Septic tank

Septic tank is a key component of the septic system, a small-scale sewage treatment system common in areas with no connection to main sewage pipes provided by local governments or private corporations.

Overview

A septic tank is a watertight chamber made of concrete, fiberglass, PVC or plastic, through which domestic wastewater (sewage) flows for primary treatment. Settling and anaerobic processes reduce solids and organics, but the treatment is only moderate. Septic tank systems are a type of onsite sewage facility (OSSF). They can be used in areas that are not connected to a sewerage system, such as rural areas. The treated liquid effluent is commonly disposed in a septic drain field, which provides further treatment. However, groundwater pollution may occur and can be a problem.

Design and function

The tank is connected with two pipes (for inlet and outlet). The inlet pipe collects the water waste in the septic tank, long enough that the solid and liquid waste is separated from each other. The outlet pipe also called the 'leach field', the 'drain field' or 'seepage field' depending upon locality. A septic drain field is a vital part of any septic system. An improper drain field can lead to wastewater not being removed properly and can lead to a foul smell and surface water pollution.

Maintenance

Septic tanks by themselves are ineffective at removing nitrogen compounds that have potential to cause algal blooms in waterways into which affected water from a septic system finds its way. This can be remedied by using a nitrogen-reducing technology, or by simply ensuring that the leach field is properly sited to prevent direct entry of effluent into bodies of water.

See also

• Sewage treatment
• Septic drain field
• Cesspit
• Imhoff tank
• List of waste-water treatment technologies

References

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