A septic system is a simple yet effective way to safely treat and dispose of sewage. The most common type is the soil absorption system.

Soiled water from the house (toilets, sinks, tubs, washing machine, etc.) enters the first compartment of the septic tank. Heavier solids settle to the bottom as sludge, the lighter particles float to the top forming a "scum" layer and what remains is wastewater. The wastewater is transferred to the second compartment of the tank through a transfer pipe.

From here, the water flows to the septic field either through a siphon or an electric pump located inside the tank. Once the wastewater reaches the field, further decomposition takes place as the water filters through the rock and soil. The septic field is usually composed of four or five pipes approximately 100 ft. in length containing many holes.

These holes allow the water to escape and to be distributed evenly throughout the field. The pipes are embedded in crushed rock to allow for further distribution of the wastewater.

Insulation such as straw is often added to protect from freezing in the winter months. After the wastewater reaches this point it is absorbed by the surrounding soil and enters the ground water system.