Information
Many of our customers have questions about their septic systems. We decided to add this section to help our customers understand what it is we do. This section will also contain information to help you keep your septic tank and wallet healthy and happy!
Septic System
The septic system is the entire system a residential home uses to contain and process waste. A septic system consist of two main parts: the septic tank and the field lines. The septic tank is where all the waste and wastewater from your house is sent after it goes down your drains. It's main purpose is to separate the solid waste from the liquid. The liquid wastewater is then sent to your field lines to percolate into the ground. Most modern system consist of two chambers one to hold the majority of the waste and a smaller chamber to hold the water that will go to the field lines. We call the pipe going from your tank to the field lines the outlet tee. The most expensive part of the system is the field lines, therefore, on the outlet tee we install a filter. Below is a further breakdown of the types of tanks, photos to help visualize, videos to watch, and tips to keep your system healthy.
How a septic Tank Works
The above video mentions adding bacteria to the tank, however, the manufacturers of septic tanks have since recommended you avoid doing so as it can upset the balance of your tank. The rest of the tips are very useful!
Most Common Types of Tanks
One Chamber Septic Tank
The one chamber septic tank is common in houses prior to the 1990s. February 20th, 2000 it became law in Georgia that septic tanks must have two compartments and an effluent filter. The issue with the one chamber tanks is they offer little to no extra protection for your field lines. As shown in the photo there is no chamber to contain the solid waste away from the outlet tee/baffle. Many people go years without getting a septic pump and that isn't an issue, until it is. Due to the lack of chambers or filters to prevent solid waste from getting to your field lines, it is likely when you do start to notice an issue it is already too late as the solids have made it to your lines and they will likely need to be replaced.
Conventional Septic Tank
The conventional or two chambered tank is a modern tank with many protective measures to keep your field lines healthy. As shown in the photo there is wall to keep the majority of scum and solid waste from the outlet tee/baffle. There is also a filter on the outlet tee/baffle to further prevent solid waste from making it to your field lines. Both of these measures help insure your field lines remain healthy. Due to these protections you generally have more time after an issue is noticed before irreversible damage is done to your system. Getting your tank pumped every 3-5 years prevents the solid waste from building up and lets the company clean or replace your filter.
What happens to a septic tank over time?
In the photos above you see what happens to your septic tank over time. In one chamber tanks especially this can cause thousands of dollars in damage as it can irreversibly damage or destroy your field lines. The state of Georgia recommends getting your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years depending on the number of people in your house and the size of your tank. How long has it been since your tank was pumped?
State of Georgia Recommended Pump Frequency
Most residential homes have a 1,000 gallons to 1,500 gallon tank
Found in "GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SECTION A HOMEOWNER’S GUIDE TO ON-SITE SEWAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS"
The state of Georgia now recommends that pumpers & installers explain to customers they should have their septic tanks pumped once every 3-5 years. This is to ensure a healthy septic tank; to check on the filter, inlet & outlet tees/baffles, and to ensure the health of your field lines.
What are Risers? Do I need them?
In the most common types of tanks section, the conventional septic tank, risers are shown. What are risers and how will they help you?
The state of Georgia requires your septic tank top to be between 6 and 12 inches below the ground. Risers should be installed if the tank is below 12 inches.