- Some other ways septic tanks are better for the environment are: Cuts pollution. Septic tanks cut pollution by making use of drainfields and leachfields, which serve as natural filters. Before wastewater reaches the soil, the contents are strained through the septic tank.
What are the disadvantages of having a septic tank?
Cons
- Maintenance costs $300-$600 every few years (which can still be cheaper than municipal sewer).
- It can cause groundwater contamination if the system leaks.
- If not maintained, you can have a costly mess on your hands.
- Septic tanks will eventually need to be replaced.
What are the pros and cons of having a septic tank?
More cost efficient – Extensive sewer lines are very expensive to build and maintain. On the other hand, a septic tank is cheaper to install and doesn’t come with monthly maintenance costs. Durability – When properly maintained, a septic tank rarely needs to be replaced.
Is septic tanks bad for health?
Septic tank fumes often carry airborne bacteria as well that can cause sinus infections and other respiratory problems. A failing septic system can also send mold spores back into your home, causing problems for those with asthma and mold allergies.
Can I sell my house with a septic tank?
If you currently have a septic tank that discharges to surface water then the sale will trigger the requirement to replace or upgrade the system. Buyers should satisfy themselves that any system is in good working order and does not cause pollution.
Is septic tank better than sewer?
Although septic systems require a bit more maintenance and attention, they have a number of advantages over sewer lines. Since they don’t pump wastewater long distances to be processed at a water treatment facility, they use less energy overall and have a smaller environmental impact.
Is having a septic tank good?
No. Many homes with septic systems also have a private well. But, the septic system is entirely independent from the well; its purpose is not to treat wastewater so it can become drinkable, but to safely disperse it in a way that prevents contamination, Mains says.
How many loads of laundry a day are safe to do with a septic tank?
Spread Out Laundry Loads These use less water which puts less stress on your septic system. Regardless of the type of appliance you have, you should still spread out your loads. Instead of doing several loads in one day, consider doing 1 load per day or space out 2 loads if you must do more in a single day.
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.
Can heavy rain affect septic tank?
It is common to have a septic back up after or even during a heavy rain. Significant rainfall can quickly flood the ground around the soil absorption area (drainfield) leaving it saturated, making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system.
Can septic tanks make you sick?
The fumes that waft out of a failing septic tank and into your home can carry airborne bacteria. These pathogens can make your family ill by triggering sinus infections and other respiratory illnesses when breathed in on a regular basis.
Do septic tanks smell?
A properly-maintained septic tank should be odor-free, so if you notice a bad smell inside your home or outside near the leach field, it’s a sign that there’s a problem. Septic odors are caused by gases in the system, including carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane.
Are septic tanks still legal?
Septic Tanks Explained… Septic tanks cannot discharge to surface water drains, rivers, canals, ditches, streams or any other type of waterway. you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.
Do septic tanks lower property value?
The research shows that having a septic system as opposed to a standard sewage system does not increase or decrease the value of your home, although there are some things about that septic system that can affect resale.
How close to the house can a septic tank be?
Local codes and regulations that stipulate the distance of the septic tank from the house vary depending on the locale, but the typical minimum distance is 10 feet.
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. In order to enable solids to settle to the bottom and form sludge, while oil and grease float to the top and produce scum, the tank must be large enough to contain both. Compartments and a T-shaped outlet prevent sludge and scum from leaving the tank and moving into the drainfield region. 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. Drainfields can flood if they become overloaded with liquid, causing sewage to overflow to the ground surface or causing backups in toilets and sinks. If a drainfield becomes overloaded with liquid, it can flood, causing sewage to overflow to the ground surface or causing backups in toilets and sinks
- And if a drainfield becomes overloaded with liquid, it can flood. Finally, the wastewater percolates into the soil, where it is naturally removed from the environment by coliform bacteria, viruses, and nutrients that are hazardous to humans. 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 Your Septic System Can Impact Nearby Water Sources
Septic systems have the potential to have an influence on nearby drinking water wells or surface water bodies. The amount to which this has an influence is determined by how well your septic system is maintained and how well it is used. To learn more about how septic systems interact with drinking water wells or surface water bodies, as well as how to keep them healthy, see the websites below. Septic Systems and the Purification of Drinking Water Septic systems clean wastewater for a large number of homeowners, many of whom also obtain their drinking water from wells on their properties.
Learn where your septic system is, how to run it, and how to keep it in good working order to protect adjacent wells.
A septic system is used to cleanse household wastewater before it is allowed to flow into the soil.
