Proper septic tank drainage is essential for the smooth operation of the entire septic system. Ensuring that waste is processed efficiently without causing harm to the environment, nor creating unpleasant odours, are two motivating reasons to maintain your septic tank. This blog post delves into the importance of septic tank drainage, essential maintenance practices, and will alert you to the signs of drainage issues.
- PREVENT system backups:
Efficient drainage ensures that the septic tank does not clog up with excess waste. By monitoring and maintaining your septic tank, you reduce the risk of backups and sewage overflow inside your home or garden.
- PROTECT the Infiltration tanks:
Adequate drainage prevents the accumulation of untreated effluent in the drain field. Effluent is the liquid waste from your household which flows out of the septic tank into the drain field. This effluent undergoes natural biological processes within the tank, where solids settle to the bottom as sludge and lighter substances float to the top as scum. The remaining liquid, known as effluent, exits the septic tank through the outlet pipe and enters the infiltration tank for further treatment and absorption into the soil. By ensuring that your septic tank is draining properly, the waste will be absorbed and filtered by the soil in the infiltration tanks. When drainage is compromised, it can lead to clogging of the infiltration tanks, resulting in potential repairs or replacements.
- PRESERVE groundwater quality:
An effective drainage system prevents untreated effluent from contaminating the groundwater supply, which can have severe health and environmental consequences.
Essential maintenance practices
Here are some essential maintenance practices to ensure the optimal functioning of your septic system:
- Regular septic tank pumping:
Regular pumping of the septic tank is essential to prevent backups and clogging of the infiltration tanks. The frequency of pumping depends on factors such as household size, water usage, and tank capacity.
- Water conservation:
Avoid overwhelming the septic tank with high water-usage. Pace out water-intensive activities and use water-efficient appliances.
- Proper waste disposal:
Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items, chemicals, grease, or excessive solids down the drain, as these can clog the system and impair proper drainage.
Signs of drainage issues:
Pay attention to these common indicators of septic tank drainage problems:
- Slow drains and gurgling sounds in your sinks, toilets, or drains.
- Foul odours emitted from your garden, drains or septic tank area are a sign of untreated waste or sewage gases.
- Water pooling in the garden might indicate a problem with the drainage system. This might indicate a clogged infiltration tank or a malfunctioning septic tank.
Avoid costly repairs and replacements by ensuring your septic tank drainage is adequate! Consult Shadai, a professional septic service provider, to determine the ideal pumping schedule for your system:
