Leech Field Principles
The septic system and its leach field began replacing the outhouse in the late 19th century. Millions of homes and businesses in the United States not served by public sewers rely on these systems. Leach fields and septic systems require special care to keep them functioning properly. They have high failure rates, but this is often because of lack of knowledge on the owner's part. Learn the location and purpose of the septic and leach fields to avoid costly mistakes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Septic Systems
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The majority of septic systems consist of the septic tank and leach field, also referred to as the drain field. The septic tank filters the wastewater and returns it to the ground via the leach field. Septics are constructed of clay, concrete, or brick and more modern ones are built of fiberglass.
The Leach Field
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The leach field is the drainage area for the septic system. The leach field is based on the principle that wastewater absorbs into the soil, and organic matter is dissolved by bacteria. The leach field has entrenched piping, placed upon gravel, to distribute the effluent. Leach fields must be a minimum distance from wells, streams and dwellings.
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Care of the Septic System
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Be careful what goes down the septic, and eventually into the leach field. Don't dump chemicals or non-degradables into the system. Items such as sanitary napkins, diapers, baby wipes, cigarettes, tampons and cat litter should never be put down a toilet. Avoid pouring grease down drains. Septic systems are not compatible with garbage disposals, so don't install one or don't use it if it's already in place. If the house has a water softener, make sure it is not draining into the septic system, which could cause system failure. Limit water usage, and do only one full load of laundry per day. Don't take long showers.
Maintenance
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Regular maintenance is key to keeping the septic systems and its leach field in good operating order. Septic tanks should be pumped out every two to three years by a licensed septic contractor. Make sure toilets don't constantly run, fix leaky pipes, and avoid commercial septic tank additives, as they might do more harm than good to the bacteria needed in the system. Keep records of all pumping and maintenance. Alarm systems are available to warn homeowners of septic malfunction.
Precautions
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Keep the leach field as free and clear as possible. Don't cover it with any impervious surface, such as pavers, patios, concrete or basketball and other sports court. Avoid parking vehicles on the leach field. Don't plant trees or gardens on top of it, or place sheds or similar structures on the field. Leave it undisturbed, with nothing but a lawn on top of it.
Problems
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Septic failure is common, and getting the problem fixed as soon as possible saves time and money. Wet areas in the leach field or unusually lush growth might indicate something is wrong with the system. If there is a high failure septic rate in the neighborhood, have the system checked. After heavy rains or melting snow, be especially prudent about water usage. Clogged drains and improperly operating septic beds could mean a back-up of sewage into a residence or business. Sluggish toilets are a sign that a problem is brewing.
Solutions
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Before purchasing a property with a septic and leach field, have it thoroughly checked by a licensed inspector. Septics have a lifespan about 25 years with regular maintenance, depending on soil types and construction, so virtually all will need to be fixed at some point.
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