Learn how nutrients and pathogens from your septic system may affect streams, lakes, and other waterbodies in the vicinity of your house.
Some are straightforward, whilst others might be more difficult and expensive to implement. Make sure to speak with an experienced specialist in your region before making any big changes to your septic system.
Should You Avoid a House With a Septic System?
Real estate has traditionally been the preferred investment for people seeking to accumulate long-term wealth for their families and future generations. By subscribing to our complete real estate investment guide, you will receive assistance in navigating this asset class. Whenever you have solid waste in your house, the solution is straightforward: throw it in the trash or compost it. But what about garbage that is liquid in nature? Everyone’s house generates a certain amount of wastewater, and when it comes to disposing of it, there are typically two options: a public sewage line or an on-site septic system.
Even if you’re buying a property with well water, you should consider installing a septic system to keep the water clean.
Or is it a decision you’re more likely than not going to come to regret, whether you’re buying a home for yourself or as an investment in the future?
What is a septic system?
Sewage systems remove wastewater from your house and channel it via a sewer line to be treated at a treatment center. The water is then treated at that facility to remove impurities and make it safe to drink, after which it is returned to the local water system that serves your house and neighborhood. According to the design of a traditional septic system, all of the wastewater that must be removed from your home is routed down a drainage pipe and into an underground septic tank. Septic tanks may be composed of several materials including concrete, fiberglass, and other composite materials.
Solids are allowed to settle to the bottom and form a scum layer.
From there, wastewater is dumped through pipelines into the surrounding soil, where it might filter through.
When you have a sewage system, you will often have a large number of residences that all feed into the same system.
Types of septic systems
In the event that you are unfamiliar with septic tank installation, you can select from a number of various options:
- In the event that you are unfamiliar with septic tank installation, you may select from a variety of solutions.
Benefits of a septic system
When you own a septic system, you are responsible for keeping it in good working order. Aside from the financial implications, this might be a positive development because it implies you can avoid difficulties by keeping up with your maintenance. With a municipal sewer system, a sewer pipe can leak or back up, and if the problem is not fixed immediately, you might find yourself with a severe problem on your hands, even if you were not the one who caused the problem. Furthermore, there is usually a price associated with utilizing a public sewer system; often, you will be charged a monthly or quarterly fee.
Moreover, when building a new home from the ground up, it is generally less expensive to install a septic system than it is to pay to have sewer lines installed – this is especially true when your home is located in an area where setting up a sewer connection would necessitate a significant amount of infrastructure investment.
The way septic tanks discharge water into the surrounding soil can encourage plant development, which is beneficial to the environment.
Finally, septic systems have the potential to survive for a very long time if they are designed properly and maintained regularly throughout time. Septic systems have an average life expectancy of 25 to 30 years provided they are properly maintained and serviced.
Drawbacks of a septic system
A septic system, on the other hand, has various drawbacks and costs that you may have to bear in mind while installing one. Aside from the fact that septic systems need to be maintained, You’ll need to pump out your septic tank every three years (or more frequently if necessary) to keep sludge accumulation from becoming too large. The exact timing will be determined on the size of your tank. In addition, you should have your septic system inspected once or twice a year to verify that it is in proper operating condition.
For the most part, this implies that you’re restricted to flushing just human waste and toilet paper into the toilet.
- Items such as paper towels that are thick and absorbent, feminine products, cooking oil or grease, baby wipes, and household chemicals
A septic system also means that you won’t be able to install a garbage disposal under your kitchen sink, because even though that disposal will grind up items to prevent clogged pipes, you don’t want to take the chance that those items will make their way into your septic system and cause an unhealthy buildup. Additionally, when you have a septic system, there are additional landscaping issues to take into mind. In particular, you must avoid planting trees exactly next to your septic system’s drain field; otherwise, the roots of the trees might grow into the drain field and cause the system to cease functioning correctly.
The bottom line on septic systems
A septic system often provides you with the ability to purchase property that has greater acreage and to reap the benefits that come along with that decision. If you’re looking to buy a home as an investment, the presence of additional land might be a significant selling feature. Be careful you understand the type and frequency of maintenance that will be required to keep your septic system up and running. The last thing you want is to find yourself with a pricey situation on your hands that is difficult to resolve.
Septic System Impacts – depth, source, oxygen, human
As water is flushed down the toilet in an urban setting, it travels via sewage lines and finally ends up at a treatment facility. Water is treated before it is discharged to ensure that it does not contain any microorganisms that might be hazardous to human health or the environment. Where does the wastewater go when a toilet is flushed outside of a municipality, such as in a rural location or an area that is not otherwise served by a sewage system, and how is it handled are both important questions.
