A home's septic system is typically built to include four major components: the pipe, septic tank, drainfeild, and the soil. Though there are other designs and systems out there. From the home, the pipe carries wastewater to the septic tank. The septic tank is an underground tank that is usually built from concrete, fiberglass, or a similar material. Septic tanks do not "treat" wastewater, but help to separate the solids and liquids pumped from the home. After separation, solids and sludge sink to the bottom, while water is allowed to flow to the next part of the filtering process: the drainfeild. The drainfeild an expansion of channels and pipes that the water is pushed through in the next cycle of the cleaning process. From there, water percolates into the soil.
The solid-liquid separation is usually accomplished in what is called a treatment tank. The treatment tank is a relatively large structure typically made of concrete. The approximate size for a residence is 1000 to 1500 gallons. The solid material and liquid material enter the treatment tank by means of the drain pipe from the house. In addition to separating the liquid material from the solid material, the treatment tank also provides partial treatment of the septic waste through biological action within the tank. The solid-liquid separation is accomplished by the use of baffles within the tank. The inlet pipe is usually located at one end of the treatment tank and the outlet pipe at the other end. The normal liquid level in the treatment tank is at the level of the outlet pipe. The solid material that is heavier than water sinks to the bottom of the tank where biological breakdown occurs. Any solid matter that floats is prevented from going out the outlet pipe by means of an outlet baffle which extends just below the surface of the water.
There are many different types of septic systems ranging from what are called conventional in-ground systems to sand mounds and from spray irrigation systems to stream discharge systems. There are also seepage pits, cesspools, and homemade systems. This booklet is not intended to cover every situation, but is intended to give the homeowner an understanding of the concept of how a septic system works and a better understanding of a septic inspection.
Some of the common signs your home's septic system might be malfunctioning? A clogged or overflowing septic tank might result in soggy, wet soil near the site. Also keep an eye out for pooling "gray water" that might be visible in the yard or grass above or around the tank area or leach field. Homeowners often report a strong waste odor outside. You might also find clues inside, such as clogging or backed up drains, which might be the result of a clogged sewage line, a full septic tank, or similar issue.
Properly maintaining your home's plumbing and septic system is an important step in caring for your property. Just like inspecting your home, taking a close look at the plumbing and septic system should become a routine step in home maintenance. It is suggested that a professional evaluate your septic system at least every 3 years. In addition, septic tanks should be pumped and cleaned every 3-5 years, or more frequently if heavy use dictates.
When the soil conditions are right, an area of active microorganisms is formed where the waste enters the soil. As the waste slowly percolates through the soil the microorganisms continue to grow and feed on the harmful bacteria and viruses in the septic waste. The underlying soil continues to absorb and filter the waste. Four feet of soil is all that is needed to treat the septic waste in good soil conditions.
The solid-liquid separation is usually accomplished in what is called a treatment tank. The treatment tank is a relatively large structure typically made of concrete. The approximate size for a residence is 1000 to 1500 gallons. The solid material and liquid material enter the treatment tank by means of the drain pipe from the house. In addition to separating the liquid material from the solid material, the treatment tank also provides partial treatment of the septic waste through biological action within the tank. The solid-liquid separation is accomplished by the use of baffles within the tank. The inlet pipe is usually located at one end of the treatment tank and the outlet pipe at the other end. The normal liquid level in the treatment tank is at the level of the outlet pipe. The solid material that is heavier than water sinks to the bottom of the tank where biological breakdown occurs. Any solid matter that floats is prevented from going out the outlet pipe by means of an outlet baffle which extends just below the surface of the water.
There are many different types of septic systems ranging from what are called conventional in-ground systems to sand mounds and from spray irrigation systems to stream discharge systems. There are also seepage pits, cesspools, and homemade systems. This booklet is not intended to cover every situation, but is intended to give the homeowner an understanding of the concept of how a septic system works and a better understanding of a septic inspection.
Some of the common signs your home's septic system might be malfunctioning? A clogged or overflowing septic tank might result in soggy, wet soil near the site. Also keep an eye out for pooling "gray water" that might be visible in the yard or grass above or around the tank area or leach field. Homeowners often report a strong waste odor outside. You might also find clues inside, such as clogging or backed up drains, which might be the result of a clogged sewage line, a full septic tank, or similar issue.
Properly maintaining your home's plumbing and septic system is an important step in caring for your property. Just like inspecting your home, taking a close look at the plumbing and septic system should become a routine step in home maintenance. It is suggested that a professional evaluate your septic system at least every 3 years. In addition, septic tanks should be pumped and cleaned every 3-5 years, or more frequently if heavy use dictates.
When the soil conditions are right, an area of active microorganisms is formed where the waste enters the soil. As the waste slowly percolates through the soil the microorganisms continue to grow and feed on the harmful bacteria and viruses in the septic waste. The underlying soil continues to absorb and filter the waste. Four feet of soil is all that is needed to treat the septic waste in good soil conditions.
About the Author:
Looking to find the best Home Inspector for Barrie ON, then visit www.barrie-home-inspector.com. Use the best Professional Angus Home Inspector for your next DND Relocation move or posting.
No comments:
Post a Comment