance. Performing regular pumping helps to prevent particles from leaking into the drainfield and being trapped in soil pores. The frequency of pumping depends on the amount of consumption, but for households without a trash disposal, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection advises that systems be pumped at least once every three years. An annual flushing of the home’s plumbing system should be performed if the system has a trash disposal. The frequency with which you pump should be determined by the amount of water that has accumulated and how much has been pumped in the past. In many cases, you may use pumping intervals to determine your pumping schedule (e.g., did you wait too long before having your tank pumped and it was full to capacity, or could you have waited just a little longer to pump?) An astonishing amount of system owners believe that if they haven’t experienced any difficulties with their systems, they aren’t required to pump out their tanks at all. The truth is that this is a major and sometimes expensive mistake. Solid materials sink to the bottom of the tank when your system is used, resulting in the formation of a sludge layer at the bottom of the tank. In the septic tank, scum is formed when grease and other light things float to the surface. As a rule of thumb, correctly engineered tanks have enough area to safely store sludge for three to five years. Sludge buildup causes sewage to have less time to settle correctly before it is released from the tank when the sludge level exceeds this threshold. As the amount of sludge in the system rises, more solid wastes are allowed to escape into the soil (SAS). If the SAS becomes clogged to the point that it is unable to absorb liquid at the pace at which it is being introduced into the tank, the piping will “back up,” and filthy effluent will bubble to the top of the liquid. Whenever you hire a pumper, double-check that they are licensed by the local Board of Health, and always insist on receiving a paid receipt from the pumper that clearly outlines all of the terms of the agreement (how many gallons were pumped out of the tank, the date, the charges, and any other pertinent results). This receipt should be saved for your records. A copy of this report is forwarded to the local Board of Health by the pumper, as well.
  • Non-biodegradables (cigarette butts, diapers, feminine items, and so on) and grease should not be disposed of down the toilet or sink. The use of non-biodegradable materials can clog the pipes, and grease can thicken and block the pipes as well. Cooking oils, fats, and grease should be stored in a container and disposed of in the garbage
  • Paint thinner, polyurethane, antifreeze, insecticides, certain dyes, disinfectants, water softeners, and other harsh chemicals should all be added to the system to ensure that it works properly. Septic tank malfunctions can be caused by the death of the biological component of your septic system and the contamination of groundwater. Typical home cleaners, drain cleaners, and detergents, for example, will be diluted in the tank and should not do any damage to the system
  • And Make use of a garbage grinder or disposal that drains into the septic tank to eliminate waste. If you do have one in your home, you should use it only in extremely limited circumstances. The addition of food wastes or other solids lowers the capacity of your system and increases the frequency with which you must pump your septic tank. If you utilize a grinder, you will have to pump the system more frequently. Trees should be planted within 30 feet of your system, and vehicles should not be parked or driven over any section of the system Tree roots may block your pipes, and heavy cars may cause your drainfield to collapse
  • However, you can prevent this from happening. You should not allow anybody to work on your system or pump it without first ensuring that they are licensed system specialists
  • Wash an excessive number of loads of clothing in your washing machine. Doing load after load deprives your septic tank of the time it needs to properly process wastes and causes the entire system to become overwhelmed with surplus wastewater. As a result, you might be overflowing your drain field without giving yourself enough time to recover from the inundation. To calculate the gallon capacity and the number of loads per day that may be safely pumped into the system, you should speak with a tank specialist. Cleaning the plumbing or septic system using chemical solvents is recommended. Microorganisms that devour toxic wastes will be killed by “miracle” chemicals that have been developed. These items have the potential to pollute groundwater as well.

Key Actions for Septic System Do’s and Don’ts

Septic systems that have been properly maintained can assist in preventing the spread of disease and other illnesses. System failures can have serious consequences.

  • Keeping septic systems in good working order helps to keep diseases from spreading across the community. Systems that are not functioning properly

Keep an eye out for the following warning signals of a malfunctioning system:

  • Surface sewage over the drainfield (particularly after storms)
  • Sewage backups in the home
  • Lush, green vegetation over the drainfield sewage smells
  • Toilets or drains that are difficult to empty

If your system fails, the first thing you should do is call your local board of health, which must authorize all modifications and the majority of repairs before they can be carried out or installed. The board of health will inform you of the steps that must be taken. In the event that your system fails, call your local Board of Health immediately!

Key Actions for Failing Septic Systems Can Be Hazardous to Your Health

In Chattanooga, Tennessee, there is a significant possibility that if you reside in a rural location, you may be in possession of a septic system, which is separate from the city’s sewer system. A septic system is made up of several components, including a septic tank, underground pipes, and a leach or drainage area. When you flush the toilet or flush the drain, the water waste will go via the subterranean pipes and into the drainage field, where it will be treated. The solid waste will be disposed of in a septic system.

The signs that it is time to call for septic tank pumping are critical to understanding if you have recently moved into your Chattanooga, Tennessee home and this is your first time having a septic system.

If you don’t identify the signals or if you ignore them, you might wind up causing damage to your septic tank or creating a septic tank backup that causes a stench throughout your house or yard.

Signs That You Need To Call For Septic Tank Pumping

If you reside in a rural part in Chattanooga, Tennessee, there is a considerable possibility that your home is equipped with a septic system, which is separate from the city’s sanitary sewer network. It is composed of three parts: a septic tank, subterranean pipelines, and a drainage field or leach field. When you flush the toilet or flush the drain, the water waste will flow via the subterranean pipes and into the drainage field, where it will be collected. The solid waste will be disposed of in a septic tank, as previously stated.

You must be able to recognize the signs that it is time to call for septic tank pumping if you have recently moved into your Chattanooga, TN home and this is your first experience with a sewer system.

In the event that you do not identify the signals or if you choose to ignore them, you may cause harm to your septic tank as well as create a noxious stench in your house or yard.

2 Slow Drains Or Sluggish Toilets

A slow drain or a sluggish toilet on a single floor indicates that the drain or pipes to the sink or toilet are faulty, and the problem will most likely be resolved by replacing the drain or pipes. If many drains are clogged at the same time, or if all of the toilets are running slowly, it is time to call professional septic tank pumping. This is an evident indication that you should get your septic tank pump installed. If you detect these problems early on, you should count yourself fortunate since you may prevent the situation from becoming worse by contacting a pumping company.

3 Foul Odors In Or Around the House

Because there is no other way for the gasses that cause the stink to escape than through the drains, toilets, or air around your drain field and septic tank when your septic tank is completely full of waste. These glasses have the potential to make your entire home and property smell bad. If you notice the scent of rotten eggs or any other unpleasant odor, you should contact a septic tank pumping company immediately. In general, the longer you wait, the more likely it is that your septic tank may rupture and overflow into your yard or through your drains and toilets.

4 Lush Green Grass Over the Drainage Field

Every Chattanooga, TN homeowner want to have a beautiful green lawn in their backyard or front yard. When your lawn is in excellent condition, it increases the value of your home’s curb appeal. While having lush green grass surrounding your drainage field is wonderful, having lush green grass around your drainage field but not the rest of your yard indicates that it is time to get your septic tank drained. In cases when the septic tank is overflowing, the waste might wind up in the drainage field, where it functions as fertilizer, which explains why the grass is so lush and green.

5 Standing Water In the Yard

In the aftermath of a rainfall, it is not uncommon for water to pool around yourChattanooga, TNhome or business. You should contact a septic tank pumping company if you observe pools of standing water around your home and it hasn’t rained recently. When the septic tank is overflowing and there is nowhere for the waste to go, it will overflow onto the yard around the septic tank or into the drainage field, causing damage to the surrounding landscape. This is an emergency scenario that necessitates the urgent hiring of a septic tank pumping company.

6 Sewage Backup

In the aftermath of a rainfall, it is not uncommon for water to collect around yourChattanooga, TN property. You should contact a septic tank pumping company if you observe pools of standing water around your home and it hasn’t rained in quite some time. When the septic tank is overflowing and there is nowhere for the waste to go, it will overflow onto the yard around the septic tank or into the drainage field, causing damage to the surrounding area.

Due to the nature of the problem, you should contact an emergency septic tank pumping service right once. In most cases, the longer you wait, the more serious the condition becomes.

Protecting the Health Of Your Septic Tank

There is more to maintaining the health of your septic tank than simply getting it pumped on a regular basis. There are a number of recommendations that you should follow in order to maintain the health and operation of your sewage system.

1 Don’t Use Flushable Wipes

Just because the packaging says “flushable wipe,” it does not imply that you should flush them down the toilet after you are through with them. Both your plumbing system and your septic system may be harmed by the use of these cleaning wipes. Putting a wipe down the toilet has the potential to become caught in the pipes and become trapped within the toilet bowl. If you keep flushing the wipes down the toilet, they will accumulate inside the pipes and eventually produce a significant blockage.

If you use flushable wipes on a regular basis, they will accumulate in your septic tank, resulting in the requirement for septic tank pumping to be performed much more regularly.

2 Be Careful About What Goes Down Your Kitchen Drain

In order to break down the waste products in the septic tank, your septic system relies on bacteria that naturally occurs in the environment. If you dump food or grease down the drain, or if you use too much detergent on your dishes, it will wind up in the septic tank, where it will overwhelm the bacteria in the septic tank, causing it to become unable to perform its function. After then, the performance of your septic system will begin to deteriorate, and you will be need to schedule septic tank pumping on a more frequent basis.

3 Don’t Pour Chlorine Bleach Based Products Down the Drain Or Toilet

Homeowners in Chattanooga, Tennessee, who use bleach-based cleaning solutions to clean their homes do so because they are effective at destroying bacteria on floors, surfaces, and appliances. Unfortunately, the antibacterial qualities of bleach may be extremely detrimental to your septic system. In order to break down the waste in the tank, your septic system relies on naturally existing bacteria to accomplish so. It is possible that antibacterial bleach will end up in your septic tank, where it will disrupt the bacteria that is essential for waste breakdown.

You should dispose of garbage outside rather than down the sink or toilet if you insist on using bleach-based cleaning solutions.

See also:  What Happens When Your Septic Tank Gets Full?

4 Conserve Water

ManyChattanooga, TNhomeowners use bleach-based cleaning solutions to keep their homes clean since they are effective at destroying bacteria on floors, surfaces, and appliances, among other things, Although bleach is effective at killing germs, the antibacterial qualities of bleach can be detrimental to your septic system. In order to break down the waste in the tank, your septic system relies on naturally occurring bacteria. If you flush antibacterial bleach down the toilet or down the sink, it will wind up in the septic tank, where it will destroy the bacteria that is essential to break down the waste.

Cleaning chemicals that are beneficial to the environment should be preferred. You should dispose of garbage outside rather than down the sink or toilet if you insist on using bleach-based products.

  • If you’re brushing your teeth, don’t leave the water running. Don’t leave the water running for any longer than is absolutely required. If your faucet is dripping, contact a plumber as soon as possible. As soon as you notice that your toilet is consistently running, call a plumber. Set the “eco” cycle on any water-based appliances you have.

As soon as you begin focusing on water conservation, you will realize that you will not need to call for septic tank pumping as frequently as you did in the previous months or years.

5 Be Careful With What You Plant Around the Septic Tank

Planted trees and shrubs can be beneficial to the health of your septic tank since they can control ground moisture and prevent soil erosion. Make certain that whatever you want to do around the septic tank is septic tank friendly before moving forward with the project. You can find a lot of information on septic tank compatible plants online, or you can ask someone at your local garden shop for help.

6 Keep Heavy Objects Away From the Septic Tank and Drainfield

Anything heavy should never be placed on top of the septic tank or drainage field. Septic tank damage may be caused by a variety of factors, including vehicles, swimming pools, outdoor storage buildings, and children’s playhouses, all of which can be costly to repair.

7 Plan the Setup Of Your Yard Carefully

Remember to take your septic system in mind while planning the layout of your yard. Putting anything heavy over the septic tank or in the drainage field is never a good idea, as previously stated. You’ll also want to make sure that the servicing hatch is simple to get to when necessary. When you call for routine septic tank pumping, the technician will need to be able to readily open the access hatch in order to pump out the tank. If they are unable to reach the access hatch because you have objects in the way, septic tank pumping might become difficult, if not impossible.

Why Choose Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning?

When it comes time for your septic tank to be pumped out on a regular basis, call Metro Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. For over 30 years, we have provided residential and commercial plumbing, heating, and air conditioning services to residents and businesses in Chattanooga, TN, Cleveland, and North Georgia. We are a family-owned and run business, and we take great satisfaction in delivering good service to all of our clients. We have a stellar reputation and are members of a number of notable organizations, including the following:

  • The Better Business Bureau, the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts, the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), and the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce are all good places to start.