Components
Septic systems (as seen in Figure 1) are comprised of four major components:
- Septic tanks to separate solids
- Drainfields to carry wastewater underground
- A natural soil surrounding the tank to treat bacteria and absorb certain chemical pollutants
- And groundwater to dilute any toxins that remain.
An onsite (unsewered) wastewater disposal system is the most frequent method of treating and disposing of wastewater in rural houses (see Figure 1). Figure 1. Septic systems account for the vast majority of onsite waste disposal systems in the United States. It is noteworthy to note that all that is required to operate a septic system is the force of gravity, with wastewater serving as the only input. If a septic system is correctly constructed and maintained, it may remove many health and environmental problems associated with wastewater.
Septic Tank.
In a septic system, the septic tank serves as the initial step in the treatment process. The septic tank can hold approximately one day’s worth of waste water. During this period, the force of gravity forces fat and other lighter-than-water particles to clump together and float to the surface of the water, forming a scum. Sludge is a term used to describe particles that are heavier than water and sink to the bottom of a body of water. As a consequence of this treatment, the intermediate layer of the septic tank contains wastewater that contains only trace amounts of solids.
The outflow water still includes bacteria from the human digestive tract, as well as the majority of the chemicals that were flushed down the drain at that particular residence or business establishment.
Drainfield.
Wastewater is discharged from the septic tank into a drainfield, which is sometimes known as a leach line or a soil absorption area. The drainfield is made up of a system of subterranean pipes, most of which are made of plastic and have holes in them. In the absence of proper drainage, wastewater leaks through the pipes and soaks into the surrounding soil. A typical drainfield construction method involves digging trenches several feet deep and several feet wide, filling the trench with gravel, and laying down a drainage system (see Figure 2).
The groundwater, which may be the source of a drinking-water well on a neighboring property downgradient, can nevertheless be contaminated by toxins from a septic system.
The length and depth of a drainfield are determined by the amount of people who will be utilizing the facility, as well as the features of the soil and geology at the location in question.
Not all drainfields in existence are capable of treating wastewater to modern-day standards of effluent treatment. In certain regions, new drainfield building methods that do not include the use of gravel are being tested.
Soil.
In septic systems, soil is responsible for the majority of the wastewater treatment (see Figure 2). As wastewater drains downward by gravity, the soil binds or filters many of the hazardous bacteria and viruses, keeping them until they die or are consumed by other microorganisms living in the soil, so preventing their spread. Some chemicals may be linked to soil grains or converted to safer forms by reactions in the soil; nonetheless, many goods that are flushed down the toilet wind up seeping into the groundwater and contaminating the water table.
Nitrate and Groundwater.
Nitrate (NO3) is produced as a by-product of wastewater treatment by septic systems. The breakdown of nitrogen-rich proteins in wastewater results in the formation of nitrate in the soil. If septic systems are located at a distance from one another, the large amount of groundwater in the surrounding region generally dilutes the nitrate concentration. Septic systems have been linked to high amounts of nitrate in groundwater in some cases, particularly in cases where septic systems are installed on small parcels or when natural rainfall is insufficient.
Proper (and Improper) Design and Maintenance
In order for a septic system to effectively treat wastewater, it must be properly constructed and maintained. The septic tank must be large enough to accommodate the volume of wastewater that is discharged into it. A typical home has a tank that contains between 1,000 and 1,500 gallons of water (3,790 to 5,685 liters). Every few years, the solids in the tank must be collected and disposed of.
Improper Functioning.
If the septic tank is too small or if the solids fill up the tank’s volume, too many big particles will be transported to the drainfield, clogging the soil and causing it to back up. Once this has occurred, wastewater will no longer drain downward as it should. rather than flowing into the drainfield, wastewater will saturate the soil above the drainfield, eventually pooling on the ground surface (that is, if the lines do not clog first and cause the toilet to back up). A drainfield can also be harmed by activities that block the pipes or compact the soil, such as the invasion of tree roots or the drive of vehicles or heavy equipment across the drainfield’s surface area.
- It is possible that illnesses could spread across a stream if this wastewater enters it, either directly or by precipitation runoff.
- If this wastewater finds its way into a drinking-water well, the occupants will be drinking human waste as a result of this.
