Installing a septic aeration system can increase the longevity of your current septic tank and drainfield by increasing the efficiency of the decomposition agents inside the system. In the typical septic tank environment, lack of oxygen causes the proliferation and dominance of anaerobic bacteria.Installing a septic aeration system can increase the longevity of your current septic tank and
Septic drain field – Wikipedia
by increasing the efficiency of the decomposition agents inside the system. In the typical septic tank environment, lack of oxygen causes the proliferation and dominance of anaerobic bacteria.
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- The best and most cost-effective way to increase the working capacity of your existing septic tank is to boost its efficiency from the inside out. Installing a septic aerator can provide significant increases in decomposition rates and remediation processes within the tank by providing a fertile environment for highly efficient aerobic bacteria.
What to put in septic tank to break down solids?
Yeast helps actively breaks down waste solids when added to your septic system. Flush ½ cup of dry baking yeast down the toilet, the first time. Add ¼ cup of instant yeast every 4 months, after the initial addition.
How can I improve my septic tank performance?
The secrets on how to improve your septic system
- The secret to a good septic system!!
- 1: Regular Pumping.
- 2: Regular Inspection.
- 3: Keep Accurate records.
- 4: Reduce Water Consumption.
- 5: Things you should avoid putting into your system:
- 6: Improve your septic system design:
What breaks down waste in septic tank?
The septic tank has microbes, especially bacteria, which break down and liquefy the organic waste. In phase one, the wastewater is introduced into the septic system where solids settle down to form the sludge and scum layers as the anaerobic bacteria digest the organic waste.
How long does it take waste to decompose in a septic tank?
In addition, during the approximate two to three days wastewater resides in the septic tank, the biodegradable organics in the septic tank are expected to decompose, in the absence of oxygen, into less complex organic compounds.
What eats sludge in septic tank?
One example of a homemade remedy is to flush ¼-½ a cup of instant yeast down your toilet. The yeast eats away at the sludge and helps loosen it, breaking it down so that wastewater can get through.
How do you dissolve sludge in a septic tank?
One is to inject air into the tank to try and mix the contents and break down the solids. The more common method is to use a mechanical mixer that acts somewhat like a baking mixer where the contents are mixed until they form a slurry that can be withdrawn by the vacuum pump.
Should I add lime to my septic tank?
Hydrated lime can be bought from any hardware store. It should be added to the septic tank by either being flushed down the toilet or by running it through the kitchen sink. Approximately 5 kg of hydrated lime are needed for a regular-sized septic tank, according to the Outback Communities Authority website.
How do I keep my septic tank healthy?
Do’s and Don’ts when maintaining your septic system
- Regularly inspect and maintain your septic system.
- Pump your septic tank as needed.
- Keep your septic tank lids closed and secured.
- Be water-wise.
- Direct water from land and roof drains away from the drainfield.
- Landscape with love.
- Keep septic tank lids easily accessible.
What are the signs that your septic tank is full?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:
- Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
- Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
- Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
- You Hear Gurgling Water.
- You Have A Sewage Backup.
- How often should you empty your septic tank?
Do I need to add enzymes to my septic tank?
But septic tanks don’t really need help from extra additives. As long as you are only putting wastewater and toilet paper down the pipes, the tank can take care of its job on its own. Putting anything extra in can cause more harm than good and it’s best to stick to the tanks natural ecosystem when possible.
How do I clean my septic tank naturally?
You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!
How can I increase bacteria in my septic tank naturally?
Homemade Septic Tank Treatment The ingredients required for this natural solution are the following: Water, Sugar, Cornmeal, and Dry Yeast. To concoct this mixture, first start by boiling roughly a half gallon of water. Add in 2 cups of sugar. The sugar will act as the first food your bacteria will eat!
Does poop dissolve in septic tank?
Solid waste (a.k.a., poop) can build up, break down, fuse and create a mass that does some really bad things to your septic system. Here is what you can do, both prevention and repair-wise, with regards to solid waste becoming too solid in your septic tank.
How often should I pump my septic tank?
