5 FAQs Regarding Septic Systems

If you live in a rural area, you more than likely have a septic system. If you don't know whether or not your property has a septic system or a sewer, there are some ways to know for sure.

09.20.2018

If you live in a rural area, you more than likely have a septic system. If you don't know whether or not your property has a septic system or a sewer, there are some ways to know for sure.

If you have an odd-looking hill somewhere on your property, a septic tank is probably underneath. Most septic tanks are located at least 10 feet away from the house. If other people in your area have their own septic system, you probably do too.

One way to know for sure is by contacting your municipal government. Some people who have never had a septic system before might have some questions as to what they are and how they work. Here are the answers to five frequently asked questions regarding septic systems.

When you create wastewater in your home, it needs somewhere to go. Instead of going through a sewer system, the wastewater gets deposited into your septic tank, which is located underground. Using a combination of nature and technology, the wastewater that gets produced from the plumbing system in your home is treated and then released back into the environment.

Septic systems are made up of a few main parts, including:

• Septic tank — an airtight container located underground
• Drainfield — the area that wastewater gets emptied into after leaving the septic tank
• Soil absorption field — where harmful bacteria gets removed from the water

Another component is the pipe in which wastewater from your indoor plumbing system goes into the septic tank.

Ideally, homeowners with noticeable hard water will buy a water softener to fix the problem. A plumber usually installs a water softener. Water softeners need a regular supply of sodium to keep water soft, so homeowners have to refill the sodium in their water softener regularly. 

Once you install a water softener, then the hard water scale can be removed. Most hard water stains can be removed through exposure to vinegar. Soaking dishes in a tub of vinegar for several hours can soften the cloudy film on the glass so that you can wipe the stain away.

For plumbing fixtures, attach a bag filled with vinegar onto the affected faucet or showerhead, and then leave the vinegar hanging on the plumbing faucet. Once you remove the film, you can scrub it away. 

If you see sewage bubbling up in your drainfield or you notice an awful smell, this might be a sign that something is wrong with your septic system. Other signs of having a problem with your septic system include:

• Wastewater is backing up into household drains
• Drainfield has bright green grass over it
• Muddy soil is around your septic system
• Gurgling noises are coming from your plumbing system
• Drains empty slowly

If you notice any of these things, get your septic system inspected as soon as possible.

If you do need your septic system repaired or if you have any other questions regarding your septic system , simply call the experienced plumbers at O'Fallon Sewer Service. We are happy to address your questions and help you stay on top of septic system maintenance.

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