Septic tanks play an important role in the septic system. They help deal with waste and protect groundwater for people who live in areas that don't have a sewer service. You must make sure your septic tank is properly maintained and is working well because septic tank problems can be costly and even dangerous.

Details about Septic Tanks

Septic tanks are part of a septic system; these tanks are made of a strong metal that will not corrode, or they can be made of a durable plastic. When waste travels to the septic tank, it'll start to settle while in the tank. When the waste settles, heavier parts of it will sink while the water that is present in the waste rises to the top of the tank. The water is allowed to go back into the ground after it's been properly treated.

The sludge in the tank is treated by anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria can survive in places where there is no oxygen. The septic tank doesn't have oxygen in it, and this will also help kill certain diseases. The bacteria are in the tank in order to break down all the solids and waste that were sent to the tank from your house. These bacteria can't break down everything, so pumping the septic system is important.

Importance of Maintaining Your Septic Tank

Septic tanks need to be properly maintained in order to save you money. A septic tank that is not inspected annually and fixed when there is a problem will fail much sooner than if it is properly taken care of. When a septic tank fails, you have to replace it. This can cost up to 10,000 dollars. It's a very large amount of money; if you properly maintain your septic tank and hire a professional to fix problems when they occur, you won't have to spend more than two hundred dollars every now and then.

Another reason why you need to maintain your septic system and have it inspected is to prevent pollution. A septic system that fails will allow wastewater that hasn't been treated completely to leak into the ground. This wastewater is dangerous and contains diseases and chemicals that can taint the water supply; furthermore, if you or another person comes in contact with the wastewater, it could cause serious problems. A properly functioning septic system keeps the environment and people safe.

How to Maintain Your Septic Tank

There are many things you should do to ensure your septic system stays in good shape. First of all, don't flush anything down the toilet that isn't biodegradable; refrain from flushing toys or objects down the toilet. These objects can cause the septic tank problems. Also, try to conserve water.

An annual inspection of your septic system should be done, and the septic system needs to be pumped on a regular basis. Finally, if you believe there is a problem with your tank, you should call to have it checked out and fixed if it needs it.

Septic tanks carry out important processes to handle waste and treat it. They need to be properly maintained to protect the environment and the community as well. Maintaining a septic tank is easy and only requires a little bit of work to keep it in great condition.

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… written by Shane Creggan - a freelance blogger who writes on home and DIY topics. Shane enjoys playing golf.