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.
Is Ridex good for your septic system?
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.
Septic Tank Maintenance – How to Break Down Organic Solids
Inspections of Septic Tanks Installation of a septic tank Septic Tank Upkeep Pumping Septic Tanks Cleaning of Drain Fields Drain Field Upkeep Drainage Field Reconstruction Inspection of the Drainage System
- A system of pipes transports wastewater created by the bathroom and human waste generated by the toilet to the septic tank. In the tank, millions of microorganisms that naturally occur in the environment break down organic waste
- Sludge is formed at the bottom of the tank when solids settle to the bottom of the tank, and liquids, such as fats, oils and grease, float to the top of the tank. It is the effluent, which is the treated liquid that runs out of the tank and into the drain field.
Pipes transport wastewater from the bathroom and human waste from the toilet to the septic tank. The organic waste is broken down by the millions of microorganisms that exist naturally in the tank. Sludge is formed at the bottom of the tank when solids settle to the bottom of the tank, and liquids, such as fats, oils and grease, float to the top of the tank; In the drain field, the treated liquid known as effluent is released from the tank.
How Septic Tanks Work
An aseptic tank is a type of wastewater treatment tank that is submerged in water and used to treat wastewater through the processes of biological breakdown and drainage. Septic tanks provide a safe method of disposing of wastewater and are thus extensively used in regions with a poor drainage system or that are not connected to the main sewage system. Excreta and wastewater are collected in a large underground tank, and they are mostly utilized in rural regions to keep the environment clean.
Basics of home septic system:
The design of a septic system is straightforward. It is a waterproof container (usually rectangular or spherical) that is buried underground and composed of fiberglass, plastic, or concrete. Two pipelines link the tank to the rest of the system (for inlet and outlet). After the water waste has been collected in the septic tank for a period of time, the solid and liquid waste are separated from one another by the outlet pipe. The outflow pipe, also known as the drain field, is responsible for transporting pretreated wastewater from the septic tank and dispersing it uniformly over the land and watercourses.
The top layer is comprised of oils and grease, and it floats above the rest of the waste.
The wastewater, as well as trash particles, are contained within the intermediate layer.
Bacteria from the wastewater break down the solid waste that accumulates within the tank.
Cleaning of the Septic tank: A requirement every few years
Design of a septic system is straightforward. Fiberglass, plastic, or concrete are used to construct an underground waterproof container (which is often rectangular or spherical). Two pipes run from the tank to the rest of the system (for inlet and outlet). It takes a long time for the water waste to be separated from the solid waste in the septic tank once it is collected in the inflow line. This pipe, also known as the drain field, transports preprocessed wastewater from the septic tank and disperses it uniformly over the soil and watercourses of the surrounding environment.
There are oils and grease on the surface of the trash that floats above everything else.
Wastewater and waste particles are contained in the intermediate layer.
Bacteria from the wastewater break down the solid waste that accumulates in the tank’s interior. By decomposing solid waste quickly, these bacteria enable the liquids to separate and drain away more easily from the solid waste stream.
Cannot remember when you last cleaned the tank: Here’s what happens
Decomposition in the tank slows slower, resulting in obstruction and overflow of the tank’s contents. Over time, soil, sludge, faeces, and solid waste accumulate, and as a consequence, a buildup of solid waste begins to take place. This process continues to worsen until the septic system ultimately loses out and backs up fully on itself. It might be difficult to determine when a septic system is malfunctioning. A lifespan might be as little as two years or as long as one hundred years! If you don’t want to wait until your septic system fails, you should clean out the tank at least once every 1–3 years rather than waiting until it fails completely.
Applying a powerful monthly septic tank cleaning upstream of the drainage zone is beneficial because it eliminates the negative effects of soaps and cleaners that kill the microorganisms in the tank.
Morse Engineering and Construction can provide you with further information.