- The depth of soil under the leach lines required to filter and bind bacteria before water reaches groundwater is lacking in many drainfields, for example.
- It is possible for a drainfield to be adequately situated but not properly operating to cause effluent to rise to the surface, harming surrounding streams and lakes.
Some septic tanks may not even be linked to a drainfield; instead, the wastewater discharge just flows down the land surface to the groundwater table below.
Preventive Measures
A variety of measures have been implemented to assist mitigate the negative impact of septic systems on water quality. Most states have regulations for the installation of new septic systems as well as the repair of systems that are not functioning correctly. Detecting places where septic systems are contributing to water quality issues is accomplished by monitoring of groundwater and surface water. It is being researched and developed new designs to better treat wastewater in instances when the use of a typical septic tank and drainfield does not provide appropriate treatment.
Finally, increased public knowledge of the dangers posed by hazardous home chemicals and sewage, as well as more possibilities for safe disposal, could help to reduce the amount of toxins that reach groundwater through septic systems.
Proper Disposal of Household Chemicals.
Septic systems are incapable of dealing with pollutants other than microorganisms. This results in the release of nitrogen and household chemicals into groundwater that were inappropriately disposed of down the drain. Among the substances that should never be flushed down the toilet or put into a storm sewer are degreasers, drain cleaners, insect killer, paint, gasoline, garden chemicals, and old motor oil. The most environmentally friendly method for disposal is typically for the customer to use up or degrade the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or to transport it to a facility where proper disposal processes are followed.
Motor oil and latex paint are recycled in a large number of localities.
Providing the product, such as laundry detergent, is intended to be combined with water for use in the household, it is OK to pour it down the drain if the product is disposed of according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Everything else should be disposed of properly.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of a Septic Tank System
Indoor plumbing is considered to be one of man’s crowning achievements. Yet, in today’s world, we rarely think about how all of the waste water generated in our homes gets disposed of. There are two quite distinct designs, to be precise. Urban regions are characterized by the widespread use of municipal sewage lines to link several dwellings and convey the waste water to a treatment plant. But in rural regions, individual residences are usually equipped with their own septic tanks.
While many houses may not have a choice between sewer lines and a septic tank, it is beneficial to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each system. You might also be shocked to hear that having a septic tank provides a number of perks.
How a septic tank works
Typically, concrete, steel, or fiberglass are used to construct the septic tank. It is buried underground, away from the house’s foundation (usually at the back or side of the property). Water that is used in a sink or toilet is diverted into a septic tank, where it is separated from the waste and water. The water is discharged from the tank into the surrounding soil, and the garbage is collected until it is pumped out during routine maintenance. a.
Living with a septic system
When your home is equipped with a septic tank, you must be mindful of the amount of water you consume in order to avoid overburdening the system. The plus or bad side of this is that homeowners now have an incentive to be more water efficient and responsible with their drains by avoiding dumping non-food things that may create a blockage in the first place.
Pros of a septic tank
- More cost-effective — The construction and maintenance of extensive sewage systems is extremely expensive. A septic tank, on the other hand, is less expensive to build and does not require ongoing maintenance. Durability — When properly maintained, a septic tank will last for many years and will seldom need to be replaced. Septic tanks are environmentally beneficial since they do not pollute the water supply. They are responsible for removing bacteria from the water before it is discharged into the soil. In addition, the recycled water is absorbed by the plant life in the surrounding area.
Cons of a septic tank
- Maintenance is required on a regular basis — the tank must be pumped every three to five years. This expense, which can range between $200 and $400, is the obligation of the property owner. Drains backed up – Septic lines can become blocked by a variety of things (many of which should not have been flushed or poured down the toilet in the first place). Slow sink and tub draining, as well as toilets that take a long time to flush, are all signs of a backup. In the event that you see any of these, call a plumber to evaluate the septic system. Pipes having the potential to burst – The consequences of having a drainage pipe leading to your septic tank break are potentially disastrous. It might happen because of tree roots, a car rolling over it, an accident while excavating, an earthquake, or any number of other factors. Due to the infiltration of sewage into the soil, the ground will become wet, and you will almost certainly detect a bad odor. In order to avoid more damage, the broken pipe must be replaced as quickly as feasible.
After weighing the advantages and disadvantages, it becomes evident that a septic tank has a lot to offer. When homeowners keep their tanks in good condition and are conscious of their water consumption, a septic system may provide decades of dependable, low-cost waste water management for their household. If you have a septic tank in New Haven or Fairfield County and are experiencing difficulties with your system, Rick’s Plumbing is always here to assist you. Give us a call at (203) 874-6629 if you have any questions.
