Do you know what a septic tank is and how it works? If not, you're not alone. Many people don't have a clue about septic tanks, even though they play a crucial role in our everyday lives. Septic tanks are an essential part of the wastewater treatment process, and if you're curious about how they work, keep reading! We'll break everything down and explain why septic tanks are essential.
A septic tank is a watertight chamber made of concrete, fibreglass, or polyethylene in which sewage from a home or business collects. The tank allows solids to settle out of the sewage while the liquids are discharged into a drainage field. Septic tanks are usually installed where there is no connection to a municipal sewer system. When appropriately maintained, septic tanks can last for many years.
A septic tank is designed to help filter and treat wastewater, allowing it to be safely released back into the environment. The basic functioning of a septic tank relies on a series of processes, including settling, filtration, and bacteria activity. During settlement, solids in the wastewater sink to the bottom of the tank, forming a sludge layer that traps grit and other floating objects.
Meanwhile, water percolates through layers of gravel or rocks at the top of the tank. This helps to remove excess nutrients from the wastewater, preventing overgrowth by harmful microorganisms. Finally, bacteria do their work in breaking down remaining wastes in the water, reducing odors, and helping to cleanse it for release back into nature. Thus, through a combination of physical processes and microbial activity, a septic tank works by treating wastewater before returning to the natural world.
Septic tanks are a necessary part of many homes, yet they remain mysterious to many homeowners. This blog aimed to clear up some of the mysteries around septic tanks by discussing what they are and how they work. By understanding their function, homeowners can be more proactive in caring for their tanks and avoiding costly repairs down the road.