Here's how your septic system processes water by working together with nature.

Some systems may need to use a pump to move wastewater; however, whenever the terrain allows it, a gravity-fed system is typically preferred.

Another way the septic system uses gravity is by collecting the wastewater in a large tank and then allowing it to settle until the solids separate out from the liquids. This settling allows the tank to then mechanically separate the liquids to send them off to the leach field.

You should also know that although bacteria are important, they're not the only type of microbes that work to treat the water in the tank. Others include:

All these microscopic creatures work together along with the bacteria to help break down the wastes in your wastewater.

Another commonly misunderstood point is that a lot of the wastewater treatment actually takes place in your septic system's leach field. One of the main functions of the leach field is to allow bacteria to feast on the contaminants in your wastewater. The system of perforated pipes under the surface of the leach field allows both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria to work.

The bacteria growing in and around the pipes form a slimy mat called a biofilm that allows both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria to live and work together. The aerobic bacteria live on the outer surface of the film, where they can access the air they need. The anaerobic bacteria hide out on the inside of the film, since air exposure would be deadly to them.

The filtration by this layer of soil is critical to avoid groundwater contamination. That's why any building site needs to have soil that's deep enough and has the right amount of permeability. Soil that's too shallow or that allows water through too easily won't provide enough filtration.

Sites with very high water tables (groundwater close to the surface) may require a septic mound. The mound adds depth to the amount of soil available for filtration by raising the leach field pipes.

These are some of the top ways your septic system uses natural processes and forces to treat your home's wastewater. As you can see, the system only works if every part of it is healthy, from the main drain line exiting your house all the way to the gravel bed and topsoil around your leach field pipes.

Roto-Rooter Sewer Service provides septic services to keep your entire septic system healthy. We can clean your drains and pipes, inspect your septic system for problems, pump out your septic tank, and repair any issues that could reduce wastewater treatment efficacy. Get in touch today to learn more.