1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Home Buying / Selling
Septic System
<Back to Last Page>     <Full Glossary>

Definition: A private waste removal system for homes that are not connected to a community sewer. A conventional septic system consists of three main parts: a septic tank, a drainfield, and the soil beneath the drainfield. Waste is filtered to the soil, where components in the soil neutralize bacteria and chemicals before they reach groundwater or nearby rivers and lakes.

Related Resources:

Maintaining a Septic System
Simple steps you can take to ensure your septic system operates in a trouble free manner.

Private Waste Removal Systems
If you've always lived in a city or town, you might not be familiar with septic systems. Get the facts before buying rural property that isn't attached to a public waste removal system.

<Back to Last Page>     <Full Glossary>

Explore Home Buying / Selling

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Make Your Own Scented Pine Cones

Bring a little of the fall season in your home with this easy-to-make craft. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Home Buying / Selling

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.