Septic Systems and Homesteading

What is a Septic System?
A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system that collects and treats waste from your home's plumbing fixtures such as toilets, showers, sinks, and washing machines. The size of the tank and type of drain field used in your septic system depends on the number of bedrooms in your home and the amount of water you use daily.

How Does It Work?
The wastewater from your house enters into the septic tank where solids settle to the bottom and are broken down by bacteria over time. The liquid portion then flows to a network of perforated pipes (the drainfield) where additional bacteria break down any remaining contaminants before they reach groundwater or surface waters.

Maintaining Your Septic System
Properly maintaining your septic system is essential in order for it to remain effective over time. This includes regularly scheduling pump-outs every three to five years depending on usage, avoiding using too much water (i.e., doing laundry during peak hours), minimizing chemical use (such as bleach), being mindful of what you flush down toilets or drains (no grease or food scraps!), and making sure there are no trees or shrubs planted too close to the tank or drainfield which can cause root intrusion problems.

Conclusion: A well-maintained septic system is an essential part of homesteading life because it helps protect the environment by safely treating wastewater before it reaches groundwater or surface waters. Proper maintenance is key; this includes scheduling regular pump-outs, avoiding excessive water usage, minimizing chemical use, monitoring what goes down drains/toilets, and being mindful of plant roots near tanks/drainfields. Following these tips will ensure that you have many years of reliable service out of your septic system!