SEPTIC SYSTEMS

SEPTIC SYSTEMS

WHY DO WE HAVE THEM?
Due to local regulations, especially in rural areas, houses are far apart and this makes public sewers prohibitively expensive.

HOW DO THEY WORK?
Wastewater and solids leave the house and enter the septic tank. There solids are held back for bacterial digestion and water is allowed to flow beyond to the drain field portion of the system.

The drain field which may be made of trenches, seepage pits or gallies allows waste water to re-enter the earth. A properly functioning system will dispose of wastewater without contaminating the groundwater.

HOW DO THEY FAIL?
Similar to most other home components, septic systems require routine maintenance. Certain repairs may be necessary from time to time to keep the septic system working properly. Septic systems eventually become clogged from age and use. Clogs prevent them from percolating wastewater back into the earth at a reasonable rate and wastewater surfacing in the yard usually results. The lifespan of a septic system depends a lot on how well it was installed and maintained, how much it is used and how good the soil and surrounding drainage are. Septic tanks on an average should be pumped and inspected every two to three years. In many cases the maintenance cost is less than a sewer tax.

WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW?

Have a Home Inspector do an aboveground septic system screening test as part of his home inspection. He should, through observation and running a specific reasonable amount of water, determine if the system is functioning at the time of the inspection. he should also try to assess the risk of having a marginal system.
You should follow up the Home Inspector's observations by contacting both the septic service company and homeowner to find out if they are aware of any problems with the system. Try to get the maintenance history.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I OWN A SEPTIC SYSTEM?
Live normally but within certain prudent guidelines.

Have the septic tank pumped out about every two to three years depending on use to remove residual solids.
Do not flush fat or grease down your drains.
Do not put harsh chemicals like paint or paint thinner down the drain.
Use septic safe detergents and paper products.
Space out water usage to the extent that it is convenient.
Conserve water by installing low volume showerheads and toilets.
Be aware that most septic system backups are caused by running toilets.

*The thing most likely to set off
an explosion in the home
is an old flame.