Septic Tanks

 Septic  tanks are sewage-disposal tanks in which anaerobic bacteria decompose a continuous flow of waste material. These tanks are part of small-scale sewage treatment systems often referred to as septic systems. Septic tank systems were first introduced in the United States in the mid 1880's, as two chamber automatic siphoning tank systems, similar in concept to those used nowadays.

A typical septic tank is water tight and divided into two semi-compartments (chambers), usually built in brick or stone and latterly concrete. Fiberglass, steel or plastic tanks are also available. A well-designed and maintained tank system should last around 50 years.

The chambers of the septic tank have two pipes, the input pipe (from the dwelling) and the output pipe (to the leach field). In the septic tank, solid parts such as soap scum or fat in the untreated wastewater float to the top of the tank to form a scum layer, and heavier solids (primarily feces) sink to the bottom of the tank as sludge. Anaerobic bacteria in the tank help the system to digest sludge. The remaining liquids stream out of the tank to the leach field. Baffles installed at the inlet and outlet of the septic tanks, hold back the floating scum from moving past the outlet of the chamber.

Among the various septic tanks available, spherical septic tanks are most popular because these systems can be made quickly, delivered rapidly to site, and placed in the ground easily.

Septic tank systems that are not functioning properly cause serious environmental and human health problems. Various laws have been passed to help prevent the problems the septic tanks can cause. It is essential to verify that the septic tank one installs in one?s property is in keeping with the legal requirements. Even though the septic tank is out of sight, it should not be out of mind.



Fish Tanks provides detailed information on Tanks, Fish Tanks, Dunk Tanks, Septic Tanks and more. Fish Tanks is affiliated with Tankless Electric Water Heaters.