Rob Rehm Indianapoilis Home Inspectors perspective on Septic Systems

1. Our View of Septic Tanks and Sewage Treatment Systems
P E R S P E C T I V E S
On-site sewage treatment systems (commonly known as septic systems) typically have a sewage tank
and a drain field which are installed below grade. Effluent (liquids) runs from the tank into the drain field.
Today, tanks are normally made of concrete or fiberglass and are either septic tanks or aerated tanks.
Note - these are two distinctly different systems.
Types of Tanks
Septic tanks rely on anaerobic (without oxygen) bacteria to partially treat the sewage. Aerated tanks include a motor
which uses aerobic (oxygen using) bacteria to break down the organic portions of the sewage into simpler inorganic
compounds. Compared to septic tanks, aerated tanks break down the sewage more rapidly, provide greater solids
reduction and are relatively odor free.
What Does a Septic Tank Inspection Include?
While septic tank inspections are not part of the standard home inspection, many inspectors have additional training and
certification to provide this service. A qualified septic inspector will be looking at components of the system both inside and
especially outside the home. Inside, the inspector will determine whether all waste lines are properly discharging into
approved waste systems. Outside, the inspector will need access (and permission from the seller) to open the treatment tank,
examine the inlet and outlet baffles to determine the volume and check for cracking, corrosion or leakage. In addition to the
tank itself, the inspector will visually check the absorption field to
Provided by:
ensure there is proper drainage without leaking.
Rob Rehm
Buyers Protection Group Important
Licensed Home Inspector A common misconception is that if the aerator motor stops or
Licensed WDO Inspector malfunctions, the aerated tank can function adequately as a
septic tank-- not true. It is our perspective that all tanks are
NACHI Certified
made to perform for the purpose in which they were designed.
The Best Inspectors. Anywhere. Aerator motors should run continuously. If they stop working, the
To place your next order, please call breakdown of solids can be insufficient and could cause the
onsite sewage system to fail.
800-285-3001
Septic Tank “Do’s” and “Don'ts”
Do have your tank pumped and system inspected regularly; normally
tanks are pumped every 3-5 years. Use water-saving features in
faucets, shower heads and toilets. Use biodegradable soaps and
laundry detergents. Keep the use of your garbage disposal to a
minimum. Don’t drive or park over any part of the system. Don’t plant
trees or shrubbery in or near the drain field. Don’t use commercial
septic tank additives. Don’t flush coffee grounds, dental floss,
disposable diapers, personal hygiene products, cigarette butts, paper
towels, fats/grease, paints, varnishes, pesticides or waste oil into your
tank.
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