Septic System ABC’s

A septic system is made up of three parts. The first is the tank; the disposal field is the second; and soil is the third.

• The purpose of the tank is to separate most of the solid waste from the water. Conventional septic tanks store the solid waste until you remove it by pumping the tank. Aerobic tanks produce oxygen breathing bacteria that remove solid waste by digesting it, eliminating the need to pump.
• The disposal field spreads the liquid from the tank over a large underground area so that it can be absorbed by the soil.
• In the soil, tiny life forms called microbes eat the remaining waste in the liquid.

This process purifies the liquid so it is safe for humans and will not pollute drinking water or the environment.

Conventional septic systems utilize bacteria found in human waste that thrive in an environment lacking oxygen (anaerobic bacteria) to break down solid waste. Biomat is a slimy black layer made by the bacteria and partially decomposed waste. It is formed in the soil surrounding the drainage pipes maintaining an anaerobic environment. This slime slows both water and oxygen from passing through it. Over time, the disposal fields become increasingly clogged with biomat until they fail.

Biomat slime is the cause of 95 percent of septic system failures.

Luckily, Septic Genie is here to help. We offer an innovative septic restoration and maintenance solution that can help you solve even your most difficult septic problems. Contact us today  or fill out the form below about your septic system maintenance needs.