Glossary of Terms
Effluent
The liquid waste that flows out of the septic tank after treatment.
Sludge
The bottom layer of solids that settles in a septic tank.
Influent
The raw wastewater that enters the septic system from the household.
Hydraulic Load
The volume of wastewater that enters the septic system over a specific time period.
Retention Time
The average time wastewater remains in the septic tank during the treatment process.
Design Capacity
The maximum daily volume of wastewater a septic system is designed to handle.
Maintenance
Percolation Test
A test that measures how quickly water drains through soil, used to determine drain field suitability.
Pumping
The regular removal of accumulated sludge and scum from the septic tank by a professional.
Inspection
Regular professional examination of the septic system components to ensure proper function.
Load Reduction
Practices to minimize strain on the septic system, such as water conservation and proper waste disposal.
System Monitoring
Regular checking of septic system performance indicators to prevent problems.
Field Rotation
Alternating between different sections of the drain field to prevent soil saturation and extend system life.
Components
Septic Tank
An underground chamber that collects and processes wastewater from households not connected to municipal sewer systems.
Drain Field
Also known as a leach field, this area of perforated pipes allows treated wastewater to slowly filter into the soil.
Baffle
A device inside the septic tank that prevents scum and solids from leaving the tank and entering the drain field.
Scum Layer
The top layer in a septic tank containing lighter materials like oils and grease.
Pump Chamber
A separate tank that pumps effluent to the drain field when gravity flow isn’t possible.
Distribution Box
A component that ensures even distribution of effluent throughout the drain field.
Processes
Biomat
A layer of biological material that forms naturally in the drain field and helps filter wastewater.
Anaerobic Digestion
The biological process where bacteria break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen within the septic tank.
Infiltration
The process of treated wastewater slowly seeping into the soil through the drain field.
Settling
The natural process where solid waste sinks to the bottom of the septic tank forming sludge.
Flotation
The process where lighter materials rise to form the scum layer at the top of the septic tank.
Biological Treatment
The natural process where bacteria break down harmful pathogens and organic matter in the wastewater.