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Wastewater Enters the Tank
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All water from toilets, sinks, showers, and appliances flows through the home's plumbing into the septic tank.
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Separation of Solids and Liquids
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Inside the tank, solids settle to the bottom (forming sludge), and oils/grease float to the top (forming scum).
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The relatively clear middle layer is called effluent.
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Anaerobic Bacterial Breakdown
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Bacteria in the tank break down solids, reducing volume and partially treating the wastewater.
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Effluent Flows to Drain Field
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The liquid effluent exits the tank into a distribution box and then flows into a drain (leach) field through perforated pipes.
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Soil Filtration
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Effluent percolates through the soil, where natural filtration and microbial activity further clean the water before it reaches the groundwater.
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Maintenance
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Tanks must be pumped every 3–5 years to remove accumulated sludge and scum and prevent system failure.
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