Septic tank pumping and repair are simply a part of what we do. We are a full-service plumbing business that can address any problem you may be experiencing, no matter how large or little. We are also a full-service HVAC business, which means we can take care of just about any problem you may have in your house. Metro Plumbing, Heating, Air, and Septic specialists are aware that septic tank problems, plumbing problems, and HVAC problems may occur at any time of day or night, which is why they are available around the clock.

We will be available to assist you throughout regular business hours, on weekends, and even in the middle of the night if your problem arises.

This will guarantee that we are able to tackle your issue as fast and accurately as possible. Today is the best time to arrange an appointment with us.

Septic System Education – McCutcheon Enterprises, Inc. in PA

Septic tank pumping and repair are simply a part of what we provide. We are a full-service plumbing business that can address any plumbing problem you may have, no matter how large or minor it may appear to be to you. Our firm is also a full-service HVAC provider, which means that we can solve almost any issue that arises in your residence. septic tank problems may occur at any moment of the day or night, and the specialists atMetro Plumbing Heating Air and Septic understand this. They are available to help you at any time of day or night.

Please contact us during regular business hours, on weekends, or in the middle of the night, and we will be happy to assist you.

This will help us to fix your issue as fast and accurately as possible.

TWO MAIN TYPES OF ON-LOT WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS

The first compartment is made up of the following items:

  • This line permits wastewater to flow into the inlet baffle
  • The inlet baffle drives water downward as it enters the tank, allowing particles to settle out more efficiently
  • And the outlet baffle. Moreover, it prevents untreated effluent from skimming across the surface of the tank and escaping via the outflow. When it comes to the vast majority of scum and sludge layer formation, most of the sludge will settle to the bottom and the scum layer will build on top of it, with the water in the center. In the wall that separates the first compartment from the second compartment, there will be a hole or a pipe that will allow the water to pass through

This line permits wastewater to flow into the inlet baffle; the inlet baffle drives water downward as it enters the tank, allowing particles to settle out more effectively; and the outlet pipe. Moreover, it prevents untreated effluent from skimming across the surface of the tank and escaping via the outflow; During the majority of Scum and Sludge Layers, the solids will settle to the bottom and the scum layer will form on the surface, with water in the center. In the wall that divides the first compartment from the second compartment, there will be a hole or a pipe that will allow the water to pass through;

  • Baffle near the outlet, which stops the floating scum from migrating into the absorption region
  • In order to prevent solid particles from attaching to and exiting the tank, a gas deflector is used to divert gas bubbles away from the outflow pipe and stops them from entering the absorption region. Filtering the wastewater inhibits and limits the flow of any suspended particulates in the effluent (see image at right). The effluent is sent to the absorption region through the outlet pipe.

5 Main Functions of a Septic Tank

Septic tanks are responsible for collecting all of the wastewater generated by the residence. Septic tanks are used to separate solid waste from wastewater flow. Septic tanks are responsible for the reduction and breakdown of solid waste. Septic tanks are used to store the sediments that have been removed from the liquid (sludge and scum). Septic tanks discharge the purified wastewater (effluent) to the absorption region, where it is absorbed. Tanks for Anaerobic Treatment (Previous Next) The use of an air compressor or a propeller to maintain an aerobic (oxygenated) atmosphere for the development of microorganisms is described as a mechanical system.

Comparing aerobic tanks to septic tanks, aerobic tanks have higher initial expenses and higher maintenance costs, but they break down sewage more effectively and produce higher-quality effluent with less particulates, which minimizes the likelihood of an absorption area being blocked.

OTHER TYPES OF ON-LOT WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS

PITS FOR SEEPAGE A seepage pit is a deep hole that is 4-12 feet in diameter and 10-40 feet deep, with a porous-walled chamber in the center and a filling of gravel between the chamber and the surrounding soil on each side of the hole.

Effluent from the septic tank enters the chamber and is temporarily kept there until it seeps out and onto the soil surrounding the chamber. These methods have grown less prevalent as time has progressed.

CESSPOOL

The cesspool is considered to be the first kind of a septic system. A cesspool is often a cylindrical hole in the ground that is several feet in diameter and many feet deep. The majority of them have a permeable inner wall made of stone, masonry, or other building materials. Gravel is used to cover the outside surface of the wall (the area between the stone wall and the outer soil wall). The top of the structure is covered with a concrete lid, and the earth is then backfilled on top of the lid.

