Conventional septic systems
A conventional onsite wastewater system, which is also known as a “septic system” is an individual wastewater treatment system that uses the soil to treat small waste water flows. They are typically found in a rural area or in residential neighborhoods with large acreage lots (usually 3 acres or more) or other areas where public sewers are not available. All septic systems are individually designed for the specific site, but most are based on the same principles, according to the most referred Fort Worth septic system professionals.
A conventional septic system is made up of a septic tank (with baffles and possibly an effluent filter), a distribution box, a soil absorption field (also called the drain field), and various connecting pipes and distribution connections. The septic tank allows the heavy solids and the lighter scum materials in the wastewater to separate from the liquids. The function of the tank is to hold the solid waste material and prevent it from reaching the soil absorption field. The solids in the tank are partially decomposed by bacteria and the rest is later removed by “pumping” the septic tank. Treatment of the wastewater occurs in both the septic tank and the absorption field.
Visual and destructive septic inspection
The visual septic dye test is combined with “pushing” the waste system. This test involves the running of 3 plumbing fixtures simultaneously for 30-45 minutes to see if there are any slow-draining fixtures, backups, or surface breakouts. It also involves flushing colored dye into the waste lines looking for leaks. This type of test is acceptable to most lenders and is the most affordable, says, the Fort Worth septic system experts.
Why septic systems fail:
Tip #1 A lack of maintenance (tanks should be cleaned by pumping every 3-5 years);
Tip #2 Improper design or construction (amateur installations) not sized or designed properly;
Tip #3 Physical damage (driving, paving, or building on top of the onsite wastewater system);
Tip #4 Excess water (sump pumps, downspouts, and foundation tiles) should not drain to the tank;
Tip #5 Altering the system or house (add-ons can change what the system was designed for);
PLUMBING TRADE SECRETS: The destructive septic inspection involves excavating the tank, opening the access ports to look into the tank, opening the distribution box, using a rod to measure the levels of the scum and solid wastes in the tank, and in many instances, it involves pumping the tank if the baffles and filter are not visible.