Septic Tank Bacteria: What You Need to Know
The breakdown process in the tank slows down, resulting in a blockage and overflow of the tank. With the passage of time, soil, sludge, feces, and solid waste accumulate, and the solid waste begins to accumulate. The problem becomes worse and worse, until eventually the septic system fails altogether and backs up into the house. When a septic system is in danger, it might be difficult to determine. Depending on the situation, it might last anywhere from two to a hundred years! Rather of waiting for the septic system to fail, it is preferable to take action before it does.
A good method of accomplishing this is to purify the water before it is allowed to leave the reservoir.
It is critical that bacteria remain in the tank during the degradation of solid waste.
Why Is Septic Tank Bacteria Important?
Slowing down of the breakdown process in the tank causes obstruction and overflow. Over time, soil, sludge, faeces, and solid waste accumulate, and as a result, a buildup of solid waste occurs. The situation worsens until the septic system ultimately gives out and backs up entirely. It might be difficult to identify whether a septic system is malfunctioning. It might last as little as two years or as long as one hundred years! In order to avoid having to deal with a failing septic system when it is already too late, it is recommended that the tank be cleaned every 1–3 years.
Applying a powerful monthly septic tank cleaning upstream of the drainage zone eliminates the negative effects of soaps and cleaners that kill the microorganisms in the tank.
It is critical for the breakdown of solid waste that bacteria remain in the tank. ContactMorse Engineering and Construction for additional details.
What Can You Do to Promote Septic Tank Bacteria Growth?
Septic tanks inherently contain bacteria that will develop and multiply. By draining more solid waste down into the tank on a consistent basis, you encourage the growth of bacteria. However, there are several things you can do to your septic tank that will help to slow the spread of germs. All of the items meant to kill bacteria such as antibacterial soaps, bleach, antibiotics, and other products designed to kill bacteria have the potential to enter your tank and harm some of the beneficial bacteria in your tank.
It is possible that you may need to alter the way your family operates in order to prevent flushing these items down the toilet.
Before washing soiled garments, soak them in vinegar for a few minutes, and mix baking soda into your laundry detergent before putting it in the machine.
If you require a secure location to dispose of your medication, consult with your doctor to determine where you may properly dispose of your medication waste.
Do You Need to Put Bacteria In Your Septic Tank?
Some firms manufacture bacteria that may be added to your septic tank in order to support good functioning of the system. However, if you follow the instructions to the letter, microbial additives should not be required. Assuming you keep the amount of bacteria-killing agents and chemicals in your drains to a minimum, your tank should have enough bacteria to perform its functions. Whether or not you decide to employ septic tank bacteria, you should check with your local sanitation authorities to see if any chemicals or other materials are prohibited from being flushed down the toilet.
If you’re not sure which septic tank bacteria firms are the best, ask the specialist who pumps your septic tank for a suggestion.
Al’s Septic Tank Service is delighted to speak with you about septic tank bacteria and other septic tank-related issues.
To learn more, please contact us immediately.
Wastewater Treatment & Your Septic System – Tips to Improve Efficiency
Regardless of whether you live in an urban or rural setting, we all rely on a wastewater treatment system to handle our household wastewater before it is released back into the environment. If you reside in an urban location, your home’s sewage system is most usually connected to the wastewater treatment system of the city or municipality where you live.
In the case of those who live on acreage or in a rural setting and do not have access to a community wastewater treatment system, an onsite wastewater treatment system will most likely be used.
Wastewater
Wastewater is water that has been utilized by the following sources:
- Any sewer inflow or sewer infiltration resulting from domestic, commercial, industrial, or agricultural activity
- Surface runoff (rainwater pouring through fissures in the ground and into gutters) or stormwater (water from floods)
- Or any combination of the foregoing.
It is generally accepted that wastewater is any water that has been polluted by human activity.
Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems
On-site, or decentralized, wastewater treatment systems are commonly referred to as septic systems, owing to the fact that the majority of them employ a septic tank to treat the wastewater only partially.
Septic SystemLeach Field
Localized wastewater treatment systems, also known as septic systems, are often used on-site or decentralized wastewater treatment systems since they all employ a septic tank to treat a portion of the waste.
