Septic System Mechanism

There Are 5 Major Parts to a Basic Septic System

1. The pipe coming from the house
2. The septic tank
3. The distribution Box
4. The drain field
5. The soil

The Pipe Coming From the House to the Septic Tank Can Be Made of Several Materials

• Terra Cotta Clay – Used late 1800’s to early 1900’s (100+ yrs.)
• Cast Iron – Used late 1800’s (75 to 100 yrs.)
• Orangeburg – wood fibers and coal tar pitch – Used Mid 1940’s (50+ yrs.)
• Schedule 40 PVC - polyvinyl chloride – Late 1960’s to early 1970’s

The Septic Tank

The septic tank can be made from several different materials including concrete Fiberglass and Polyethylene.

The tank holds water long enough for solids to decompose and settle to the bottom of the tank (sludge), while Fats, Oils and Grease (F.O.G.) float to the top, creating a scum layer.

Components of the Septic Tank

Incoming Tee – made of Cast Iron or PVC

A pipe in the septic tank shaped like a “T” to prevent sewage backflow into the house. Sits higher than the Outgoing Tee

Outgoing Tee – made of Cast Iron or PVCA pipe in the septic tank shaped like a “T” to prevent sludge (solids) and scum from entering the drainfield.

*Sometimes there is a filter on the outgoing “T”

The Distribution Box (D-Box)

Comes in many shapes and sizes usually made of concrete or polyethylene. Has several ports or openings that evenly distributes the effluent water (waste water) to the drainfield. Proper distribution of effluent water to the conveyance lines will extend the life of the drain field.

The Drainfield

The effluent water flows through the conveyance lines penetrating through the ground further filtering the water from diseases and dangerous bacteria.

Keep your drainfield free from trees and scrubs preventing root infiltration.

Don’t drive or park vehicles on the drainfield which could crush conveyance lines.

Prevent drainfield saturation and direct all water flow, downspouts etc. away from the drainfield.

The Soil

The condition of the soil is usually determined by a “perc” test that is performed by a soil Scientist or county official.

The type of septic system installed either conventional or alternative is determined by the soil condition.

Great Service at Competitive Rates

The main goal at Cook's Tank Cleaning Inc is to provide you with an education on your septic system as well as great service at competitive rates. Contact us today to schedule a regular maintenance appointment for your septic tank!