Civil Engineering
Below is a list of frequently asked questions as well as other valuable information regarding civil engineering. If you have a question that you cannot find below, please contact us and we'll be happy to help you!
What does a septic system consist of?
How does a septic system work?
How do I properly care for my septic system?
What will happen if my system is not properly cared for?
How do I know if my septic system is failing?
What does a septic system consist of?
A septic system consists of a septic tank, a distribution box and a soil absorption system, all connected by pipes, called conveyance lines.
How does a septic system work?
Your septic system treats your household wastewater by temporarily holding it in the septic tank where heavy solids and lighter scum are allowed to separate from the wastewater. This separation process is known as primary treatment. The solids stored in the tank are decomposed by bacteria and later removed, along with the lighter scum, by a professional septic tank pumper. After the partially treated wastewater leaves the tank, it flows into a distribution box, which separates this flow evenly into a soil absorption system. Drainage holes at the bottom of each line allow the wastewater to drain into sewer gravel for temporary storage. This effluent then slowly seeps into the subsurface soil where it is further treated and purified (secondary treatment).
How do I properly care for my septic system?
The accumulated solids in the bottom of the septic tank should be pumped out when they reach to 1/3 the height o the septic tank, approximately 3 years, to prolong the life of your system. Septic systems must be maintained regularly to continue working.
What will happen if my system is not properly cared for?
Neglect or abuse of your septic system can cause it to fail. Failing septic systems can:
- Cause a serious health threat to your family and neighbors
- Degrade the environment, especially lakes, streams and ground water
- Reduce the value of your property
- Be very expensive to repair
- Put thousands of water supply users at risk if you live in a public water supply watershed and fail to maintain your system.
How do I know if my septic system is failing?
Be alert to these warning signs of a failing system:
- Sewage surfacing over the soil absorption system (especially after storms)
- Sewage back-ups in the house
- Lush, green growth over the soil absorption system
- Slow draining toilets and drains
- Sewage odors.