- The post was published on February 18, 2019 in the category Septic Tank System.
Increased Use Of Septic Tanks Raises Concerns For Environment, Public Health
The number of residences in the United States that have on-site sewage treatment is increasing, which has prompted some environmentalists to express concern. (Photo courtesy of Philippe Huguen/AFP via Getty Images) ) Home wastewater systems are becoming increasingly popular as a result of the millions of people around the country who have been ordered to stay at home. Many Americans will see an increase in the use of septic tanks as a result of this. Home sewage treatment is becoming increasingly popular in this nation, which has prompted some environmentalists to express their worry about the practice.
- She notes that the prevalence of septic tanks varies from state to state, but that homebuilders have reported that the number is growing.
- Many more people are migrating out from cities and into rural regions and deeper suburbs, where there is no infrastructure for town sewage systems to serve them.
- She points out that many people live within an hour of a major city and that, in many cases, it is not feasible to build a wastewater treatment facility that far out into the countryside.
- “It is very frequently a less expensive choice to treat your wastewater closer to where it is being collected,” she explains.
- The expense and upkeep of a septic tank, on the other hand, are the responsibility of the property owner.
- Surface waters, or the top layer of a body of water, can be impacted by these legacy systems, according to her.
- In coastal areas, she explains, incorrect handling of nitrogen from septic tanks can result in algal blooms due to nutrient runoff.
According to her, different towns around the United States employ a variety of approaches for tracking home wastewater systems and management needs.
According to her, these drain fields are constructed above the water table, which serves as a barrier between the soil surface and the point at which groundwater becomes saturated.
According to Heger, this makes septic systems vulnerable to the effects of sea level rise.
“If the sea level rises and has an influence on where groundwater is found, this might have a detrimental impact on septic systems,” says the author.
She claims that improperly treated sewage transmits disease, which has resulted in more attention being paid to the subject of wastewater treatment in recent years.
Allison Hagan altered it for use on the internet. This piece will appear on May 15, 2020, at 8:00 p.m. ET.
The Impact of Septic Systems on the Environment
Septic tank waste disposal systems are used by over half of the houses and businesses in the Long Island Sound watershed. Septic systems, when installed and maintained on a regular basis, may be an effective waste management choice when used properly. However, if they are not properly sited and maintained, they can cause contamination of surface and groundwater resources, resulting in public health and environmental concerns. What Septic Systems Are and How They Work A receiving tank and a leaching system are the two most important components of a septic system.
Light materials float on top of the water in the tank, generating a layer of scum on the surface of the water (see Figure 1).
A septic tank should be large enough to store at least one day’s worth of wastewater from the residence, as well as to accommodate the storage of sludge and scum, in order to give particles enough time to settle and bacteria enough time to break down the sludge and bacteria.
Why to Use a Septic Tank at Home?
Sewage or septic tank disposal are both necessary methods of getting rid of trash. However, when done right, one is more environmentally friendly than the other – so let’s have a look at some of the advantages of using a septic tank. The following is from Wikipedia: “A septic tank is an important component of a septic system, which is a small-scale sewage treatment system prevalent in locations where there is no connection to the main sewage pipelines supplied by municipal governments or private organizations.” Pumps, alarms, sand filters, and cleared liquid effluent disposal techniques such as a septic drain field, ponds, natural stone fiber filter plants, or peat moss beds are examples of additional components that are normally under the jurisdiction of local governments.
Septic Tanks Are Good For The Environment
Septic tanks remove waste from the environment by utilizing the soil’s natural filtration mechanism. Prior to ending up in the leachfield or drainfield, wastewater is filtered by the septic tank and then discharged. Once the wastewater has been pumped out of the septic tank, the bacteria in the soil filter it out, making the water safe to drink and reuse. The usage of septic tanks allows for the replenishment of local water tables in a natural manner. In addition, septic tanks contribute to this cycle by recycling wastewater, which benefits the local animal population.
Septic Tanks Last For Years
As long as it is properly maintained and pumped on a regular basis, a septic tank can survive for several years. Septic tanks typically endure between 20 and 40 years in most circumstances.
With good care and maintenance, it is feasible to utilize a septic tank for a longer period of time. It is important to hire a qualified specialist to do routine maintenance on the tank and to prevent blockages and other problems.
