Central Oregon’s Septic Service family owned since 1963
Contact David for help with your Septic Needs. 541-419-3148
Professional Septic Services Throughout Central OR
Septic Cleaning And Draining
Inspection And Pumping Services
Septic Tank Care And Maintenance
Pumping And Cleaning Interior And Exterior Grease Interceptor Tanks
Septic Screen Cleaning
Tips for Septic Tank and System Maintenance
As the owner of a septic system you need to be aware of the important role you have in protecting your community's water quality and property values. The negligent homeowner who allows his or her onsite system to contaminate the environment can effect the entire community.
First some basics: When properly designed, installed and maintained, an onsite wastewater system, also known as a septic system, is a cost-effective and efficient method of wastewater treatment. Septic systems collect, treat and disperse wastewater generated by residences and businesses. A typical system consists of two main parts: the septic tank and a soil absorption area also know as a drain field, leach field or disposal.
The septic tank is a watertight container that is corrosion resistant, usually made of precast concrete, fiberglass or plastic. Some older systems have metal tanks. The main function of the tank is to collect wastewater, both the black water from the toilets and the gray water from the sinks, showers, laundry, etc. A properly sized system allows the water to remain in the tank long enough to separate the solids from the liquids. Solids lighter than water float to the top forming a layer of scum. Solids heavier than water settle to the bottom forming a layer of sludge. Natural bacteria present in the wastewater digest a portion of the solids. Biological and chemical additives are not necessary to aid or accelerate decomposition and some can actually damage the system. Any scum or sludge which is not digested remains in the tank, this is the reason garbage disposals are not recommended as they add unnecessary solids. Remember the solids in black water have undergone some natural digestion in the human body; items put down a garbage disposal have not. Once the solids are separated, there remains a middle layer of partially clarified wastewater. It is this partially clarified wastewater that flows into the absorption portion of the system. The wastewater is further treated by letting the soil act as a biological filter. As the wastewater moves through the soil, the filtration process and organisms in the soil work to remove toxins, bacteria, viruses and other pollutants before it reaches the ground water.
With continued use solids accumulate in the tank. As solid levels increase, there is inadequate time for incoming wastewater to separate the solids from the liquids. When allowed to build beyond proper operating levels, solids are forced into the absorption area which can create costly repairs. An increase in solid levels past proper operating can also cause sewage to back up onto your home or business.
As a property a property owner, it is your responsibility to maintain your septic system. At George's Septic Septic Tank Service, we can help you with the maintenance of your septic system to keep your investment running smoothly.
