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Septic Systems: Septic Tank
Septic tanks must have an inlet and an outlet baffle. These baffles prevent certain materials in the wastewater from entering the disposal area by trapping the substances within the tank. These substances are known as scum and consist of paper, grease, and similar materials that are lighter than the wastewater. The septic tank must have an access cover over each baffle and one in the center of the tank for periodic sludge pumping. Risers with grouted seams and covers should be considered for placement over all openings to prevent groundwater infiltration into treatment tank openings. Septic tanks should be accessed through the cleanout cover when being pumped to allow the suction hose to reach all sludge accumulations. |
septic
tank is a watertight container that is generally made up of concrete.
This container provides a place for the primary treatment of
wastewater. The raw wastewater is held for a period of one to three
days in the tank where it is subjected to a combination of physical,
chemical and biological actions, resulting in the conversion of the
solid material to liquid and gases. The gases either will escape
through the house plumbing vent or will mix with the effluent. After
this has occurred, the then clarified liquid will be piped to the
disposal field. Some of the solids will remain in the tank as sludge
or scum and must be removed periodically to prevent carryover to the
disposal field. (See