Septic tanks explained

The septic tank is basically an underground storage reservoir constructed of concrete and brick or durable polyurethane. The function of the septic tank is to covert human, household and laundry wastes into an acceptable liquid waste end product which is basically environmentally friendly. Most septic tanks overflow this then partially treated liquid into a soak away or more commonly known as a French drain.

If a septic tank system is properly constructed, maintained and serviced it should give years of trouble free operation. However if not maintained can rapidly pollute underground water and cause a serious health risk to humans, livestock and pets and the environment. To sum up in a nutshell the system operates form untreated waste water and sewerage entering the septic tank. This waste separated into three basic form s whereby the sludge (solids) sinks to the bottom of the tank, the liquid occupies the majority of the volume with a scum layer floating on the top. All three these compositions help and contribute to the anaerobic decomposition to form bacteria, thus reducing solids and scum into a broken down by product which overflows to the French drain and sub soil, depending upon what goes into the tank (detergents, soaps, acids, fats etc.). There always inevitably remains a buildup of solids and scum. If this build up is allowed to continue and gets out of control it is almost like a virus which then infects and multiplies to make the whole system inoperative including the French drain.

It is therefore imperative that even if the system does operate effectively you be advised to have the septic tank pumped out at least every 24 months (depending on type of waste)to get rid of these unwanted substances so that there is more room in the tank for natural formation of break down bacteria. Do not wait, it is often too late then and possible permanent damage could have set in which would amount to a costly exercise. Have the septic tank pumped! Compare this to a new motor car being driven for 10 years without changing the oil to keep this engine in a good operating condition a regular oil change will definitely prolong the operating life. So too the septic system operates and is kept alive and functioning by getting rid of all the old ‘oil’ (sludge and scum) thus rejuvenating the system.