Septic Tank | Private Sewer Systems

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The septic tank is the central part of the septic system. Septic tanks vary in size and composition, but they can usually hold about 1,000 gallons of both liquids and solids and are made of concrete or steel. In North America, approximately 25% of the population relies on septic tanks; this can include the suburbs and small towns, as well as rural areas.

What is a septic tank?
A septic tank is an “underground sedimentation” tank in which sewage is retained for a short period while it is decomposed and purified by bacterial action. The biological matter in the sewage settles to the bottom of the tank, where a film forms that eliminates oxygen, and anaerobic bacteria attack the solid matter, causing it to liquefy, disintegrate, and give off gases. The septic gases are then discharged from a vent, and the liquids overflow through an outlet into a disposal field, where they can drain into the soil. It is here where aerobic bacteria begin to purify the wastewater.

Do septic tanks require pumping and/or maintenance?
Because of gravity, a septic tank typically will not require a pump to operate. However, it is necessary to perform regular preventative maintenance such as pumping out the solid material to prevent a backup. Bio-Clean, a powder-based biochemical can also be used to clean the tank. Rainforest Plumbing is an authorized seller of Bio-Clean.

Here are some other helpful tips that may help you keep your home’s septic tank in working order for longer:

• Refrain from dumping cooking oils and grease into lines that feed into the septic tank. Oils and grease are difficult to degrade, and may cause problems with odor and the emptying process.
• Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items such as cigarette butts, cotton balls, or other sanitary items. They will rapidly fill and clog the septic tank.
• Try not to use your garbage disposal to dispose of large quantities of waste food. This can rapidly overtake the rate of breakdown within your septic system and cause a malfunction.
• Do not flush overly caustic chemicals, or products with high concentrations of bleach or lye. They may damage the inner working of a septic tank.