How Do Septic Systems Work?

ASAP Septic is an industry leader here in Boise, Idaho. We take our job very seriously and make it a top priority to provide high-quality service so we can keep your septic system running smoothly. Today, we'll be sharing the basics behind how a septic system works. 

The General Idea

Most people know the basic idea behind septic systems: a home or business with a septic system isn't hooked up to municipal water, which means that wastewater from sinks, showers, dishwashers, washing machines, and toilets isn't carried away to a wastewater treatment plant. Instead, the wastewater is flushed into a septic tank, where waste is stored. 

This is all accurate, but there's a little more to the story. First, let's talk about the difference pieces and parts of a septic system. 

The Equipment

Although not all septic systems are the same, here are some basic parts that most septic systems will have: 

  • Inlet: the main drain line that wastewater from the house passes through to reach the tank
  • Inspection ports, or caps: openings at the top of the tank that allow access for septic tank pumping or inspections
  • Outlet: a pipe that allows water to leave the tank to the distribution box
  • Distribution box: the starting point of the leach field. The outlet feeds into it, and the number of pipes branch off of it. 
  • Leach field: also called the drain field. A network of perforated pipes that allows water to drain back into the soil
The Principle
Once wastewater reaches the septic tank, the solid waste begins to settle. Some waste will settle to the bottom of the tank and form a layer called sludge. Other waste will float to the top of the tank, forming a layer called scum. The natural microbial biome in the septic tank includes bacteria that break down the waste, compacting it as it settles, making room for more waste. 

A septic system is designed so that the relatively waste-free water between the sludge and scum layers can run off and be reabsorbed into the ground at the drain field. The water is filtered through the ground; bacteria and other undesirable microscopic particles are filtered out and by the time the water reaches underground water supplies, it's pure water. Utilizing this natural filtration system and allowing water to reenter the water cycle makes septic systems not only affordable, but also ecologically friendly. 

At ASAP Septic, we offer all services necessary to keep your septic system running smoothly. We hope you learned something about septic systems today and are happy to provide additional information or septic help at any time. Give us a call at (208) 991-7184 today!

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