Septic Tank Pumping: Removal of Septic Solids

Have you ever wondered how raw sewage is processed when it leaves your home? You simply flush the toilet and everything disappears! Where exactly does it go? If you have a septic system, keep reading and you will learn all about the mystery of waste processing. Perhaps you have seen a Roto-Rooter truck doing septic tank pumping  and wondered what was going on? They were likely pumping solids from someone’s septic tank, a procedure that must be performed every few years on a septic system.

Mechanics of a Septic System

For those who are not able to hook into a city sewer system, the alternative is a septic system. There are essentially four parts to a sewer treatment system like this.

• Sewer drainpipe—this comes out of your home and carries waste into the system.
• Septic tank— this collects the waste. Upon entering the tank, the waste begins to separate. The heavier solids (sludge) settle on the bottom of the tank. The greases and fatty substances (scum) float to the top. All the fluids (effluent) drain out an opening in the tank.
• Effluent drainpipe—this pipe carries the effluent to the drainfield.
• Drain field—this is a system of perforated pipes buried a few feet in your soil. The effluent enters this area and slowly trickles into the soil. Because this liquid is full of germs, it still poses a health hazard to humans and animals. The soil collects these impurities then systematically filters and kills them.

Care of the Septic System

It is important that no kitchen grease, solid waste, petroleum products, and dangerous chemicals be flushed into the septic system. These products will inhibit the natural process of breaking down the raw sewage. It is also suggested that no enzymes or other retail chemicals be placed into the septic system.

Depending on how much usage the system has, you will need to have Roto-Rooter perform a septic tank pumping  in order to remove the build-up of solids in the septic tank. A septic system that is installed correctly should be able to go two or three years before needing to be pumped.

It is important that no vehicles drive over the drainfield. You can grow grass and shallow-rooted plants over the drain field. However, avoid planting deep-rooted trees, as they will inhibit the natural processing of the effluent.