...

A typical septic tank is about 4 feet wide, 8 feet long, and 6 feet tall. This size is needed to handle the waste from a home. In places where many use septic systems, there are many businesses that remove and treat septic waste.

But where does all that septic waste go? Laws at the federal and state levels strictly control how septic sludge is disposed of. This is because dumping it in landfills is bad for health and the environment. Instead, it goes to municipal wastewater plants or to companies that treat septage.

Septage can also go to approved landfills, but this is rare and follows strict rules. Sometimes, it’s even turned into fertilizer for crops. However, this is a topic of debate because of health and environmental concerns.

Understanding the Septic System Process

Septic systems are vital for homes and businesses not hooked up to a city sewer. They handle and treat all wastewater from your drains. This ensures it’s disposed of properly and reduces harm to the environment. Let’s dive into how a septic system works and its main parts.

Wastewater Flow and Separation

Wastewater flows into the septic tank from your property through pipes. Inside, it splits into three layers: sludge, effluent, and scum. Sludge, the solid waste, goes to the bottom. Effluent, the liquid part, moves to the drain field for more treatment. Scum, with grease and oil, floats on top.

The Role of Septic Tanks

The septic tank is key in treating wastewater. It holds back solid waste, letting the liquid effluent go to the drain field. There, it slowly absorbs into the soil. Septic tanks might have special parts like inlet baffles and filters to improve treatment.

Conventional Septic SystemConstructed Wetland System
Processes most wastewater pollutants in the septic drain fieldRemoves pollutants in the advanced unit before returning wastewater to the environment
Suitable for properties with adequate soil and spaceIdeal for properties with limited space, shallow or impermeable soil, and sensitive environments
Percentage of nitrogen reduction: 5%Percentage of nitrogen reduction: 55% to 80%

Septic System Waste Disposal Options

septic tank

There are a few ways to dispose of septic system waste. Over 80% of this waste is put on land, often in farmland far away. Some places send the waste to a public treatment plant with other wastewater. A few private places also treat septage. Let’s take a closer look here.

Land Application

Commercial farms use sewage as fertilizer, saying it helps them and communities. But, this method worries people because the effluent might have bad chemicals or germs. These could pollute nearby streams or underground water.

Wastewater Treatment Plants

Some areas send septic waste to public wastewater treatment plants. There, it mixes with wastewater from the municipal sewer system. Then, it goes through the plant’s process before being released or reused.

Septage Receiving Stations

There are a few private septic disposal facilities too. They focus on treating septage from septic tanks and drain fields. This way, the waste is handled safely for the environment.

Conclusion

septic tank services

Septic systems are key to managing wastewater and protecting our environment. They are vital whether you have a septic tank or use a public sewer. Working with a trusted provider like Stellar Plumbing ensures our waste is handled right and meets local laws.

When septic systems work well, they keep our water clean and safe to drink. But if they’re not looked after, they can pollute our water and harm the environment. This can lead to problems like harmful pollutants in our water.

At Stellar Plumbing, we aim to help our clients keep their septic systems in good shape. Our septic tank specialists can handle everything from regular pumping to big repairs. Together, we can protect our natural resources and work towards a healthier future. Contact us today!