There are still many homes around Lake Norman that do not have city sewer service. Instead, these homes have septic systems to get rid of waste. I would like to familiarize you with the types of systems, and how to maintain them in this post.
There are many kinds of septic systems, but most are a conventional or modified conventional system. This type of system has a septic tank and a drain field with two to six gravel-filled trenches. Other types of systems include a pump to conventional systems, pressure manifold systems, low pressure pipe systems and aerobic treatment unit systems. These types of septic systems normally have pumps, electrical floats and controls, alarms or other mechanical parts.
The septic system separates the solids contained in the sewage from the liquids. The soil must be porous enough to absorb the septic tank discharge. The capacity of the soil to absorb liquids is measured by a percolation test reading (or perk test as it is often called). This test is performed by the Health Department who determines how many bedrooms a new house can have. If the soil “perks” for a four bedroom home, then the house should legally only be built having four bedrooms.
To properly maintain a septic system, it is important to know the location of the septic tank and drainfield. It should ideally be pumped every two to three years to clean it out. Other things to keep in mind include:
- Don’t cover absorption field with extra fill, driveways, swimming pools, or decks.
- Don’t drive a car or heavy equipment over the tank or field because the pipes will be crushed.
- Don’t plant any trees or bushes at or near the system since the roots will clog the system.
- Don’t use the toilet as a garbage disposal.
- Repair leaking toilets and dripping faucets so the system isn’t overloaded with extra water.
- Limit the use of the garbage disposal and don’t put grease, cooking oil, coffee grinds, egg shells etc. in it.
Following these simple rules regarding the maintenance and operation of the septic tank system will keep problems to a minimum. A minimum amount of care will result in many years of trouble-free operation.
