Septic Tanks

Share  | 

• Conventional systems that use gravity to distribute the effluent
• Low pressure distribution system
• Mound systems

Grease and light particles that comes out with wastewater forms a layer of scum on top of the wastewater. They are prevented from escaping by the use of Baffles which are installed at the inlet and outlet of the tank.

It is not possible for the septic tanks to dispose all the materials which enters the system. The solid that is left behind and which is not decomposed need to be removed on a regular basis otherwise the system will fail.

It should be kept in mind that, the holding tank should be pumped out frequently because the solids can enter the pipes leading to and from the tank that can cause sewage to back up into the house or cause the drainage system to fail. These problems are not only costly but can pose a danger to public health. They can also cause pollution to both ground and the surface water through seepage.

Wastewater contains several undesirable pollutants. Pathogens such as viruses or bacteria can enter drinking water supplies creating a potential health hazard. Nutrients and organic matter entering waterways can lead to tremendous growth in the quantity of aquatic microorganisms. Metabolic activity of these microbes can reduce oxygen levels in the water causing aquatic life to suffocate.

Wastewater is distributed from the septic tanks to the distribution box through solid pipes. Here the wastewater is channelized into one or more perforated pipes set in trenches of gravel. It is here where water seep into the underlying soil. The wastes and the bacteria that are dissolved are trapped or adsorbed to soil particles or decomposed by microorganisms. The wastewater which is purified either moves to the ground water or evaporates from the soil. Trench systems are the most popular type of septic tank system that are used in new home construction.

Instead of drainfield some people prefer to install Seepage Pit (Dry Well). Dry Well has sidewall holes surrounded by gravel. The holes allow the liquid to seep. If in a area the condition is not fit to install conventional septic tank system then Sand Mound System is a good alternative.