At its simplest, a septic tank is a large tank that collects sewage that runs down the drains in your home. The wastewater is drained through the pipes and into the septic tank, where it is separated into three different consistencies. While the details of a septic system are not always the most pleasant, if you have a septic tank, you should know how it works. Understanding how it works makes it easier to know when you need to call a specialist. A specialist will be able to diagnose a problem in your septic tank and remedy it before it grows into a bigger problem.
The Tank Itself
The septic tank itself is typically about 1,500 gallons. Usually, it takes a family of four about four years to fill a 1,500 gallon tank. The wastewater in the tank sits still underground, which allows it to settle. The solid waste settles to the bottom of the septic tank. Any sort of oil or fat that is in the wastewater will separate from the water as well and will sit on top of the water. The middle layer is called greywater, which is actually very rich in nutrients that can help your grass grow. The greywater will leach into the backyard. A septic system in Quakertown, PA, is just that simple. If your Quakertown septic system has a problem, it could be with the tank itself, but it could also be with the pipes.
The Pipes
The pipes in your septic system can become clogged just like the pipes of any municipal system. If your pipes are clogged, you will see slow draining inside your home. The system is very simple, so, if you keep your eyes open, you’ll be able to notice when something goes wrong. If water is backing up in your yard or your home, these are signs that you likely have a tank issue.