Septic Tanks Are An Affordable Option
As long as it is properly maintained and pumped on a regular basis, a septic tank may endure for many years. Septic tanks have a lifespan of between 20 and 40 years in the majority of circumstances. A septic tank may be used for a longer period of time if it is maintained and cared for properly. Choosing the proper specialist to perform regular tank maintenance and to prevent blockages and other problems is critical.
Schedule A Septic Tank Pumping
You must get your septic tank examined and pumped on a regular basis if you want it to last. The expense of maintaining your septic tank is less expensive than the cost of depending on a public sewage system to dispose of your wastewater. Septic tanks are also more environmentally friendly than other methods of disposal.
Why You Should Consider A Septic System
Having your septic tank checked and pumped on a regular basis is essential for its proper operation and maintenance. The expense of maintaining your septic tank is less expensive than the cost of depending on a public sewage system to dispose of your waste water. Septic tanks are also more environmentally friendly than other options.
Septic Tanks Are Better For The Environment
The usage of a septic tank will help you lower your environmental footprint since this system eliminates wastewater by utilizing the soil’s natural filtration mechanism. The septic tank is responsible for filtering the water before it is discharged into the soil. The bacteria are subsequently removed from the water by the soil, which makes it safe to consume and reuse. By utilizing a septic tank, you will be assisting in the replenishment of the water table found under your property. The fact that you are recycling your wastewater on your property means that the local water table is constantly being refilled, which is helpful to the plants and animals.
You Won’t Have To Replace The Tank
If you keep your septic tank in good condition, it will last as long as your house. Septic tanks may last for up to forty years, and even longer if you get them inspected and maintained on a regular basis by an experienced specialist. You should seek the services of a professional who can maintain your septic tank on a regular basis in order to avoid damage and obstructions.
Septic Tanks Cost Less
Water expenses will be greater if you use a public sewage system, which is why you should avoid it. Using a septic tank is far more economical than using a sewer system since there are no expenditures associated with it other than the initial construction and periodic maintenance. A septic tank installation will cost you depending on how much of a tank you want, what type of system you choose, and where your property is located, but you will save money in the long run if you install one.
Have Your Septic Tank Pumped
You must get your septic tank drained and examined on a regular basis if you want it to function properly.
This may be accomplished using a septic tank pump or by hiring a professional to assist you. It is critical to keep your septic tank in good functioning order in order to extend its lifespan and avoid problems. Saving money while also decreasing your carbon impact can benefit you in the long run.
How To Properly Care For Your Septic Tank
- Maintain a record of your activities. System plans and drawings, as well as some service documents, should be kept on hand at all times. This will make it simpler to locate your septic tank and will provide you with an indication of how frequently the system should be examined and maintained in the future. When it comes to laundry, be cautious. Ideally, you should spread your laundry out over the course of the week rather than washing all of your items on one single day. Instead of using a liquid fabric softener, use dryer sheets, and pick detergents that are biodegradable and do not cause suds. Make repairs to your plumbing. In the event that you have a leak in your home, a large amount of water may be drained into your septic tank. Inspect your fixtures for leaks and fix any that you discover. Your septic tank and drain field will survive longer as a result of this. Water softeners should be used with caution. It is possible that your local regulatory body will allow you to use softeners that release different amounts of softener depending on how much water you use. The fact is, water softeners can cause harm to your septic system, so be cautious while using them. Food waste should be handled with care. It is possible that your local regulatory body will authorize you to utilize a waste disposal. Keep in mind that if you use a garbage disposal, you will have to empty the septic tank more frequently since the solids will build up more quickly. When disposing of significant volumes of food waste, it is preferable to utilize the trash disposal rather than pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain. This will cause blockages in your septic tank and can make it harder for the microorganisms to break down the waste in your tank
- Instead, use biodegradable chemicals to clean your tank. Citric acid, chlorine, and other biodegradable cleaning and disinfecting products can be used to clean and disinfect your home. Avoid the use of items that include pine oil or quaternary ammonium nitrate. If at all possible, avoid using drain cleaners to clear obstructions unless absolutely necessary
- It is not recommended to connect floor drains to your septic system. A garage or a workshop with floor drains may result in the entry of gases, sawdust, and oils into the home’s septic system. Never flush medication down the toilet. Any prescription medications that contain antibiotics could have a negative impact on your septic system. It is preferable to dispose of expired medication in the trash or to return it to your doctor or local pharmacy for disposal. Additives should not be used. Although enzymes and additives for septic systems are available, the tank should already contain all of the bacteria necessary to break down the waste it contains. Using additives or enzymes is not necessary and could be harmful
- Be careful with toilet paper. Choose non-quilted paper and avoid buying paper with color dyes since bacteria might not be able to break down the dyes. If you use brown toilet paper that has not been bleached, you should know that the break down process might take longer and that you will need to have your septic tank pumped more frequently. Do not flush thicker materials such as paper towels or wipes
Image courtesy of Flickr
Buying A House With A Septic Tank: Pros And Cons
Do you want to buy a house, but it has a septic tank, and you’re not sure what to check for when you go looking? Several considerations should be made while looking at a house that has an underground septic system. Here’s what you should do to make sure your septic system is in working order before purchasing a home. Learn about the laws in your area. Septic systems are custom-designed to compliment your property and meet local building codes. These local ordinances may include requirements for septic tank inspection, maintenance, and replacement, among other things.
