About Septic Tanks and Septic Systems

Information About Private Waste Removal Systems at Your Home

Although you should inspect them prior to purchase, most modern septic systems function in a clean and efficient manner now that regulatory agencies closely monitor their design and installation.

What is a Septic System?

A septic system processes and neutralizes liquid and solid waste that exits your home from stools, sinks and other plumbing fixtures.

A conventional septic system consists of three main parts:

• Septic tank
• Drainfield
• Soil beneath the drainfield

The Septic Tank

• A temporary, watertight holding tank for waste, often buried near the house. Tanks usually have a capacity of 1,000 or more gallons.

• Solids settle to the bottom of the tank and form a layer of sludge.

• Liquid waste exits near the top of the tank and flows through distribution pipes in the drainfield.

Septic Drainfield

• Multiple, gravel-lined trenches, usually 2-3 feet deep, where liquid that exits the tank flows. The drainfield is positioned so that gravity allows liquid waste to flow and become distributed into the area.

• Perforated distribution pipes are placed in drainfield trenches, ensuring that liquid waste can drain over a large area. The bottoms of the trenches are at least 12 inches above the groundwater table, sometimes more depending on the type of soil, so that waste is neutralized before entering.

• The drainfield is covered with soil before the system is used.

Soil

• Natural components of soil neutralize bacteria and chemicals before they reach groundwater or nearby rivers and lakes. The ideal soil is aerobic, meaning it contains a good amount of cleansing oxygen, and is not saturated with water.

Septic System Variations

If You're Buying Land

Ask your real estate agent which government agency regulates systems in the area where you plan to build. If you are purchasing a house already on a septic system, ask for a copy of the original septic permit, since it should show you the location of the tank and drainfield.

Ask your home inspector about specific septic system tests that can be performed during your home inspection.