Your waste system requires regular septic tank pumping because over time, the tank fills with solid waste and grease. Wastewater passes through the system and doesn’t stay in the tank, keeping it from filling as quickly. The part of the tank that separates the wastewater from the solids and allows the water out of the tank is called a baffle. Here’s what you need to know about this component and what to do if it starts having problems.

How Do Baffles Work?

A baffle is a barrier that partially covers an opening. In your septic tank, the main baffle is made up of two pieces: one across the top of the tank, dividing it in half, and one across the bottom. As waste enters the tank, it separates. Grease floats to the top, where it’s stopped by the upper barrier, and solids drop to the bottom and are stopped by the lower one. Water passes through the opening in the middle to reach the second half of the tank.

Occasionally, some grease or solids make it past the main baffle, so there is a second filtration system in the pipe leading to the drain field to ensure only water passes. Any leftover components separate to the top and bottom of the tank, just like they did in the first half. During septic tank pumping, your technician will remove all the solids and grease from both halves.

What Are Common Problems With Baffles?

Full Tank

The most common reason for a septic baffle to fail is that the tank is too full. Solids fill up the bottom of the tank, and there’s no more room for waste to separate, so it all washes through. This can overwhelm the filtration system and cause solids to clog the drain field, or it can cause clogs and backups in your home plumbing. The best way to prevent this is with regular septic tank pumping every two to three years.

Corrosion

As sewage breaks down inside your septic tank, it releases corrosive gasses. These can break down a baffle, causing leaks around the edges or even destroying the barrier. These can sometimes be replaced, but if not, you’ll need to replace the whole tank.

Bad Waste in the System

There are smaller baffles around the tank’s intake and outlet to control the direction and force of the wastewater flow. Flushing inappropriate materials like wipes or absorbent products can clog these areas. Dispose of these items in the trash instead, and never put any products other than toilet paper in the toilet.

If you think you may have a damaged septic tank baffle or other broken part, call Transou's Septic Tank Service in Clemmons, NC. They have served residents of Winston-Salem, Kernersville, and Forsyth County for 70 years. These certified in-house inspectors hold a Grade Level IV certification and use the latest equipment, including powerful hydrojet and rooter systems, to clear blocked plumbing. To schedule a visit, call (336) 766-5058 or reach out online.