Though almost every home has a septic system (at least in suburban New Jersey), very few homeowners understand what a septic system entails, or how one works. Though the best way to learn the ins and outs (okay, it’s mostly outs) of your own system is with a septic inspection, NJ based septic inspection company Classic Septic offers some insight to answer the question, what is a septic system?
Septic systems can take various designs, and vary from location to location, often based on local regulations. By far the most common design involves a system that transfers water and waste from the house via pipes to a septic tank. Septic tanks are typically located underground, and are usually close to the house. They can be made of concrete or metal, and typically hold about 1000 gallons.
Inside the septic tank, the contents are broken down by bacteria. Gases are produced, which are generally vented via the plumbing system. Remaining solids either sink to the bottom of the tank (this is called sludge) or float on the top (this is called scum).
These solids are further broken by down bacteria over time. The remaining solid waste accumulates, and eventually must be professionally pumped. It’s a good idea to have your septic system inspected on occasion to make sure it is pumped before solids fill up the tank. An overflowing septic system can be costly to fix.
Meanwhile, the water inside the septic tank is strained out through baffles or filters that prevent solids from escaping. It is typically transported to a distribution box, which breaks off into several pipes that lead the water out into a disposal area, also known as a drain field or leach field. This water, which is mostly clean, is then filtered and absorbed into the earth. Oversaturation of the drain field can lead to septic system problems.
If you suspect problems with your septic system or would like to insure it is working properly, schedule a NJ septic inspection with Classic Septic. Classic Septic does not do septic system repairs. We are strictly an inspection company. What that means for you is that you get an honest evaluation of your septic system. We have nothing to gain if your system needs repair or maintenance. We simply inspect your system to help keep your home environment healthy and free of septic hazards.
For more information on septic inspections in NJ, call our team at 973-900-1330.