Septic System Glossary: Easy Definitions of Common Terms
Understanding the technical terms and jargon related to septic systems can make the maintenance and care process much easier. Here’s a simple glossary of commonly used septic system terms, explained in a way that’s quick and easy to understand.
1. Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU)
An advanced septic system that uses oxygen to break down waste more efficiently than conventional systems. ATUs are ideal for areas with sensitive environments or poor soil conditions.
2. Anaerobic
A process that occurs without oxygen. Conventional septic systems rely on anaerobic bacteria to break down waste in the septic tank.
3. Baffle
A component inside the septic tank that helps separate solids from liquids, preventing solids from leaving the tank and entering the drain field.
4. Drain Field (Leach Field)
The area where treated wastewater (effluent) is dispersed after it leaves the septic tank. The drain field allows the effluent to filter through the soil, which further cleans it before it enters the groundwater.
5. Effluent
The liquid wastewater that exits the septic tank and enters the drain field. Effluent is partially treated and must be filtered by the soil to remove contaminants.
6. Grease Trap
A device that captures grease and oils from kitchen wastewater before it enters the septic system. Grease can clog pipes and harm the septic system, so a grease trap helps prevent this.
7. High Water Table
A situation where the groundwater is close to the surface. This can make it difficult for conventional septic systems to filter wastewater effectively, often requiring alternative systems like mound systems or ATUs.
8. Leach Field
Another name for the drain field. It’s where the effluent is spread out and filtered through the soil after leaving the septic tank.
9. Mound System
An alternative septic system used when soil conditions are poor or the water table is high. The drain field is raised in a mound of sand and gravel, allowing for proper wastewater filtration in areas where a traditional system wouldn’t work.
10. Nutrient Pollution
Occurs when excess nitrogen or phosphorus enters water bodies, often due to improperly treated wastewater from septic systems. This pollution can lead to harmful algal blooms and damage marine ecosystems.
11. Pump Chamber
A separate chamber in some septic systems that houses the pump. The pump moves effluent from the septic tank to the drain field or mound system, especially in areas where gravity cannot do the work.
12. Septic Tank
The underground tank where wastewater from the house is stored and treated. Solids settle at the bottom, while liquids (effluent) flow out to the drain field. The tank needs to be pumped every 3-5 years to remove the accumulated solids (sludge).
13. Scum Layer
The top layer in the septic tank made of fats, oils, and other materials that float on water. This layer must be managed to prevent clogs in the system.
14. Sludge
The solid waste that accumulates at the bottom of the septic tank. Over time, sludge builds up and must be pumped out to prevent the system from overflowing or failing.
15. Soil Absorption System
The part of a septic system (typically the drain field) that allows effluent to be absorbed and filtered by the soil.
16. Sewage
Wastewater from toilets, sinks, showers, and other household drains. It contains both solid and liquid waste.
17. Septic-Friendly Products
Products like toilet paper or cleaning products that are designed to break down easily and won’t harm the bacteria in your septic tank or clog the system.
18. Septic to Sewer Conversion
The process of connecting a home with a septic system to a municipal sewer system. This is often required in areas with high population density or environmental concerns.
19. Siphon
A device used in some septic systems to control the flow of effluent from the septic tank to the drain field.
20. Wastewater
Water that has been used in the home (e.g., from toilets, sinks, showers) and needs to be treated before being returned to the environment.
21. Advanced Septic System
A system that goes beyond the basic septic tank and drain field setup, often including features like aerators or filters to remove more contaminants. These systems are required in sensitive areas to protect water quality.
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