The Septic Tank Process

A septic tank is an on-site waste management system that biologically converts sewage and organic waste matter into an effluent that can be disposed of or used.

Safe, convenient and low-maintenance, a septic tank system can be essential for homes that aren't connected to the sewer system or those in rural areas.

But how does a septic tank actually work?  At Shrek's Septic Services here we take a look at the process of a septic tank system. 

There are a few different types of septic tank systems such as aerated wastewater treatment systems, home plant sewage systems and electric or gravity-based systems, but in general, they all work using the same natural processes.



Your septic tank will be connected to drainage pipes from toilets, showers and sinks to collect bio-waste and transport it away from your home to the septic tank system. A septic tank is a large plastic or concrete tank which is buried below ground.

The waste then undergoes a process called primary treatment, where the waste is sorted into either sludge, wastewater or scum based on density. 

This happens naturally and the solids at the bottom are then decomposed by microorganisms. After the waste has been sorted into these three types, the wastewater in the middle section is extracted through the tank outlet into a drainage field.

The effluent is then sent by gravity or pumped into an absorption trench which is also underground.

Once the waste has undergone primary treatment, the effluent is then transported for secondary treatment in the absorption trench. An absorption trench has a sand filter and a gravel filter and is designed to provide the perfect oxygenated environment for anaerobic bacteria which are essential to the workings of a septic tank system.

These filters catch any leftover septic solids and then the good bacteria in the absorption tank decompose the septic waste to further treat it. 



After the effluent has been treated it is then sent to the disposal area which is usually a trench or sand mound which is designed to make sure the effluent isn't released above ground.

The wastewater extracted from the tank then goes through an outlet pipe and travels underground into a drainage field through underground perforated pipes where it is absorbed back into the earth. 



Regular septic tank maintenance is crucial to make sure your septic tank is working and at Shrek's Septic Services, we offer a wide range of septic tank services in Toowoomba including pump-outs, cleaning and 24-hour emergency servicing.

Call us today on 07 4637 0130 and we'll make sure your septic tank system in Toowoomba is working safely and efficiently.