Homeowner's Guide to Septic System Maintenance in Georgia

A septic system is a wastewater treatment system that uses natural processes to treat and dispose of sewage from homes and businesses that are not connected to a municipal sewer system. Septic systems are common in rural areas and in areas with older homes.

How Does a Septic System Work?

A septic system consists of two main components: a septic tank and a drain field. The septic tank is an underground tank where wastewater from the home flows. The tank has two chambers. In the first chamber, solids settle to the bottom of the tank and form a sludge layer. Oils and grease float to the top of the tank and form a scum layer. The sludge and scum layers are broken down by bacteria. The effluent, or liquid portion of the wastewater, flows from the first chamber to the second chamber. In the second chamber, the effluent is further clarified and then flows to the drain field.

The drain field is a series of perforated pipes that are buried in a trench. The effluent flows from the septic tank to the drain field and is then dispersed into the soil. The soil filters the effluent and removes harmful bacteria and viruses.

Why is Septic System Maintenance Important?

Septic system maintenance is important to ensure that the system is working properly and to prevent problems such as:

  • Backups: If the septic tank is not emptied regularly, the sludge layer can build up and block the outlet pipe. This can cause sewage to back up into the home.
  • Clogging: If the drain field is not properly maintained, it can become clogged with grease, oil, and other solids. This can prevent the effluent from dispersing into the soil and can cause sewage to back up into the septic tank.
  • Effluent contamination: If the septic system is not working properly, the effluent can contaminate the groundwater. This can pose a health risk to people who drink the groundwater.

How to Maintain a Septic System in Georgia

There are a few things that homeowners can do to maintain their septic systems:

Have the septic tank pumped regularly: The septic tank should be pumped every 1-3 years, depending on the size of the tank and the number of people living in the home.

Inspect the drain field regularly: The drain field should be inspected every 2-3 years for signs of clogging or damage.

Avoid putting grease, oil, and other solids into the septic system: Grease, oil, and other solids can clog the septic system and prevent it from working properly.

Use water-efficient appliances and fixtures: Water-efficient appliances and fixtures can help reduce the amount of wastewater that flows to the septic system.

Plant trees and shrubs away from the septic system: Trees and shrubs can damage the septic system and prevent it from working properly.

Additional Tips for Septic System Maintenance in Georgia

  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners in your home. These chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank and prevent it from working properly.
  • If you have a garbage disposal, be careful what you put down it. Avoid putting grease, oil, and other solids into the garbage disposal, as these can clog the septic system.
  • If you have a water softener, make sure that it is properly maintained. Water softeners can add salt to your wastewater, which can harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank.
  • If you have a swimming pool or hot tub, be careful what you put in the water. Avoid putting chlorine, bromine, or other chemicals into the pool or hot tub, as these can harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank.