If you own a septic tank system, it’s important that you understand how it works so you can spot problems before they become costly repairs. Your septic tank system has four main components. Let’s take a closer look at all of them.

Pipe Leading from Your Home to the Tank

The pipe leading from the bathrooms in your house to your septic tank is the first key component to your septic system. This pipe carries all waste materials from your toilets to your septic tank. Any leaks or damage to this pipe can prevent your system from working properly and cause dangerous and inconvenient backups.

Septic Tank

Your septic tank is the main component to the septic system. Your septic tank holds all waste materials from your home and keeps them from leaking into the ground surrounding your home. Septic tanks are usually made of concrete and are buried underground. Compartments in the tank prevent certain forms of waste from reaching the drain field. Bacteria located in the tank breaks down some of the solid waste.

Drain Field

The drain field or leach field is an area where the partially treated waste slowly drains to make room for more wastewater. The wastewater is then treated further by the soil of the drain field. Too much wastewater caused by an overflowing septic tank will cause the drain field to flood, which can be extremely costly and inconvenient to repair.

The Soil Surrounding the Tank

The soil in your lawn surrounding your septic tank plays an important role in your septic system. When the wastewater from your tank flows to your drain field, the soil removes harmful bacteria and viruses, making it safe for the environment. Proper soil is necessary for a septic system to work efficiently.

For any questions about the key components of your septic tank system, call the professionals at Affordable Pumping Services.