Earth Smart Solutions offers a natural Septic Tank Additive (ESTT) to aid with processing domestic wastewater via septic systems to help decrease water pollution.
Our Natural Septic Tank Additive (ESTT) is developed to promote microbial populations in your septic system and drain field while also speeding up the natural (biological) process. It lowers the need for regular septic tank pumping, increases the life of drain fields, enhances drainage field percolation, prevents sewage line obstruction, and ensures that septic systems operate at peak performance. ESTT will safeguard your septic system and ensure that it continues to function properly. ESST is a 100% natural treatment that is simple to administer.
Septic Systems – Holding Tanks
Using holding tanks is necessary when a residence or business is not capable of connecting to a communal sewer system or installing a leaching field owing to poor soil conditions, a lack of available space, or other restricting factors such as a lack of available space. Furthermore, they are in helpful while working out of mobile office trailers and temporary housing. The holding tank is responsible for collecting and temporarily storing sewage generated by a residence or building until it is transferred to a disposal facility for treatment.
Earth Smart Solutions offers a Holding Tank and Field Conditioner (ESHT) to aid withaccelerating the natural decomposition of the biodegradable component in organic waste in septic tanks, holding tanks and more.
A proprietary blend of essential nutrients and synergists, our Holding Tank and Field Conditioner (ESHT) is designed to eliminate odors and accelerate the natural decomposition of biodegradable constituents found in organic waste in holding tanks, such as those used for marine and RV holding tanks, portable toilets, and other similar applications. ESHT increases the amount of biomass in the treatment environment, which speeds up the natural microbiological process in the environment. This approach ensures that well-functioning systems retain their functionality while also causing mediocre systems to become functionally functional.
A regular application of ESHT holding tank treatment will keep your tank and drain field in excellent operating order, preventing or delaying costly pump outs. ESHT is a 100% natural product that is simple to use. Simple as dropping a premeasured pack into your toilet bowl and flushing it away.
Tips on How You Can Help Reduce Contaminants in Wastewater and Protect Wastewater Systems:
Tips courtesy of the City of Calgary and the Calgary Police Department The Alberta Water Portal Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to water resources in Alberta. Following are some activities that individuals and companies may do to assist minimize the amount of nutrients, pollutants, and debris in our wastewater collection and treatment systems, as well as safeguard the environment and their own house or business’ plumbing:
- Prevent the flushing of dental floss, bandages, wipes, and other hygiene goods down the toilet by taking them to a pharmacy for proper disposal. Instead, throw it away in the garbage. Food scraps, grease, oil, and fat (as well as fatty items such as butter and salad dressing) should not be flushed down the toilet. Place it in your Green Cart for composting, or if you don’t have a Green Cart, compost it instead.
Alternatively, you may reach out to us by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-866-444-7174 if you have any queries or would like additional information. Wastewater Treatment System, Alberta Water Portal Society, Wastewater Treatment Plant are some of the sources for this information.
The secrets on how to improve your septic system
Alternatively, you may contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-866-444-7174 if you have any queries or would like further information. Water Treatment System, Alberta Water Portal Society, Wastewater Treatment Plant are some of the sources for this information.
