Septic tank systems are used in many places across the globe to handle wastewater generated by various types of structures. Commercial septic systems are much like residential septic systems but built for additional usage capacity. If you’re interested in learning more about today’s commercial septic systems and how they work, read on.
How do Commercial Septic Systems Work?
Commercial septic systems are underground systems of pipes, drains, and holding areas in which wastewater runoff, such as that from toilets and sinks, can be mitigated in a safe manner. Drain pipes in various structures collect wastewater and run it to these septic systems where it is separated and mitigated. These systems then use multiple components, each with its own purpose, to handle that inflow of black and gray water.
One such component of these systems is the septic tank itself. This large underground tank is where wastewater first arrives from a structure’s drain pipes. Here, it is separated into solids and liquids.
Next, many of the solids are allowed to remain in the tank for further breakdown via bacterial and other natural processes. Many of the remaining liquids are then relieved from the tank into an external leech field. The leech field is essentially a designated area under the ground where these fluids can safely be ejected and dispersed into the soil. Other various components to commercial septic systems can include manhole access points, floats, pumps, and distribution boxes.
When Are Commercial Septic Systems Needed?
While many commercial properties rely purely on a connection to the city sewer system for wastewater dispersal, still, many others must utilize commercial septic systems. In locations where a nearby connection point for city sewer is not available, a septic system is then the best alternative. In addition, many commercial drain systems generate more waste than what a city sewer may be able to handle at a given time. In these cases, a septic system may be installed as an extra mechanism to handle the waste or as the singular mode of wastewater management.
What Are the Maintenance Requirements of Commercial Septic Systems?
Like their residential counterparts, commercial septic systems do require periodic maintenance. Regular maintenance typically includes tank cleaning and inspection. This is usually best done in intervals of between one and three years. This frequency is dependant on the volume of use and modes of use of the establishment’s drain system.
Sometimes, reactive maintenance is also required in these types of systems. Such reactive maintenance usually stems from the introduction of improper materials into the septic system by the structure’s drains. In other cases, mechanical problems can occur such as stuck floats or cracked pipes and tanks. In all cases of septic maintenance, reactive or preventive, professional plumbers should only do the work, and it should not be put off, as additional problems can quickly compound due to delays in needed service.
At The Original Plumber & Septic, we are vastly experienced in residential and commercial septic services of all kinds. If you are in need of commercial septic services or even just need a professional consultation on your system, we are your top experts to call. There when you need us, seven days a week, The Original Plumber & Septic is your premier plumbing service contractor for the greater Atlanta area.