The purpose of a septic tank is to treat waste water such as: body wastes, kitchen waste, laundry, and bath water. The minimal use of bleaches, detergents, and soaps does not harm the septic system. As waste enters the tank, solids settle to the bottom, where natural occurring bacterial processes reduce and break the solids down. Liquid wastes and scum rise to the top of the tank, where a baffle or outlet filter retain them in the tank. Liquids flow under the baffle, or through the filter to the distribution system and then are absorbed into the soil and treated by the soil.
To operate properly, a septic system must be designed and constructed to suit the individual needs of the homeowner or business. Criteria such as number of family members and daily water usage impact the sizing of the system. An under sized system can result in numerous problems such as premature failure of the drain field, odor, sewage back-ups, and expense. It is very important to maintain your septic system so that it continues to function properly.