Septic Tank Everything that goes down any of the drains in the house
| Septic TankEverything that goes down any of the drains in the house (toilets, showers, sinks, laundry machines) travels first to the septic tank. The septic tank is a large-volume, watertight tank which provides initial treatment of the household wastewater by intercepting solids and settleable organic matterbefore disposal of the wastewater (effluent) to the drainfield.Function of the Septic TankHow Long Liquids Must Remain In TankSolids StorageAnaerobic DecompositionFlow Into And Out Of The TankEffluent FilterFlow BufferingMicrobes in Septic Tanks Digest, Dissolve, and Gasify Complex Organic Wastes.FUNCTION OF THE SEPTIC TANK While relatively simple in construction and operation, the septic tank provides a number of important functions through a complex interaction of physical and biological processes. The essential functions of the septic tank are to: receive all wastewater from the house separate solids from the wastewater flow cause reduction and decomposition of accumulated solids provide storage for the separated solids (sludge and scum) pass the clarified wastewater (effluent) out to the drain field for final treatment and disposal.Primary TreatmentAs stated, the main function of the septic tank is to remove solids from thewastewater and provide a clarified effluent for disposal to the drain field.The septic tank provides a relatively quiescent body of water where thewastewater is retained long enough to let the solids separate by bothsettling and flotation. This process is often called primary treatment andresults in three products: scum, sludge, and effluent.Scum: Substances lighter than water (oil, grease, fats) float to the top,where they form a scum layer. This scum layer floats on top of the watersurface in the tank. Aerobic bacteria work at digesting floating solids.Sludge: The “sinkable” solids (soil, grit, bones, unconsumed food particles)settle to the bottom of the tank and form a sludge layer. The sludge isdenser than water and fluid in nature, so it forms a flat layer along thetank bottom. Underwater anaerobic bacteria consume organic materials in thesludge, giving off gases in the process and then, as they die off, becomepart of the sludge.Effluent: Effluent is the clarified wastewater left over after the scum hasfloated to the top and the sludge has settled to the bottom. It is theclarified liquid between scum and sludge. It flows through the septic tankoutlet into the drain field.Back to listingsHOW LONG LIQUIDS MUST REMAIN IN TANK Effective volume: The floating scum layer on top and the sludge layer on thebottom take up a certain amount of the total volume in the tank. Theeffective volume is the liquid volume in the clear space between the scumand sludge layers. This is where the active solids separation occurs as thewastewater sits in the tank.Retention time: In order for adequate separation of solids to occur, thewastewater needs to sit long enough in the quiescent conditions of the tank.The time the water spends in the tank, on its way from inlet to outlet, isknown as the retention time. The retention time is a function of theeffective volume and the daily household wastewater flow rate:Retention Time (days) = Effective Volume (gallons)/Flow Rate (gallons per day)A common design rule is for a tank to provide a minimum retention time ofat least 24 hours, during which one-half to two-thirds of the tank volume istaken up by sludge and scum storage. Note that this is a minimum retentiontime, under conditions with a lot of accumulated solids in the tank. Underordinary conditions (i.e., with routine maintenance pumping) a tank shouldbe able to provide two to three days of retention time.As sludge and scum accumulate and take up more volume in the tank, theeffective volume is gradually reduced, which results in a reduced retentiontime. If this process continues unchecked-if the accumulated solids are notcleaned out (pumped) often enough-wastewater will not spend enough time inthe tank for adequate separation of solids, and solids may flow out of thetank with the effluent into the drain field. This can result in clogged pipesand gravel in the drain field, one of the most common causes of septic systemfailure.Back to listingsSOLIDS STORAGE In order to avoid frequent removal of accumulated solids, the septic tank is(hopefully) designed with ample volume so that sludge and scum can be storedin the tank for an extended period of time. A general design rule is thatone-half to two-thirds of the tank volume is reserved for sludge and scumaccumulation. A properly designed and used septic system should have thecapacity to store solids for about five years or more. However, the rate ofsolids accumulation varies greatly from one household to another, and actualstorage time can only be determined by routine septic tank inspections.Back to listingsANAEROBIC DECOMPOSITION While fresh solids are continually added to the scum and sludge layers,anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that live without oxygen) consume the organicmaterial in the solids. The by-products of this decomposition are solublecompounds, which are carried away in the liquid effluent, and various gases,which are vented out of the tank via the inlet pipe that ties into the houseplumbing air vent system.Anaerobic decomposition results in a slow