Below you are illustrations of how most septic tanks are set up.

Waste water from your home flows into the tank. Solids then separate from the liquid. Things such as soap suds and grease, float to the top of the tank to form a scum layer. The baffles prevent the scum layer from exiting into the drain field. The liquids will then go into the drain field (also called fingers) while the heavier solids sink to the bottom. Most of the solids are broken down by bacteria. Solids form a layer of sludge that needs to be pumped out on a regular basis.

The easiest way to protect your septic system is to conserve water use. The less waste water you produce, the less the soil will have to absorb. Repair leaking faucets and toilets. A small drip can add many gallons of unnecessary water to your system every day.

Other useful tips:

• Avoid pouring grease or cooking oils down the drain.
• Minimize use of garbage disposal.
• Have solids pumped out of tank.
• Keep heavy equipment and automobiles off of the system.
• Do not put sanitary napkins, paper towels, wet wipes, kitty litter, disposable diapers, cigarettes, coffee grounds, motor oil, gasoline, paint, condoms, dental floss, excessive amounts of bleach and household cleaners or any other non-degradable items into system. What you put down the drain can have a major impact on how well your system works!
• Avoid building additions, pools, driveways, gravel, concrete, etc near the septic system.
• Keep roof drains and basement sump pump drains away from septic system. Extra water can overload the system.