Septic Tanks
A septic system consists of a septic tank combined with a soil absorption system, transpiration beds or pump out connections. The system enables people living in unsewered areas to treat and disperse their sewage.
In unsewered areas, the proper treatment and utilisation of household wastewater on-site is critical in ensuring minimal impact to public health and the environment. Septic systems have been developed as a way of achieving this.
All the wastewater from a household enters the tank. Most of the solids settle to the bottom and are retained in the tank forming a sludge layer, whilst fats and greases collect at the top in a scum layer.
Bacteria in the septic tank break down the solid matter in the sludge and scum layers. Material that cannot be fully broken down gradually builds up in the tank and must be pumped out periodically.