A conventional septic system has two major parts: a septic tank and a drainfield (soil absorption field).
Inside the tank
Wastewater enters the tank, where solids settle and floatable material separates. Liquid effluent exits toward the drainfield.
In the drainfield
Effluent is distributed through the soil treatment area. The soil provides further treatment before water returns to the environment.
Why maintenance matters
If solids escape the tank, they can contribute to drainfield clogging. That is one reason inspection and periodic pumping are central to septic care.
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