Understanding Septic Tank Drainage Fields: The What, How, And Why
Septic tank drainage fields are an important part of any septic system. They are responsible for dispersing and treating the wastewater from your septic tank. Though often overlooked, they play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and functional septic system. This blog post will walk you through what septic tank drainage fields are, how they work, and why proper maintenance is key to the health of your septic system.
What Are Septic Tank Drainage Fields?
Septic tank drainage fields, also known as leach fields or drain fields, are a series of perforated pipes that are installed underground. They are connected to the outlet of your septic tank, and their purpose is to disperse the wastewater that has been treated in the septic tank. The wastewater will slowly drip out of the perforated pipes and into the surrounding soil, which is responsible for filtering and breaking down the remaining bacteria and pollutants found in the wastewater.
How Do Septic Tank Drainage Fields Work?
Septic tank drainage fields work on the principle of gravity. The treated wastewater from the septic tank flows into the drainage field pipe system, where it is dispersed into the soil. The soil layer acts as a natural biological filter, removing bacteria and pollutants from the wastewater before it enters the groundwater. The drainage field pipes have perforations that allow the wastewater to flow out and into the surrounding gravel bed. As the wastewater flows through the gravel, it is further treated through biological processes that occur within the soil. Once the water is treated, it will eventually make its way back into the groundwater.
Why Is Proper Maintenance of Septic Tank Drainage Fields Important?
Septic tank drainage fields require regular maintenance to ensure that they are working efficiently. The buildup of sludge in the septic tank can cause the drainage fields to become clogged, reducing the ability of the soil to filter the wastewater. This can lead to groundwater pollution, sewage backups, and other health hazards. The proper maintenance of septic tank drainage fields includes regular pumping of the septic tank, minimizing the use of harsh chemicals, not flushing non-biodegradable materials down the toilet, and avoiding parking heavy vehicles on top of the drainage field.
What Are the Signs of Septic Tank Drainage Field Problems?
Being aware of the signs of septic tank drainage field problems is crucial in preventing expensive repairs. The signs include odors in and around the septic tank, slow drains or toilets, pools of water or lush vegetation around the drainage field, and standing water on the surface of the ground above the drainage field. If you notice any of these signs, you should immediately contact a professional septic system company to have your system checked and repaired.
Reach out to a septic tank repair service for more information.