A septic system consists of a septic tank and drain field, and in some cases a pump tank for those who cannot gravity feed to the drain field like here in many parts of Pinellas County. Septic systems can last for decades, if given the proper maintenance along with some helpful tips and knowledge that all homeowners should know.
Contact Info:
Name: Billy Fowler
Email: [email protected]
Organization: ASAP Advanced Septic & Drainage, Inc.
Address: 5011 E Busch Blvd, Tampa, FL 33617
Phone: (813) 986-6070
Septic Tank Installation, Repair and Replacement

Understanding septic systems capabilities and limits is needed to ensure water quality. A septic system is a type of On-Site Sewage Facility and is a self-contained, underground waste-water treatment system. By using natural processes to treat the waste-water on-site, septic systems do not require the installation of miles of sewer lines, making them less disruptive to the environment. A septic system consists of a septic tank, a distribution system and a soil absorption system, also called a drain field. The septic tank is a watertight box, sometimes made out of concrete or fiberglass, with an inlet and outlet pipe. The septic tank treats the waste-water naturally by holding it in the tank long enough for solids and liquids to separate. The waste-water forms three layers inside the tank. Solids lighter than water float to the top forming a layer of scum.Solids heavier than water settle at the bottom of the tank forming a layer of sludge. This leaves a middle layer of partially clarified waste-water. The layers of sludge and scum remain in the septic tank where bacteria found naturally in the waste-water work to break the solids down. The sludge and scum that cannot be broken down are retained in the tank until the tank is pumped. The layer of liquid flows from the septic tank to the drain field. A drain a series of trenches lined with gravel or sand and below the ground. The drain field treats the waste-water by allowing it to slowly trickle from the pipes out into the gravel and down through the soil. The remaining impurities are trapped and disposed of in the soil. The excess water is eliminated through percolation into the soil, and eventually returning to the ground water, through evaporation, and by uptake through plants and transpiration.The Center for Watershed Protection notes that septic systems can be effective methods of water treatment, however failures are common in many areas. Even properly functioning septic systems can leak and are not designed to effectively deal with most of the phosphorus and nitrogen load found in the water it treats. Pathogenic fecal bacteria are also a concern. The primary concern for a municipality is proper maintenance of septic systems, and in some cases the total load of partially treated pollutants that can impact local drinking water and wildlife. A solid understanding of septic systems capabilities and limits, and a good government plan is needed to ensure water quality.
Typically, a 3 bedroom home with 2250 sq ft of living or less has a 900 gallon septic tank and can be used here in Pinellas County . The septic tank receives all the waste water from a home. This includes showers, toilets, washing machine, dishwasher and sinks. According to the American water works association, the average person uses about 70 gallons per day on average. The family of 4 would add up to 280 gallons a day. So, just imagine how fast your septic tank will fill up, and how much water must flow through the tank to make it out to the drain field.
5 Tips to Keep Your Septic System Running Clean

Septic tank systems are common in rural areas. Homes that are not attached to a municipal sewer system use these as a form of sewage treatment. A septic system carries the waste from a home into the septic tank. Regular maintenance and checks are required to keep it all working the way it should. Over a period of time, the sludge builds up in the container. It is necessary to pump out this sludge and keep the tank working the way it should. Symptoms Of A Choked Septic Tank There are some distinct symptoms that indicate a sludge build up and you will need to hire the services of a reliable septic tank cleaning company to have it cleaned out once every few years. These personnel are trained in carrying out sewage treatment and pumping. You should call them the minute you detect foul odor in the vicinity of your home. Water accumulation in the yard or above the container is another indicator that there is a blockage. Do not delay in calling them the minute you notice any of these indicators. Professional cleaning companies have trucks that have powerful vacuums attached to them. They carry out the job in an efficient manner. The tank will have some water in it even when the sludge has been cleaned out. This is very normal and cleaning the tank regularly is very important.
Through consistent septic tank pumping, and by following these important tips can help avoid costly backup and also increase the life of your system.
Septic Tank Maintenance - 5 Essential Factors For Proper Septic Systems

While having a septic system at home is great, it is also a big responsibility. You need to get your pump cleaned every two or three years depending on various factors. This should be done so that the whole system works smoothly and you won't have to keep repairing or even replacing the tank.Important Factors to ConsiderLifestyle: The two major lifestyle factors that affect the septic system are the age of people living in the house and the amount of water that is used at home. Age is an important factor because houses with young children and growing families often use a lot more water and they don't really watch what is being put down the drains. On the other hand, older people, especially couples living on their own, often do not use as much water. So when there is less water being used at home, less solid mater is put down the drain along with the water.When you get your tank pumped, it is advisable to get it inspected as well. Most companies who offer septic services also have certified inspectors who will let you know if there is any damage to the septic system and if any repairs need to be conducted. If you can put in this little effort and ensure that the whole system is cleaned out and inspected occasionally, your septic tank won't only last you for years but it will also work smoothly and manage wastewater effectively.
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