You might know how your septic system works broadly. First, you flush your toilet or run your shower, and then the wastewater runs into the septic tank buried in your yard. Then, the waste separates from the water and the water returns to the groundwater system deep underground. But do you know the science behind how your septic system works?
Millions of microorganisms in your septic tank and the surrounding area make this system possible. Without these organisms, your septic tank would fill too quickly and wreak havoc on your home and lawn. Below, the Johnson Septic Service team introduces you to some of your septic system’s microbes and explains how they work!
Biology 101: Meet The Microbes In Your Septic System
Nematodes
These microscopic worms live in the drain field, breaking down waste and providing oxygen to the leach field. They also eat harmful bacteria and open the drain field, allowing your septic tank to drain thoroughly.
Bacteria
Aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in your septic tank “eat” the solid waste, leaving behind wastewater. Because anaerobic bacteria don’t need oxygen, they are most common in the septic tank, whereas aerobic bacteria are more common in the drain field.
Fungi
When you hear “fungi,” you might think of mushrooms. But fungi include mold and yeast. Fungi are common in the area surrounding the septic system and help absorb some of the gases released by bacteria.
Protozoa
Protozoa are single-celled microorganisms that break down and eat organic materials. The most common protozoa in septic systems are ciliates and amoebae. Protozoa eat harmful bacteria that can enter the system via wastewater and crowd out the good bacteria.
How These Microorganisms Make Your System Work
Now that you’ve encountered some microorganisms in your septic system, let’s examine how they digest waste and create safe, healthy water underground.
- Treatment in the tank: First, wastewater from your sinks, toilets, washing machine and dishwasher enter the septic tank. There, the solid waste sinks to the bottom of the tank. This layer of solid waste is known as sludge, while the oils and fats on the top of the water are known as scum. Anaerobic bacteria begin eating the sludge. The bacteria digest it, releasing simple gases and liquids.
- Separation: Once the anaerobic bacteria have eaten the sludge, liquid from the tank slowly flows through the septic pipes. The pipes have holes, allowing the water to leak into the surrounding ground. There, the remaining solid waste is captured by rocks, preventing it from reaching the groundwater below.
- Filtration: As the water flows through the ground, additional bacteria further break down any materials in it. Microorganisms in the soil then break down organic compounds and pathogens, releasing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous. The soil absorbs these nutrients, which can lead to flourishing plant and fungi growth in the area above the leech field.
Schedule Septic Service Today
Sometimes, the great bacteria in your septic system need additional help. If you notice clogs or slow drains in your home, it might be time to get your septic system pumped. Additionally, consider adding Bio-Tabs to your septic system. These tabs sink to the bottom of your tank and help the bacteria digest the sludge. Whatever your septic system needs, Johnson Septic Service has the skills, tools and professionals to get it functioning at its best. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance!