Ms. Rooter Septic Services
A Metro Atlanta Area Septic Tank Professional
Call us now on (470) 999-ROOT (7668)
Septic Systems
Septic tank systems information is certainly in abundance online, but much of what you’ll find is either outdated or inaccurate. Every unit is different, so the best way to find out septic tank systems information for your particular model and all of its fixtures is to call Ms. Rooter, so we can perform an inspection of your unit. This way, you’ll know exactly what you’re dealing with and will be aware of any repairs or maintenance that need to be done. However, we’ve provided some general data below, to help you better understand what your unit does and how all the parts work together.
Septic Tank Systems Information: Tanks
The heart of every system is the tank. Every drain in the building empties into a main line, which connects to the tank. The tank is outdoors and is usually buried, so some homeowners aren’t even aware they have one until the experience an issue from failing to maintain it.
The tank is responsible for the initial processing of all the building’s wastewater. Most of today’s models are either fiberglass or concrete and have two chambers, but there are other materials used and some have only a single chamber for processing.
The wastewater enters the tank through an “inlet” where a “baffle” helps encourage it to divide into three layers; scum, effluent, and sludge. Scum floats on the top and is made up of buoyant materials, such as oil and grease, and sludge contains dense materials, like detergent and waste. Effluent is suspended in the center, and is mostly free of debris.
Septic Tank Systems Information: Absorption Fields
As the levels rise in the tank, the effluent exits through an “outlet” to some sort of absorption field. It’s here that the liquid is returned to the earth, where the soil’s natural bacteria finishes cleaning it. Most units use a leach field or drain field to accomplish this. A leach field consists of a series of underground perforated pipes that slowly and evenly distribute the effluent into the soil. Most leach fields have rocks or gravel around the lines to allow the effluent easier passage out. Soil and grass usually cover the leach field, so it’s undetectable to an untrained eye.
Septic Tank Systems Information: Care and Maintenance
Over time, the scum and sludge in the tank build up and need to be pumped out. Homes should have this done every 3-5 years, though if a garbage disposal, spa, or another big contributor is hooked up, annual pumping may need to be done. At this time, all the components should also be inspected, to ensure everything is in good repair and functioning properly.
Contact Ms. Rooter for Detailed Septic Tank Systems Information from Our Reliable Partners
Ms. Rooter handle everything related to your unit. Whether you’d just like an inspection to learn more about your components, are ready for your regular maintenance, or are experiencing an issue, we can help. Call (470) 999-7668 to schedule an appointment today.