Getting A New Septic Tank? Tips To Protect The Drainfield
Posted on: 24 January 2019
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If you are having a new septic tank installed on your property, you know how expensive this can be. Because of this, you need to take steps to keep the septic tank protected and in good condition. One way to do this is to protect the drainfield. Below is information about what a drainfield is, as well as what you can do to keep it protected and in good condition.
Drainfield
The drainfield is the area that is directly above your septic tank. You will also hear this area referred to as the leach field.
The wastewater that is produced by your home consists of grey water, which is water that comes from your laundry, sink, and shower. There is also black water, which is water that comes from your garbage disposal and toilet. This water flows from your homes plumbing system into the underground septic tank. The black water, which has solids and is also known as sludge, settles to the bottom of the tank, and the grey water floats to the top of the tank.
Between the two layers of water is an area that has liquid effluent, which helps the black water stay settled at the bottom of the tank. The grey water is forced to leave the septic tank and flows out to the drainfield. The drainfield itself consists of either rock-filled trenches or a series of chambers. The water flows slowly from the trenches or chambers though the soil.
Drainfield Maintenance
Do not drive over the drainfield with any type of vehicle, as this will compact the soil, making it difficult for the water to flow though the soil. If this happens, the water will get backed up, causing problems with the septic tank.
Do not plant trees near the drainfield. This is because the roots from the trees will spread out. When this happens, the roots will reach the pipes and cause the pipes to crack or break. This would be a very expensive repair, as the pipes would have to be either repaired or replaced.
You should also watch for problems with the drainfield. For example, if you notice the grass over the drainfield is greener than in other areas of your yard, this is a sign that too much water is flowing out of the soil.
If you notice the surrounding area of the drainfield has standing water or is mushy and wet, this is a sign that you have a leak in the water pipes. If there are pipe problems, you will smell a sewage odor near the drainfield.
Talk with the contractor that installs your septic tank for more tips on caring and maintaining the drainfield. Resources like http://www.southernsanitarysystems.com can help.