Septic Systems 101

How Does Your Septic Tank Operate?

The tank's job is to protect your drain field or other components from becoming clogged by solids suspended in wastewater.

• Lighter solids such as grease, oils and toilet tissue form the scum layer.
• Heavier solids and decomposed waste fall to the bottom to form a sludge layer.
• A solid outlet baffle and regular cleaning ensure a nominal amount of solids enter your drain field.
• See below for a cross-section of a septic tank that is due for service based on the level of scum and sludge.

Any further questions? Call Tidewater Septic Service LLC at (443) 566-2048.

How Does Your Drain Field Operate?

• Drain fields are constructed in permeable soils.
• Trenches are excavated and filled with stone. Perforated pipe is laid on top of the stone and is then covered with a few more inches of stone.
• Geo fabric is used to cover the stone so that dirt and debris do not infiltrate the drain field when it is backfilled.
• Grey water leaves the tank, flows through the perforated pipe, filters through several feet of stone and then percolates through the soil that lies beneath the stone.