reduction of the volume ofaccumulated solids in the septic tank. This occurs primarily in the sludgelayer but also, to a lesser degree, in the scum layer. The volume of thesludge layer is also reduced by compaction of the older, underlyingsludge. While a certain amount of volume reduction occurs over time, sludgeand scum layers gradually build up in the tank and eventually must be pumpedout.Back to listingsFLOW INTO AND OUT OF THE TANK The inlet and outlet ports of the tank are generally equipped with devicessuch as baffles, concrete tees, or in more recent years, sanitary tees(T-shaped pipes with one short and one long leg).InletsThe inlet device dissipates the energy of the incoming flow and deflects itdownwards. The vertical leg of the tee extends below the liquid surface wellinto the clear space below the scum layer. This prevents disturbance of thefloating scum layer and reduces disruptive turbulence caused by incomingflows. The inlet device also is supposed to prevent short-circuiting offlows across the water surface directly to the outlet.The upper leg of the inlet should extend well above the liquid surface inorder to prevent floating scum from backing up into, and possibly plugging,the main inlet pipe. The open top of the inlet tee allows venting of gasesout of the tank through the inlet pipe and fresh air vents of the householdplumbing.OutletsThe outlet device is designed to retain the scum layer within the tank. Asanitary tee can be used with the lower leg extending below the scum layer.The elevation of the outlet port should be 2 to 3 inches below the elevationof the inlet port. This prevents backwater and stranding of solids in themain inlet pipe during momentary rises in the tank liquid level caused bysurges of incoming wastewater.Typical inlet/outlet teesGas Deflection BaffleGases are produced by the natural digestion of sludge at the bottom of thetank, and particles of sludge can be carried upward by these rising gases.Some tanks have a gas deflection baffle, which prevents gas bubbles (towhich solid particles often adhere) from leaving the tank by deflecting themaway from the outlet and preventing them from entering the drain field.Back to listingsTHE EFFLUENT FILTER In newer systems, there is often an effluent filter: one of the significantimprovements in septic tank design in decades. They range from 4 to 18inches in diameter. As we have described, the most serious problem withseptic systems is the migration of solids, grease, or oil into thedrain field, and the filter is effective in preventing this.A filter restricts and limits passage of suspended solids into the effluent.Solids in a filtered system’s effluent discharge are significantly less thanthose produced in a non-screened system.Back to listingsFLOW BUFFERING The septic tank also provides a buffering of flows between the house and thedrain field. Large surges from the household, such as toilet flushing orwashing machine drainage, are dampened by the septic tank so that the flowsleaving the tank and entering the drain field are at substantially lower flowrates and extend over a longer period of time than the incoming surges.Back to listingsMICROBES IN SEPTIC TANKS DIGEST, DISSOLVE, AND GASIFY COMPLEX ORGANIC WASTES In 1907, W. P. Dunbar conducted tests on the decomposition of vegetable andanimal matter in septic tanks. He stated, “The author has investigated thesubject by suspending in septic tanks a large number of solid organicsubstances, such as cooked vegetables, cabbages, turnips, potatoes, peas,beans, bread, various forms of cellulose, flesh in the form of dead bodiesof animals, skinned and unskinned, various kinds of fat, bones, cartilage,etc., and has shown that many of these substances are almost completelydissolved in from three to four weeks. They first presented a swollenappearance, and increased in weight. The turnips had holes on the surface,which gradually became deeper. The edges of the cabbage leaves looked asthough they had been bitten, and similar signs of decomposition were visiblein the case of other substances. Of the skinned animals, the skeleton aloneremained after a short time; with the unskinned animals the process lastedrather longer. At this stage I will only point out that the experiments wereso arranged that no portion of the substances could be washed away; theirdisappearance was therefore due to solution and gasification.”Back to listings |
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Small amounts of the particles kept in the tank degrade, but the vast majority of the solids stay and build up in the tank.
- Under no circumstances should you enter a septic tank.
- With continued usage of the on-lot wastewater disposal system, an accumulation of sludge and scum builds up in the septic tank.
- 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.
Another factor that influences how soon a septic tank will fill with solids is one’s way of living. In terms of septic tank function, the two most essential aspects of one’s lifestyle are as follows: 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. Empty nesters, and especially the elderly, on the other hand, have a tendency to consume significantly less water and to deposit significantly less solid waste in septic tanks.
- The particles in a septic tank tend to be taken away from the tank to the soil absorption region, as previously indicated.
