How Septic Systems Work

     Understanding how Septic Systems work can be helpful in being able to take care of it. A properly working Septic System can make life less stressful.
     Septic Systems are composed of two components, the Septic Tank and the Drainfield (also called a Leachfield). All the wastewater flows out of the house into the Tank. The Tank is a holding place for all this waste. The solids that are in the wastewater break down and sink to the bottom. The clean water is then able to flow out into the Drainfield. The Drainfield allow this water to soak back into the ground. This is why the Drainfield must be kept up out of the water table.
     It is important to note that a Septic Tank stays mostly full of water. The water enters at a point that is approximately 2 inches higher than where it exits.
    

Caring for Septic Systems

​     There are items that should not be put in a Septic System. This includes cooking oil and grease, oily soaps, and baby wipes. These do not break down. They can build up the tank. This leads to clogged plumbing and, a very unpleasant experience.
     It is important to protect the drainfield too. It is not good to drive over it with heavy equipment or vehicles. This will compact the soil and can damage the drainfield material. Also, tree roots can plug up the drainfield lines. The best thing to do is keep trees far away from the Septic System.  

Servicing Septic Systems

​Just like vehicles need to be serviced in order to run smoothly, good service helps a Septic System function better. ​

Clean the Filter

Since 1999, filters have been required. They are placed in a tee-assembly at the outlet end of the tank. They should be pulled out and washed off with a water hose every year or two.

Pump the Tank

It is recommended by the state of Florida that Tanks should be pumped out every 3-5 years. Yoder Septic Service is ready and able to help. Call for pricing and schedules.