Trusted Septic Tank Services in Winston-salem, NC

This is the simplest type of subsurface wastewater treatment and disposal system. A cesspool is common for homes built prior to 1930. The system consists of a pit that has been constructed out of fieldstone or concrete block. Sewage enters the pit through the building sewer. The liquid level in the pit rises while water is added. The water level drops as water flows out of the cesspool and into the surrounding soil. Cesspools are normally quite deep, and the pressure from the water column within the pit forces water through the openings into the soil.

You should pump your septic tank every 2 - 3 years under normal circumstances. If you have a large family, you will want to pump the septic tank more often to prevent solids from flowing out of the tank and fouling the disposal field.

The primary function of the septic tank is to separate liquids from solids. Solids are retained in the tank after settling. Digestion of the solids occurs over time; however, the rate of solids accumulation exceeds the rate of solids digestion. Additionally, not all of the solids are digestible. Therefore, the solids level does rise over several years. A septic tank must be pumped periodically to prevent the solids level from reaching the outlet baffle where they are carried over to the disposal field.

A septic system is designed to treat domestic sewage generated through routine wastewater-producing activities (i.e. bathing, dishwashing, toilets use, etc.) Do not dispose of harsh chemicals such as pesticides, paint and paint cleaners, solvents, degreasers, etc. in the septic system. The liquid fraction of the wastewater is discharged into the ground. Some organic chemicals will flow untreated through the septic tank and the soil, thus contaminating the underlying groundwater. Do not dispose of condoms, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, or other solid wastes in a septic system. These solids are not digestible and reduce the capacity of the septic tank.

If the grass over your septic system is lush green and the soil is moist, you may have problems with your septic system. You should contact an expert to examine your system to isolate the cause of this condition. If the grass over the septic system is brown, you most likely do not have enough topsoil to support the lawn's root system.