Comprehensive Guide to Septic Systems: How They Work, Components, and Maintenance

What is a Septic System?

Septic systems are on-site wastewater treatment solutions commonly used in rural or suburban areas where municipal sewer systems are unavailable. These systems rely on natural processes and engineered components to treat and dispose of household wastewater.

Core Components of a Septic System:

A standard septic system includes the following key components:

Septic Tank: A buried, watertight container typically made of concrete or plastic. Less common materials include fiberglass or steel.
Leaching Bed (Drain Field): A network of perforated pipes or tiles buried in trenches filled with gravel or sand that distribute wastewater into the soil.
Soil: The final treatment medium that filters and processes effluent, removing impurities before the water reaches groundwater.

How a Septic System Works: Step-by-Step

1. Wastewater Collection:

All household wastewater from toilets, showers, and sinks flows directly into the septic tank. Clean water sources such as downspouts and sump pumps should bypass the septic system.

1. Anaerobic Pre-Treatment in the Septic Tank:

In the septic tank, solids settle to the bottom (sludge), while fats and oils float to the top (scum). A middle layer of partially treated liquid (effluent) exits the tank, passing through an effluent filter if installed.

1. Effluent Distribution and Soil Filtration:

Effluent is distributed through perforated pipes in the leaching bed. As the liquid percolates through the soil, bacteria and microorganisms break down organic material, filter impurities, and remove pathogens before reaching groundwater.

Advanced Treatment Septic Systems:

For areas with poor soil conditions, high water tables, or limited space, advanced septic systems are required. These include:

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs): Use oxygen to promote bacterial breakdown of waste. Examples:
- Bionest
- Norweco Hydro-Kinetic
Filtration Units: Utilize peat moss or foam to filter wastewater. Examples:
- Waterloo Biofilter
- Ecoflo
Geotextile Sand Filters: Use geotextile materials to enhance bacterial growth and effluent filtration. Examples:
- Enviroseptic
- Eljen

Ontario Septic System Classifications:

Septic systems are classified under the Ontario Building Code as:

Class 1: Basic privies (outhouses).
Class 2: Greywater systems (treat sink and shower wastewater).
Class 3: Cesspools (minimal treatment).
Class 4: Conventional septic systems (treat all domestic wastewater).
Class 5: Holding tanks (require regular pumping, no treatment).

Septic System Maintenance:

Proper maintenance extends the lifespan and efficiency of septic systems. Key practices include:

Pumping and Inspections: Pump the tank every 3-5 years and conduct annual inspections.
Avoid Harmful Substances: Do not flush chemicals, oils, or non-biodegradable materials.
Protect the Leaching Bed: Avoid parking, planting trees, or building structures over the bed to prevent damage.

Signs of Septic System Failure:

Watch for these warning signs to prevent major issues:

Slow drains or gurgling sounds
Sewage backups
Foul odors around the tank or leaching bed
Soggy or unusually green patches in the yard

Get Started with your Septic Project:

If you’re in need of septic services, trust the experts who understand local soil conditions and septic system requirements. Contact us today for a consultation or to schedule a soil assessment.

Contact Us Today:

Phone: 905-304-7114 Email: office@alphaex.ca