What Is a Septic Tank, and How to Tell It's in Need of Repair in Armonk NY
If you are purchasing or building a home that will have a septic tank for waste removal, understanding how the system works can help to keep it in excellent working order. These tips can alert you to how well your Armonk, NY, septic system is functioning so that you can keep it in tip-top shape.
Related: When Is The Right Time For Septic Repair And Septic Installation In Chappaqua NY?
What is a septic tank?
While most people are familiar with a sewage system to remove the waste from a home, many are not acquainted with a septic system which does the same thing. Frequently used in areas outside of a city, in rural areas, and in areas where the terrain does not allow for a municipal sewage system, a septic tank is actually an amazing waste system.
When you flush your toilet or wash dishes, the water and waste must go somewhere. In a septic system, the waste flows through the pipes and into an air-tight tank that is buried under the ground of your yard. Once there, the waste separates into layers. The lowest layer is the solids which settle at the bottom to be decomposed naturally by beneficial bacteria and microorganisms. The middle layer is the water which flows out through a pipe to filter back into the ground. The last layer floats on the top and is composed of grease and oils that don’t decompose.
The most amazing thing about a septic tank is that it works reliably with absolutely no power and simply by the force of gravity, making it a very environmentally friendly waste solution.
How do you know when the septic system needs repair?
When you take good care of your septic system, repairs are seldom necessary but there can be times when you need professional assessment.
Slow Drains: If you notice that your drains have standing water or are taking too long to empty, this can be a sign that you need repair. It could just be a clog but it could also be that there is something hindering the out-flow. At times pipes can become clogged from things that should not be flushed such as baby diapers or wipes, feminine products, cooking grease, and kitty litter.
Bad Smell: Because system is air-tight, you should never smell any sewage but if you do, that can indicate a problem. When you smell a foul odor, you need a septic expert to evaluate the system.
Bright, Green Grass: If you notice bright, green grass growing leaps and bounds over the rest of the yard, this clump of grass can indicate that there is a leak in the pipe underneath. At times, a tree root can grow into the tiniest little crack to expand the opening so that the waste water is coming out into the ground at this location.
Drain Backups: If your toilet overflows when it is flushed or the washing machine backs up during a routine washing, this can be another indication that your septic system might need repair.
If you suspect that your septic system is not functioning the way it should or you recognize any of the signs of problems, contact a septic professional right away. They have the expertise to evaluate your Armonk, NY, system before removing any dirt to ensure that you have the right solution for the issue.