Weekly Home Information Guide
SEPTIC SYSTEM
Septic systems are typically installed by reputable trade professionals where communal, regional, or municipal sewage systems are unavailable.
The four major components consist of the sewer line, watertight tank (collecting black and grey water), a distribution box and the disposal field (or leaching bed).
The black and gray water enters the tank. This is the site where the enzymes brake down the particulate matter into their various forms. Here it is allowed to separate into the sludge that settles and the scum that floats. The solids that have converted to a liquid are then sent to the disposal field. There may be a distribution box downstream of the tank but ahead of the disposal field. There may also be a sewage ejector pump used where the disposal field is at a higher elevation. Have the ejector pump professionally maintained yearly.
The disposal field consists of perforated or open jointed pipes in trenches below the ground that allow the liquid waste now known as effluent to percolate into the surrounding soil. The disposal field has a typical life span of 25 - 30 years provided the whole system is visually inspected if practical every year and the tank is cleaned every three to five years by a specialist. The septic tank and distribution box have an inspection port and are usually covered by soil. These must be located. Modern tanks and boxes are either concrete or fiberglass and older systems may have wood construction. Wood is subject to failure and should to considered outdated.
The septic tank water may evaporate somewhat after non-use. Consult a septic/drainage specialist before first use is recommended.
Contact the previous owner or your Realtor for any/all service records and information or the regional authority for the latest service records of the septic system if available.
The common causes of failure include neglecting to inspect and clean the system on a regular basis, poor understanding of its proper use, a saturated field, a structure built on top of the distribution box or the disposal field, broken piping, cracked tank or box, a rising water table, a leaking fixture, heavy rain fall. Never drive a vehicle over the field.
Indicators of a failed field include a strong sewer order, very green grass growing atop the field, slow drainage from the home or even backing up into the home and a spongy feeling when walking on the surface while cutting the grass.
To prolong the service life of the septic system we suggest the following practical solutions. Compost all vegetable matter, repair all leaking fixtures and direct all downspouts and storm drains away from the disposal fields. Flush only the grey and black water from the sinks, tubs, showers and toilets. Do not flush the following items as they usually do not break down in a private septic system:
- Fats, oils, grease,
- Cleaning fluids, paints, solvents, thinners, disinfectants,
- Cigarette butts, Q-tips, tampons, disposable diapers, dental floss,
- Man made chemicals,
- Coffee grounds, kitty litter,
- Pesticides
There are many others so please be careful of what goes down the drain.
There are different types of septic tests that could be performed on the whole system if needed. Do not drive any vehicle over the septic field, plant a garden, shrubs/trees or place any building on the drainage area.
Owning a home is probably the largest single investment a person may make in their lifetime and to ensure that the home does not prematurely deteriorate the homeowner is urged to have a yearly maintenance schedule. Simple tasks undertaken on a seasonal basis will help prolong the health of the home and its occupants year after year.
We recommend a qualified tradesperson do all tasks, as they offer quality materials, proper installation requirements and a written guarantee.
Know that, for peace of mind, the care and attention you give your home will serve you well year after year and in comfort.