When properly maintained, septic tanks are great waste management systems and can be both cost-effective and convenient for your home. If you have a septic system or are thinking about installing one, you may be concerned about the environmental impact. Let’s take a closer look at the environmental concerns with septic systems.

How Septic Systems Work

Before we get into how they affect the environment, you first have to understand how septic systems work. A septic system is made up of two key components, a tank, and a leaching system. Waste is carried from the sewage line to the underground septic tank. Naturally occurring bacteria liquidates the solid pieces of waste while heavy particles form a layer of sludge until it’s broken down.

Maintenance is Key

If a septic tank isn’t pumped every 3-5 years or is not properly maintained with regular inspections, sewage can seep into the surrounding groundwater and nearby bodies of water. However, when taken care of and pumped on a regular basis, septic tanks can be far more environmentally friendly than other sewage treatment methods.

Decompose vs. Reduce

Since septic tank systems work by decomposing waste with the help of naturally occurring bacteria, they are much better for the environment than sewage treatment systems that just work to reduce the amount of wastewater. Septic tanks are also installed underground which eliminates the need for structures or machinery that could potentially cause environmental damage.

If you have a septic tank system, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are disposing of your waste in an environmentally sound way. Just remember to take care of your septic tank. Call Affordable Pumping Services today to get on a regular pumping schedule. Also, ask our trained technicians about regular inspections and ways you can keep your septic tank in top shape to protect your home and the environment.