  1. Following its passage through the stones and gravel-filled outer chamber, wastewater eventually finds its way into the earth.
  2. An on-lot septic system accounts for almost 20 million residences and, as a result, approximately 29 percent of the population of the United States.
  3. Please refer to the chart on the right for further information!
  4. We at McCutcheon Enterprises, Inc.
  5. See the section below for some typical septic system misconceptions, as well as some Septic System Do’s and Don’ts to avoid.

ITEMS THAT SHOULDNOTBE PUT INTO A SEPTIC TANK

  • Diapers
  • Antifreeze or motor oil
  • Paper towels or toilet tissue that hasn’t been approved by the FDA. Drain cleaners that are harsh or caustic
  • Filters and buttes for cigarette smoking
  • Laundry detergents with a lot of foam
  • Plastic, bleach, eggshells, bones, and food scraps, as well as herbicides and pesticides, are all prohibited. Coffee grinds, cat litter, and excessive oils and grease are all examples of contaminants.

Common Septic System Do’s and Don’ts

  • Maintain the cleanliness and integrity of your septic system on a regular basis. Garbage disposals should be used as little as possible or not at all. Garbage disposals introduce additional materials into the system that are difficult to break down in the septic system.
  • Connecting roof drains and/or yard drains to your septic tank is not recommended. Due to the excess water, the tank and absorption area will be completely filled. Roots from trees in the absorption area will block the pipes in the region, thus avoid planting trees in the absorption area
  • Putting vehicles and large things (such as swimming pools) on top of your septic tank or absorption area is not a good idea.

Roof drains and/or yard drains should not be connected to your septic tank. It is possible that the additional water may overwhelm the tank and absorption area. In the absorption area, tree roots are likely to block the pipes, thus avoid planting trees in close proximity to the region. Putting vehicles and large things (such as swimming pools) on top of your septic tank or absorption area is not recommended.

  • Measure the amount of scum and sludge present and keep a record of it. In the majority of circumstances, you will need to pump empty your tank. The baffles in your tank should be checked to ensure that sediments are not leaving your tank. Cracks, leaks, and infiltration should all be looked for in the tank. Analyze the design and installation of the tank (this will allow you to check for any sensitivities or potential difficulties in the future)

The following items will be checked during the inspection of your absorption area:

  • Observe for symptoms of a faulty system (such as foul smells, mushy areas, or effluent on the surface)
  • And Surface water (which demonstrates inadequate filtering)
  • Examine the effluent distribution to ensure good operation. Check the absorption area for possibly dangerous bushes, trees, or any other risks that may be present.

The inspector will draw up a report detailing the findings of the examination as well as information about your septic system. This report is not intended to provide a guarantee; rather, it is intended to tell you if your septic system is in proper or improper functioning condition at the time of the inspection. When should I have a home inspection performed on my property? Inspecting and maintaining your septic system should be done on a regular basis. An inspection of the septic system should take place every one to three years, according to industry standards.

The inspection of the septic system before purchasing a home is strongly advised.

After passing through the septic tank, the purified wastewater (effluent) will be sent into the soil absorption system for treatment.

SEPTIC TANK DRAINFIELDThe drainfield is meant to release septic tank effluent below ground into the natural soil where it may be treated and eventually disposed.

In order to spread the effluent over the length of the trench, a perforated pipe will be installed at or near the top of the gravel.

Water will drain out of the septic tank through the output pipe and will continue to flow through a waterproof pipe to the drainfield trenches until it reaches the drainfields.

Water will drain from the perforated pipes and through the gravel, where it will seep into the soil beneath and next to the perforated pipes.

The cleaned liquid will ultimately evaporate, be absorbed by plants, or make its way into the groundwater.

There is a layer of gravel covering the bottom of the pit, and several pipes are set on top of the gravel with a spacing of 3-5 feet between them.

DistributionThe majority of traditional systems rely on gravity to transport effluent from the treatment tank to and through the absorption region, as shown in the diagram below.

Asymmetrical effluent distribution results in an overburdening of the absorption region, which can lead to a variety of difficulties and high expenses in the long run.

A distribution box is utilized in all trench systems, as well as certain bed systems, to split the flow in an equal amount.

Some systems need that the effluent be piped to the absorption region in order to function correctly. This occurs when the effluent cannot be transported to the absorption region by gravity alone, often because it must be pushed up a steep slope to reach the absorption area.

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