- If you decide to expand your home and add plumbing, they may also need you to install a larger septic tank to accommodate the additional waste.
- Septic systems must be inspected and maintained on a regular basis in order to avoid complications.
- Their job will be to search for leaks and blockages, identifying possible problems before they become major ones.
- It is recommended that you ask to examine the tank’s inspection history before purchasing a house with a septic tank.
- You must have a general understanding of the septic tank’s technical parameters.
- Additionally, you must be aware of the date it was installed, because septic tanks may need to be updated every 20-40 years.
- Make Preparations for Routine Maintenance A septic tank must be examined, maintained, and emptied on a regular basis in order to avoid problems.
Depending on the size of the tank, this can cost anywhere from $300 to $600 on average.
The distinction is that if you flush something down the toilet that shouldn’t be there, it becomes your responsibility on a septic system.
Pipes that are clogged can leak and sewage can back up into your home as a result of these obstructions.
Understand what may go wrong.
It is possible to create a large amount of mess when there are leaks, broken and clogged pipes, and flooding in a drain field.
Due to an excessive amount of liquid present either within the tank or within the drain field, a tank may fail to drain properly – or at all.
Spot Potential Problems As Soon As They Appear You must be able to recognize a possible problem before it manifests itself as a genuine one. Peculiar scents, unusual plumbing indicators, poor drainage, and backflow into your drains are all indications that your septic tank needs to be inspected.
Are Septic Systems Bad for the Environment?
Many people in the United States are becoming increasingly concerned about our environmental effect. Plastic pollution is out of control, and our oceans are clogged with waste. The natural habitat for local species is being destroyed, and our dependency on plastic is becoming excessive. Our garbage and the consequences of it have increased to proportions that we are unable to control. These considerations may have an impact on the home-buying process for persons who are environmentally concerned.
Septic vs Sewer
The majority of homeowners are unaware of the significant distinctions between a septic system and a sewer system. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of them, but they both work in a similar way to cleanse wastewater before it is released back into the environment. Many homes find that having a sewage system is handy because there is no maintenance necessary as long as nothing goes wrong with the system. However, because of the ever-increasing volume of garbage produced by each household, these sewage systems place a significant burden on our local infrastructure, which must cope with the consequences.
How does a Septic System Work?
In order to purify water before it is discharged into the soil, a septic system goes through numerous steps. After leaving the home, water is diverted into a holding tank, which is referred to as the septic tank. This tank is separated into two sections, and it is in these sections that the initial breakdown of dangerous bacteria takes place. Natural occurring bacteria colonize the interior of this tank and break down any solid materials before it is sent to the second half of the tank for further processing.
Once the water has been drawn down through the soil, it is gently discharged into a drain field that has been properly prepared to allow any further impurities to be removed during the process.
So, is a Septic System Bad for the Environment?
You could still be debating whether or not septic systems are hazardous for you. With appropriate maintenance and care, a septic system may be an effective and ecologically responsible solution to handle residential wastewater, and the answer is no. The failure of homeowners to properly maintain their septic systems, on the other hand, has the potential to have severe environmental consequences as well as high repair expenses down the road.
Responsible Septic System Usage
Let’s take a look at some of the ways that you can take good care of your septic system in order to avoid difficulties in the future.
Flush Responsibly
One of the most important ways you can be responsible is to pay attention to what you flush down the toilet and into your septic system. Many other types of materials such as toilet wipes, coffee grinds, harsh chemicals, and many more can be detrimental to your system and reduce its effectiveness.
These items should not be flushed down the toilet or into any drainage system, including the public sewer system. They do not decompose and can cause major obstructions in both a septic system and the bigger sewer system pipes. They should be disposed of properly.
