Your septic system has trillions of bacteria inside. The bacteria processes your system’s effluent. Although it might have harmful bacteria like E. coli, some substances can help treat wastewater. Some septic contractors even offer bacterial treatments for septic tank cleaning in Sammamish, WA, although that won’t be necessary in most cases.
How do you care for your septic tank with the use of bacteria? This article discusses the role of microorganisms in septic tank cleaning.
What Is the Septic Tank Microbial Ecosystem?
Septic systems are installed on properties if the said property can’t utilize the city’s sewer system. If connecting your home in Sammamish, WA, to the city’s sewer line is impossible, you’d probably opt for installing a functional septic system.
Septic systems are easy to care for and require little maintenance. Some systems are even close to self-sufficient and that’s because of microorganisms.
Microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, rotifers, and nematodes can be found inside of them. Among those mentioned, bacteria are the most plentiful. All these organisms play a significant role in the functioning of your treatment system.
These organisms break down, clean, and process your wastewater. How? The microorganisms eat the biological waste and turn it into sludge that settles at the bottom of your septic tank.
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Anaerobic vs. Aerobic Bacteria
Bacteria are a type of microbe that processes the effluent inside the tank The beneficial bacteria fall under two categories: aerobic and anaerobic.
Aerobic bacteria tend to thrive where they can get a lot of oxygen. These types of organisms break down organic waste most efficiently. Hence, it is one of the reasons why drain fields (which contain aerobic bacteria) are so important.
Anaerobic bacteria, on the other hand, thrive with less oxygen. These organisms are responsible for methane fermentation in sewage sludge. They help the decomposition of macromolecular organic matter into simpler compounds.
Digestive Processes in the Tank
Septic tanks that treat wastewater go through a multi-stage process. The process goes through four stages. Below is a summary of the said process.
Stage 1: Sludge and Scum Accumulation
During this first stage in the digestive process, solid and floating materials are gathered at the bottom of the septic tank. These materials in the wastewater are then separated into two layers: sludge and scum.
The sludge consists of solid particles and other heavy materials. Meanwhile, scum consists of lightweight particles. These might include oils, fats, and other floating substances in wastewater.
Accumulation of those layers eventually results in septic issues, that’s why regular pumping and cleaning are so important for your system’s health.
Stage 2: Hydrolysis, Acidogenesis, and Methanogenesis
Hydrolysis breaks down complex organic materials into simpler substances. Acidogenesis turns substances from hydrolysis into simpler compounds. Meanwhile, methanogenesis produces methane gas and other byproducts from the acidogenesis process.
These processes work together to break down and change organic waste in the septic tank. At the same time they help treat wastewater before it is released from the system.
Stage 3: Nutrient Release
The third stage involves the release of nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium which help boost soil health. Quality effluent enhances nutrient levels in the soil which can affect tolerance limits and induce toxicity if they get too high.
Stage 4: Hydraulic Retention Time
Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT) is when wastewater stays in a treatment system before being released. The more time wastewater stays in a system, the better the treatment and removal of impurities.
Impact on System Performance
Natural bacteria in septic tanks impact the quality of effluent released by the system and therefore – the environment. Thus, proper maintenance and understanding are essential to ensure effective septic system performance.
If you have septic issues, scheduling a visit with a company that provides septic services in Sammamish, WA, is best. Call a provider immediately once you notice plumbing issues, such as slow drains in your sinks or water backups in your toilet. Don’t wait for clogs in your septic tank filter or major septic issues.
Effluent Quality and Environmental Impact
The quality of effluent released by a septic system directly impacts the environment. Excessive effluent not only affects soil, but also the groundwater. If groundwater supplies are contaminated, it can impact drinking water systems.
That is why it is important to partner with a reliable provider for septic tank cleaning in Sammamish, WA.
Fresh N Clean Septic offers trustworthy septic tank cleaning services in Sammamish, WA. We cover everything from septic tank filter inspection and septic pumping services to installments of septic risers. We also offer cleaning, maintenance, and repair services.
Our crew of experts is fully equipped with the knowledge and skill to ensure your septic system is running smoothly. Schedule a septic tank cleaning appointment with us today!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my septic tank cleaned?
According to the Snohomish Health Department, septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years. However, the maintenance frequency will depend on your usage. Some systems may require cleaning according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How can I ensure a healthy septic system between cleanings?
Conserve water regularly, avoid overloading the system, and avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the drains. Also, minimize flushing grease, chemicals, and excessive household cleaners down the drain.
What happens if I don’t clean my septic tank regularly?
Not cleaning your septic tank regularly can cause solid waste to accumulate. Thus reducing the efficiency of your septic tank. This eventually leads to clogs, backups, and potential damage to the drain field—a damaged system results in costly repairs and environmental issues.