- As additional materials collect in the absorption region, these sediments begin to choke the soil, preventing wastewater from being able to fully absorb.
- In most cases, the removal of these biomats is both expensive and time-consuming.
- Pumping the wastewater that has accumulated in the soil absorption area is required for the removal of the biomat.
- The biomat normally decomposes within a few days after the absorption area has been completely dewatered and has been aerated.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
The role of enzymes and bacteria in a septic tank
Wastewater from residences is disposed of into a septic tank for treatment in areas where municipal sewer lines are not readily available or are inaccessible. The presence of microorganisms, particularly bacteria, in the septic tank helps to break down and liquefy organic waste. The treatment of wastewater in most septic systems is divided into two primary steps. When wastewater is fed into the septic system, the solids fall to the bottom of the system, where they combine with the anaerobic bacteria to produce the sludge and scum layers.
After passing through the second phase, the effluent is discharged into the drainfield region, where it is further treated by physical and biological processes as it percolates through the soil.
What are enzymes?
Bacterial enzymes are a class of proteins that are released into the environment. Enzymes are quite selective in terms of the types of organic materials that they degrade. Enzymes, in contrast to bacteria, are not living organisms. They are incapable of growing or reproducing. Enzymes are often produced by bacteria and serve as catalysts for anaerobic digestion, which occurs in the absence of oxygen. Enzymes may be thought of as blades that cut through complicated molecules and break them down into smaller fragments that are more digestible for bacteria to consume.
Types of enzymes found in septic systems
Following are some of the most essential enzymes in sewage treatment systems. Protease is a digestive enzyme that breaks down protein-based waste such as blood and feces. Lipase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down fats, greases, and oils. Amylase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates such as porridge, rice, pasta, and so on. Cellulase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down cellulose, such as that found in paper-based goods. Urease is a digestive enzyme that breaks down urea.
The majority of these enzymes are generated by bacteria in their natural environment.
Organic matter and enzymes such as amylase, protease, cellulases, and lipases are introduced into the septic tank by Bio-maintenance Sol’s products in order to break down the organic waste and aid in the digestion process in the tank.
What are bacteria?
When it comes to bacteria, they are the most prevalent and significant germs in a septic system. Fungi, protozoa, rotifers, and nematodes are some of the other microorganisms that exist. Despite the fact that bacteria are microbes, which means that they are exceedingly little, they are still living entities, and as such, they require some type of nutrition to survive. They get their nutrition from organic stuff. Approximately 1/25,000 of an inch in length is the length of a bacterium. They may grow in large numbers in a little amount of area due to their minuscule sizes.
- Bacteria that require oxygen are referred to as aerobic bacteria, whilst bacteria that do not require oxygen are referred to as anaerobic bacteria.
- This explains why several common home goods are not very beneficial to the septic tank’s performance.
- When the conditions are good, bacteria can multiply every 15-20 minutes if the right conditions are there.
- This frequently results in the reduction of the bacteria population, which is a phenomena that has been linked to the failure of numerous septic systems in the past.
Fortunately, you can simply renew the bacteria in your septic tank by adding billions of bacteria every month to it using Bio-keepup Sol’s solution, which you can get online.
Types of bacteria found in the septic tank
Septic system bacteria are the most prevalent and significant microorganisms in the system. Molds, protozoa, rotifers and nematodes are examples of other microorganisms. Despite the fact that bacteria are microbes, which means that they are exceedingly little, they are nevertheless living entities that require some type of nourishment. The organic substance that they consume is their food source. Approximately 1/55,000 of an inch is the length of a bacterium. They may grow in large numbers in a limited area because to their minuscule diameters.
- Anaerobic bacteria do not require oxygen, whereas aerobic bacteria do.
- Bacteria are pH sensitive, and they require pH values to be maintained between 6 and 7.5 in order to survive.
- The ability of bacteria to multiply every 15-20 minutes is enhanced when the conditions are suitable.
- Often, this results in a reduction in the number of bacteria present in the system, a condition that is responsible for the failure of a large proportion of septic systems.
