Your septic system is designed to direct wastewater away from your home for treatment and reintroduction to the water table that supplies your household. The drain field plays a significant role in the later stages of the process. Here’s what you should know about how it works, how to identify a drain field clogged with impurities, and how problems are resolved.

How Does a Drain Field Work?

The drain field consists of a series of subterranean pipes featuring strategic perforations. It's situated to the side of the septic tank, and its role is to eliminate the impurities in the liquid effluent. 

The standard drain field has multiple trenches measuring several feet deep. After wastewater from your home is broken down in the septic tank into three distinct layers, the effluent separated from solids and scum exits the tank and travels to the drain field via the perforated pipes.

As the effluent flows through the pipes, it trickles through the openings into an aggregate layer situated just below. From there, the effluent travels further down to the soil, where any remaining contaminants and bacteria are filtered out. The water then reenters the ground supply.

How Can You Tell if It’s Faulty?

The drain field is vulnerable to failure when it isn’t well-maintained. A drain field clogged with unwelcome particulates may produce unusual gurgling noises in the home. You may also notice that sink and toilet drains are slower. 

In more severe cases, a drain field clogged with sewage might produce harsh odors in the vicinity of the septic tank or the field itself. You might also discover standing water or soft, spongy grass that looks brighter and lusher than the surrounding landscape. This is a sign that the ground is being “overfertilized” with contaminants in the effluent. 

A technician will evaluate the problem and consider various solutions, such as excavating the area and adding fresh soil or injecting air into the compacted soil. In some instances, it might be necessary to relocate the drain field. 

Are you concerned about a possible problem with your drain field? Contact Transou’s Septic Tank Service in Clemmons, NC. Since 1952, they've provided homeowners with septic tank maintenance and drain field repairs. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (336) 765-1161 to schedule an appointment.