Understanding Septic Systems | Ask This Old House

Summary by Krater

Ask This Old House plumbing expert Richard Trethewey uses a cutaway model to explain how residential septic systems work, detailing the chamber separation, anaerobic bacterial breakdown, and leaching field drainage process.

From the video

Answers: How does a residential septic system work?

• septic tank design and function
• septic system chambers
• anaerobic bacteria in septic systems
• leaching field distribution pipes
• septic system maintenance and additives

What it concludes

• About 25 percent of American homes have a septic tank system.
• Septic tanks are typically at least 1,000 gallons and made of concrete or fiberglass.
• Putting non-biodegradable items like grease, wet wipes, and kitty litter into a septic system can clog and destroy the bacterial action.
• Using natural enzyme additives can help support the septic breakdown process, but overuse should be avoided.
• Properly maintained septic systems can have a 30-year life before needing professional cleanout.