Anaerobic bacteria
As the name implies, anaerobic bacteria flourish in conditions with little or no oxygen, which is why they can be found in typical septic systems. They generate energy by using chemicals like as nitrates and sulfates, which helps to slow their metabolic rate down. Despite the fact that they are smaller than aerobic bacteria, they are highly selective, and because of their lower metabolism, it is more difficult for them to create enzymes. These animals have exceptional resistance to environmental stress and can thus live even when their environment changes dramatically.
The advantage of adopting anaerobic bacteria is that you will not be required to have any electromechanical equipment in your system.
Facultative bacteria
Facultative bacteria are capable of flourishing in both the presence and absence of air. When there is enough oxygen available, they can survive by aerobic respiration. When there is no oxygen available, these bacteria convert to fermentation.
As a result, facultative bacteria may be described as having the potential to change into either aerobic or anaerobic conditions depending on the conditions in the environment they are exposed to. In most cases, this transition takes a few of hours to complete.
Aerobic bacteria
Bacteria such as this require the presence of oxygen in order to thrive. Aerobic bacteria are extremely effective at feeding on organic waste, and as a result, they may be employed to break down trash in high-tech waste-treatment systems. Aerobic bacteria, on the other hand, are extremely sensitive to changes in their surrounding environment. Aspects of their size are likewise greater than those of anaerobic bacteria in most cases. Aerobes have a substantially greater metabolic rate than anaerobes, and this difference is considerable.
Bacteria spores
Bacteria endospores are a dormant structure that is created by stressed bacteria cells and is used as a protective barrier. They create a protective shell around the cell, which shields it from the impacts of the environment. Endospores can, as a result, endure circumstances that would readily kill any other bacteria, such as high temperatures. These materials can survive extreme pressure, ultraviolet radiation, chemical degradation and other conditions. However, despite the fact that this makes it easier for them to live in the septic tank, they are not particularly effective when it comes to the digestion of organic waste.
- A pathogen is a microbe that is responsible for the transmission of illness.
- The bacteria in the septic tank are responsible for the breakdown of organic waste in the septic system.
- An inadequately functioning system may not be able to effectively remove harmful microorganisms, resulting in groundwater pollution.
- Diseases transmitted by drinking water are caused by harmful bacteria, which are found in abundance.
- Shock therapy should be used promptly if you have a clogged drain field in order to restore it to its normal operating state.
The sludge layer
Heavy materials in wastewater from your home sink to the bottom of your tank, forming a layer known as sludge. When wastewater from your home enters your septic system, it forms a layer known as the sludge layer. Anaerobic bacteria aid in the partial breakdown of the sludge by oxidizing the organic matter.
Sludge layers are often composed of mixed biodegradable and nonbiodegradable substances, making it impossible for the bacteria to completely decompose the layer. As a result, septic tanks must be drained on a regular basis, according to the requirements of your provincial legislation.
Applying probiotics to septic systems
At some point, every septic system will fail. Not if, but when will this happen is the real question. The harmful compounds utilized in houses, which ultimately make their way into septic tanks, might be held responsible for this impending breakdown of the system. Despite the fact that there are billions of naturally existing bacteria in the septic tank, these bacteria require a pH level of about 7. The harmful compounds that come from residences interact with the pH levels of the septic tank, resulting in the death of a large number of bacteria in the tank.
It has been suggested that using probiotics to septic systems may be one method of addressing this issue.
Conclusion
Even though there are thousands of different septic tank additives available on the market today, they are not all created equal. Some of them, in fact, will cause more harm than benefit to the septic tank’s environment. Some investigations have revealed that chemical additions can really cause the collapse of a septic system as well as the pollution of groundwater. For this reason, only biological additions such as those provided by Bio-Sol should be used in your recipes. They are created from bacteria and enzymes that have been meticulously chosen, and they inject billions of bacteria into the sewage treatment system as a result of their use.
It is a good idea to add biological additives to your septic tank on a regular basis to ensure that it is operating as effectively as possible.
