(770) 922-4358

Understanding Your Septic Tank

Learn how your septic tank functions to identify when maintenance is needed. This knowledge ensures optimal performance.

Four Major Components

Your septic system relies on four key components, each playing a vital role in handling and treating wastewater:
  • The house sewer line transports all waste from your home into the septic tank.
  • The septic tank prepares the waste material for disposal into the leaching system.
  • A distribution box (D-box) may be used to ensure the liquid effluent is spread evenly across the leaching system.
  • The leaching system—which can include drain fields, trenches, pits, beds, or galleries—filters the effluent naturally through soil to remove impurities.

What to Do

  • Conserve water to reduce the amount of wastewater entering the system.
  • Repair leaking faucets and toilets as soon as possible.
  • Only flush biodegradable waste—avoid items like panty liners, cigarette filters, cotton swabs, tampons, condoms, disposable diapers, and other non-biodegradable products.
  • Direct downspouts and surface water away from the septic tank and drain field.
  • Schedule regular septic tank pumping and check for leaks or cracks.
  • Keep septic tank covers accessible for inspections and maintenance.

What Not to Do

  • Do not use a garbage disposal—compost food waste or dispose of it in the trash instead.
  • Never pour solvents, oils, paints, thinners, disinfectants, or pesticides down the drain, as they can disrupt the treatment process and contaminate groundwater.
  • Do not dig in the drain field or build or place structures over any part of the septic system, including the tank.
  • Avoid planting anything over the drain field except grass.
  • Do not drive or park vehicles on the drain field, as soil compaction can block proper wastewater flow.

Common Causes of Septic System Failure

  • Skipping regular inspections and pumping. The State of Georgia recommends pumping your septic tank every three years.
  • Improper use of the system, including flushing non-biodegradable materials or overloading it with water.
  • Poor soil conditions or issues with system design and installation.

Warning Signs to Watch For

  • Excess water pooling in the leaching area
  • Unusually lush or fast-growing grass above the system
  • Persistent odors near the tank or drain fiel
  • Wastewater that is draining slowly from the bathroom or kitchen, or even backing up into the house
If you’re planning to purchase a home, have a licensed septic system specialist like A Pump Away perform a full inspection. Identifying issues early can prevent unexpected expenses. Contact us today for more information.