BLOG The Journey of Waste: Understanding Your Septic System's Inner Workings Jul 23, 2025

Understanding how your septic system functions can provide valuable insight into its importance and maintenance requirements. At Jones Septic Tank Service, we're often asked about what occurs once waste leaves your home. Let's take a closer look at the journey of waste and the inner workings of your septic system.

Your septic system is an underground wastewater treatment structure, typical in areas without centralized sewer systems. These systems use a combination of nature and technology to treat wastewater from your household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry. Understanding this process is crucial for effective septic system maintenance and preventing costly repairs.

The waste journey begins once water and waste exit your home through a single main drainage pipe, into the septic tank. Your septic tank is a watertight container buried underground made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. Its purpose is to hold waste long enough to allow solids to settle down to the bottom forming sludge, while oil and grease float to the top as scum. Compartments and a T-shaped outlet prevent the sludge and scum from leaving the tank and traveling to the drain field, which is an essential part of the system's efficiency.

Next, the liquid wastewater, or effluent, exits the tank into the drain field. This area is a shallow, covered excavation made in unsaturated soil. As the wastewater releases onto porous surfaces in the drain field, it percolates through the soil, effectively treated by natural processes along its journey. The soil, a natural filter, enables the wastewater to be treated as it percolates through, eventually reaching groundwater.

A well-maintained septic system not only guides waste on its journey effectively but also protects your home and environment. The dangers of an overloaded drain field highlight the importance of regular maintenance. When the drain field gets full, excess liquid flows to the surface of the ground, or it backs up in toilets and sinks. This not only poses health risks but can also lead to expensive repairs.

Regular inspection and pumping are critical to ensuring your septic system remains in good working condition. The experts at Jones Septic Tank Service recommend having your system inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Depending on the size of your household, total wastewater generated, volume of solids in wastewater, and the size of your septic tank, your system may need to be pumped every three to five years.

Conserving water wisely, efficiently using your waste disposal, and protecting your drain field are essential elements of septic system care. High-efficiency toilets, faucet aerators, and shower flow restrictors can aid in minimizing overuse of water. Avoiding chemical drain cleaners and overuse of heavy cleaners supports a healthy microbial community in your tank, essential to proper digestion of solids.

While it may seem daunting to understand the complexities of your septic system, knowing how your system operates can empower you to care for it wisely. When a septic system is correctly installed and maintained, it provides effective, efficient waste treatment. Letting Jones Septic Tank Service partner with you ensures your system works optimally, safeguarding both your health and the environment.

By following these steps, you not only prolong the life of your septic system but also gain peace of mind. Remember, a little prevention and care go a long way in waste management. Trust in our experience and commitment to excellent septic service—because your waste, and our service, matters.