If you recently moved into a home with a septic system, you will want to familiarize yourself with this household plumbing option. Comprised of tanks and drain fields, they require routine pumping among other maintenance to prevent malfunction. Overloaded tanks can back up and flood the surrounding area with waste. Miller’s Ready Mix Concrete & Block, a concrete supplier providing residents and business owners throughout Mayfield and upstate New York with ready-mix delivery and septic supplies for over 40 years, explains how the units work.

The Septic Tank

Household water and waste drains into the septic tank, which separates liquids from solids. Solids sink to the bottom of the tank and become sludge, which is partially decomposed by tank bacteria. However, a good amount of this waste remains in the tank. Floatable matter, including oil and grease, rise to the top and form a scum layer. Wastewater flows in through an inlet pipe that slows the drainage process to avoid disturbing the solids, and then it continues out and into the absorption field via perforated pipes. The tank’s outlet pipe prevents scum and solid waste from spilling out.

The Absorption Field

The absorption, drain, or leach field absorbs and filters wastewater before it reaches groundwater. This prevents contamination because the soil percolates to remove viruses and coliform bacteria, a type found mainly in mammal intestines. If found in water sources, it indicates human waste contamination.

The absorption field cannot do its job if the septic tank is not pumped on a regular basis. The tank overloads, often resulting in solid waste contamination in the drain field. When this occurs, the land becomes noticeably soggy and usually emits sewage odors. Your local concrete supplier will likely suggest pumping them every two to five years to maintain healthy household plumbing. However, the frequency will also depend on other factors, like the number of people living in your house and how much water you use daily. Too much liquid flowing in can cause leaks and related problems.

If you’re experiencing issues with your system and would like to speak with a professional, turn to the concrete suppliers at Miller’s Ready Mix Concrete & Block. The seasoned company specializes in septic leach field products and will ensure your unit is in top shape. Call (518) 661-5601 to schedule an appointment today, or visit the website for a complete service list. Follow the concrete supplier on Twitter for more helpful information.