Septic System Basics
Knowing how the system works will help you clean and maintain yours. According to the EPA, one in four households in the United States today use some form of a septic system to dispose of household wastes, and with this figure comes great accountability. It is the responsibility of each individual homeowner to periodically maintain, inspect, and care for their own septic system, a task which not only can adversely affect the homeowner, but also the environment and future environmental health of the surrounding community. With every septic system comes four main parts, which are described in detail below: Main Household Drain Pipe: This pipe channels all household liquids and wastes from bathroom and kitchen sinks, toilets, and most other drains to the second part of the system, the septic tank. Septic Tank: Left untreated household wastes can detrimentally affect the absorption field and clog perimeter drains. Usually made out of concrete or fiberglass, the septic tank offers a place f...