A septic tank is a form of small scale sewage treatment that
is installed in the homes of buildings that do not have a connection to the
main sewage line. There are different types of septic tanks which vary
depending on the size. Nonetheless, they are very useful as they help to clean
the water.
Traditional Septic System
A septic tanks consists of a tank that is dug underground and
is either made of concrete, PVC or plastic. Other materials that can be used to
make sewage water include fiberglass and brickwork. The treatment process
occurs in the septic tank system where the effluent flows through a series of
perforated pipes that is buried underground.
Bacteria
The sewage that is incoming contains both aerobic and
septic bacteria together with other organic materials. The primary goal is
to break down waste water into simpler effluent material. Aerobic bacteria is
the most efficient and desirable bacteria in that it can reduce the waste water
in the incoming sewage by up to %90. They work best in the presence of oxygen
hence the need for aerating the systems. Anaerobic bacteria on the other hand
do not require oxygen but rather reduce water by up to %60.
Modern Septic Systems
Unlike tradition septic tanks, modern septic tanks have aerobic septic tablets. The treatment process involves the
use of chlorine and aeration. Chlorination is used solely for disinfectant
purposes when the effluent is distributed above ground.
Most of the modern septic tanks are often equipped with
alarms that monitor the buildup of hydrogen sulfide gas. In case of a problem
it should be addressed immediately. Chlorine for septic systems should be addressed as per the manufacturer’s
requirements. Keep in mind that excess chlorine is not recommended as it can
reduce the quality of the water.
