When you don’t have access to municipal sewage, a professionally installed septic system can safely handle your household’s waste. As the property owner, you manage these systems, so you must be familiar with how they work. If you’re new to the concept, consider this brief guide on different septic system parts, what they do, and what problems they may encounter.  

5 Components of a Septic System & What They Do

1. Plumbing Vent

This pipe extends vertically from the roof. It allows air to enter the sewage line to ensure waste moves in the right direction. If your toilet is gurgling or there’s a strong sewage smell in the bathroom, the plumbing vent may be clogged and allowing gases to enter the home.

2. Sewage Line

All household waste will travel through the sewage line—a series of pipes that extend from under the home to the exterior where the septic system is buried. If this line becomes clogged, you may experience frequent backups or slow drainage. For this reason, it’s important to avoid flushing anything that isn’t septic-safe—such as paper towels and cotton swabs.

3. Septic Tank

The sewage line connects to a watertight collection vessel—usually made of concrete, plastic, or fiberglass—known as the septic tank.

Here, solid waste sinks to the bottom of the tank while scum rises to the top. Bacteria in the tank help break down these materials so they can exit the system.

Every few years, you should invest in professional septic tank pumping to remove solid waste build-up. If too much waste collects, the tank may overflow and cause backups.

4. Distribution Box

Once processed wastewater exits the tank, it flows through a distribution box. This box ensures that fluids are spread evenly throughout the drainfield trenches.

If soil shifts around the distribution box, the flow may be reversed and send wastewater back into the tank. If any part of the box is broken or clogged, fluids may pool in unwanted areas of the lawn.

5. Drainfield

The drainfield consists of several perforated pipes buried under the soil. Wastewater gradually exits these pipes and is filtered by layers of sand and gravel within the drainfield.

If you notice a sewage odor in your yard or see unusually fertile plants in the area, have a professional septic service inspect the drainfield. In these situations, the pipes or soil may be compromised so that wastewater isn’t properly distributed.

If septic system issues have you worried, turn to S & S Pumping in Forsyth, MO. Equipped with advanced tools, this contractor can identify and repair problems affecting any system components—including the septic tank and drainfield. These professionals can also take on septic installation projects and provide routine maintenance to ensure your home is outfitted with reliable sewage solutions. Visit this local business online for more details about the septic services they provide throughout the Greater Branson Tri-Lakes area. If you’d like to schedule pumping, repairs, or installation, call (417) 546-2390.