FAQ

An onsite sewage system, also known as a septic system, is a type of wastewater treatment system that is commonly used in rural or suburban areas where a central sewage treatment plant is not available. These systems are designed to treat and dispose of household sewage and wastewater on the property where it is generated.

The main components of an onsite sewage system include a septic tank, a drainfield, and a soil absorption area. The septic tank is a large, underground container that is designed to hold and treat wastewater. As wastewater enters the septic tank, it is separated into three layers: a top layer of scum, a middle layer of wastewater, and a bottom layer of sludge. Bacteria in the septic tank break down the organic matter in the wastewater, which helps to reduce the volume of the waste and prevent it from becoming a public health hazard.

The treated wastewater is then discharged into the drainfield, which is a series of underground pipes that are designed to distribute the wastewater evenly across the soil absorption area. The soil absorption area is a large, open area of land that is covered in soil and vegetation. As the wastewater is absorbed into the soil, it is further treated and filtered by the bacteria and other microorganisms that naturally occur in the soil.

Onsite sewage systems are an effective way to treat and dispose of household wastewater in areas where a central sewage treatment plant is not available. However, they require regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that they are functioning properly and not causing any environmental or health hazards.

Septic systems should be serviced regularly to ensure they function properly and to prevent costly repairs. The frequency of servicing your septic system will depend on several factors, including the size of the system, the number of people living in your home, the amount of water you use, and the amount of solids that are flushed down the drain.

As a general guideline, septic systems should be inspected and pumped every 3-5 years. However, some systems may require more frequent servicing, particularly those that have a smaller capacity or are used by larger households. Alternatively, if you have a larger system or fewer people using it, you may be able to extend the time between servicing.

It's important to note that regular inspections and maintenance can help identify problems early on, so they can be addressed before they turn into more significant issues. Signs that your septic system may need servicing include slow drains, foul odors, and sewage backups. If you notice any of these signs, you should contact a professional to have your system inspected and serviced as soon as possible.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the frequency of servicing your septic system is to consult with a professional. They can help you understand the specific needs of your system and recommend a maintenance schedule that is tailored to your situation.

Most likely both.  Good and bad bacteria but each system can be different.  Yes, there is bacteria in a septic system. In fact, bacteria are an essential component of a septic system's operation.

Septic systems rely on a natural process called biological digestion to break down and treat wastewater. Bacteria are the primary agents of this process. They work to decompose organic matter in the wastewater, converting it into harmless byproducts like carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen.

Different types of bacteria play different roles in the septic system. Some bacteria break down solids, while others help to purify the water. By working together, these bacteria help to keep the system functioning properly and effectively treat the wastewater.

It's important to note that the types and amounts of bacteria in a septic system can be impacted by factors like the use of antibacterial soaps, harsh cleaning chemicals, and the disposal of non-biodegradable materials like plastics and cigarette butts. These can kill off or inhibit the growth of the bacteria needed for proper system function. As such, it's important to use septic-safe products and avoid flushing anything that could harm the system. Regular maintenance and pumping of the septic tank can also help to restore the bacterial balance in the system.

Most septic systems malfunction because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.