On-site sewage facilities, also called septic systems, treat and dispose of wastewater from toilets, showers, sinks, and other sources in homes not served by a public sewer system. Most people don’t think about their sewage system until there is a problem. However, understanding how your on-site sewage facility (OSSF) works can help prevent problems and keep your family safe. This article will provide a brief overview of how OSSFs work.
How OSSFs Work
OSSFs typically consist of four main components:
Septic Tank
A septic tank is a key component of an OSSF and is used to treat wastewater from toilets, sinks, showers, and other household fixtures. Septic tanks usually have concrete, fiberglass, or plastic and have one or more compartments. Wastewater enters the tank, where bacteria treat it. Solid waste settles to the bottom of the tank, while treated effluent flows out to a leach field for further treatment. Septic tanks need to be regularly cleaned out by a plumber to prevent them from becoming overloaded and causing effluent to back up into the home.
Effluent Filter
Another crucial component of an OSSF is an effluent filter is a key component. Its purpose is to remove suspended solids and other contaminants from wastewater before it is discharged into the environment. There are several different effluent filters.
One type of effluent filter is the Trickling Filter. Trickling filters use a bed of gravel or other media to support a population of microorganisms. These microorganisms break down the waste in the water, which then flows through the gravel and out of the filter. Trickling filters are simple to operate and maintain, but they can be less effective in removing certain contaminants.
Another type of effluent filter is the Activated Sludge Process (ASP). In an ASP, sewage is mixed with bacteria and aerated to promote the growth of the bacteria. The bacteria then break down the sewage, passing the resulting water through a clarification tank where the solids are removed. ASPs are more effective than trickling filters in removing certain types of contaminants, but they require more attention and maintenance.
The choice of effluent filter depends on the needs of the OSSF. Trickling filters are less expensive and easier to operate, but ASPs may be necessary for facilities that generate higher volumes of wastewater or for those that need to remove certain types of contaminants. A professional plumber in Haslet, TX, can help you choose the right effluent filter for your OSSF.
Soil Absorption Field
After the sewage has been treated in a septic tank and effluent filter, it is discharged into a soil absorption field (SAF) for final treatment. SAFs are usually made of concrete, stone, or gravel and typically have a network of pipes running through them. The effluent from the septic tank is distributed evenly throughout the SAF, where the soil slowly absorbs it. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing harmful bacteria and other contaminants from the water.
It is important to note that not all soils are suitable for use as a SAF. The soil must have good drainage, be deep enough to properly treat the effluent, and be free of contaminants that could leach into the groundwater. A qualified professional plumber must design and install the SAF to ensure that effluent is properly treated and does not contaminate groundwater or surface water. Otherwise, it can pose a serious health hazard.
Distribution Box
The distribution box (DB) is a component of an on-site sewage facility that distributes effluent evenly to the soil absorption field. The distribution box is typically made of concrete, plastic, or metal and has one or more compartments. It is connected to the effluent pipe from the septic tank or effluent filter and has a series of outlet pipes that lead to the soil absorption field. The DB should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure proper operation. Therefore, you should have a plumber inspect and clean it annually.
Keep Your OSSF Operating Properly
An on-site sewage facility is a crucial part of your home’s plumbing system, and it is important to keep it operating properly. Hire a qualified professional plumber in Haslet, TX, to design, install, inspect, and maintain your OSSF to ensure that it functions properly and does not pose a health hazard to you and your family.
Other ways to maintain your on-site sewage facility include:
- Pump the septic tank regularly – Septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years to remove the accumulated solids in the tank. If the solids are not removed, they will eventually clog the tank and cause it to fail. Get a professional to pump your septic tank to ensure it is done properly.
- Avoid planting trees and shrubs near the OSSF – The roots of trees and shrubs can damage the pipes and components of the OSSF. Therefore, you should avoid planting them within the area of the OSSF, as recommended by a professional plumber.
- Dispose of household chemicals properly – Many common household chemicals, such as cleaners and pesticides, can damage the septic tank bacteria responsible for breaking down sewage. Therefore, it is important to dispose of these chemicals properly.
- Repair any leaks in your system promptly – Leaks in your pipes or components of your OSSF can allow sewage to escape, contaminating groundwater and surface water. Therefore, hire a plumber to repair any leaks in your system as soon as possible.
We Are the Plumbing Professionals
Are you looking for a plumber to help you with your on-site sewage facility in Haslet, TX? Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth is the plumbing company to call. We are a full-service plumbing company that offers a wide range of services to both residential and commercial customers. We are equipped to handle any plumbing issue, no matter how big or small. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a qualified plumber. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Fort Worth is here to help.