Avoid grease
This one is so significant that it deserves to be included in its own section. Grease, in particular, may be extremely harmful to your septic system. Numerous people dump extra oil down the drain while running hot water in the hope that this will allow the grease to drain without causing any issues. Typically, this is effective. At the very least, our drain lines within the home are clear. They do not, however, consider what will happen once the item has traveled farther down the line. It is likely that once this grease makes its way into your septic system, it will begin to harden, causing a backlog as well as other possible issues to arise.
Don’t DIY Clean
This one is so significant that it deserves to be included in its own chapter. When it comes to septic systems, grease is particularly destructive. Numerous individuals throw extra oil down the drain while running hot water in the hope that this will allow the grease to drain without clogging. The majority of the time, this is effective. At the very least, in our house’s drain lines. They do not, however, consider what would happen once the package reaches its destination. It is likely that once this grease makes its way into your septic system, it will begin to harden, causing a backlog as well as other possible issues in the system.
Professional Maintenance
It is necessary to have your septic system properly serviced in order to guarantee that it is not detrimental to your pocketbook or the environment. This involves frequent inspections of the tank as well as regular pumping of the tank. The frequency of these inspections and pumpings vary widely depending on the type of system you have, the size of your home, and the size of your tank you have installed. Because of this, it’s a good idea to have a professional business assess your family’s requirements and assist you in developing a strategy to extend the life of your septic tank while reducing the likelihood of any problems occurring.
If your system has any mechanical components, you should get it inspected on a more frequent basis to verify that it is in proper working order.
Septic tanks can get so full that they are no longer capable of handling all of the effluent.
In order to avoid this situation, it is critical that you pump your tank before it reaches this position.
Your Environmental Impact is up to you
Your contribution to environmental concerns is totally up to you, as is the case with all environmental issues. The use of a septic system is not harmful to the environment. An irresponsible proprietor is one. It will take time and effort on the part of people who care to make the world a more ecologically conscious place.
The same may be said for any waste management method that we employ. By consciously choosing to take good care of our environment and to be responsible citizens of our world we may recycle, carpool, reduce our usage of single use plastics, and maintain our septic systems. Posts from the recent past
Sewer or Septic?: When It Comes to Sewage, Most People Prefer to Share the Burden
Sign up for free newsletters from Scientific American. ” data-newsletterpromo article-image=” data-newsletterpromo article-button-text=”Sign Up” data-newsletterpromo article-button-link=” name=”articleBody” itemprop=”articleBody”> name=”articleBody” itemprop=”articleBody”> Greetings, EarthTalk: Which is better for the local ecology: sewage treatment plants or septic tank systems? —T. H., of Darien, Connecticut You’re unlikely to have much of a say in whether the house you’re considering buying is on a sewer system or a septic system.
When it comes to the environment, there are advantages and disadvantages to each option.
A similar process is used by onsite septic systems and community-wide sewage systems, which utilize microorganisms to filter away bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing pathogens before releasing the purified water back into the environment.
That’s because it places more responsibility on the local government, which supposedly has the resources and experience to guarantee that wastewater is properly processed throughout the region.
In addition, because shared sewer systems are typically built to withstand heavy loads, they can better accommodate periods of heavy precipitation or storm surges that would otherwise overwhelm smaller, poorly designed or maintained home-based septic tanks, which are more prone to overflowing and releasing contaminants into nearby surface and ground waters by virtue of their size and the laws of physics than larger, better-designed or maintained shared sewer systems.
Septic systems, on the other hand, have their supporters who believe that a system that has been professionally designed, constructed, and maintained should be able to withstand even the most severe storms.
When homeowners fail to properly maintain their septic systems, however, they can become a source of concern for the local ecology.
According to the University of Minnesota, inadequately treated sewage can be a contributing factor to the development of hepatitis, dysentery, and other illnesses caused by bacteria in drinking water, as well as a threat to the cleanliness of lakes and streams in the area.
Improperly handled sewage can also lead to an increase in nitrates in local water sources, which can be harmful to newborns, pregnant women, and those who already have impaired immune systems, among other things.
TO CONTACT: Septic System Owner’s Guide, available at http://extension.umn.edu/distribution/naturalresources/septicsystemownersguide.html.
E-mail your questions about the environment to EarthTalk at P.O. Box 5098 in Westport, Connecticut 06881 or at [email protected]. Previous columns can be found at:. EarthTalk is now available as a book! Details and ordering information may be found at:.