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The Sewer System
Home » Plumbing » Septic Systems » The Sewer SystemYou may have never given much thought to your septic system. After all, do you really want to know what happens when you flush the toilet? However, if you are building or purchasing a new home, or if you are having trouble with your current septic system, then this topic could be of great interest to you.
Before we get into the workings of the septic system, lets first tackle what goes on in the sewer system. The sewers are designed to handle the millions of gallons of wastewater created by the world every day. There are several reasons why a sewer system is the preferable method of handling wastewater. First, and most obvious, wastewater stinks. Releasing it directly into the environment would make things very smelly, very fast. Second, wastewater contains harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, and water sources that are contaminated with it are extremely hazardous. Third, wastewater contains suspended solids and chemicals that can adversely affect the environment. Wastewater can contain nitrogen and phosphates from fertilizers, which promotes the growth of algae. It also contains organic material that will decompose from the bacteria in the water. This process deprives fish of oxygen. The suspended solids in wastewater also affect the ability of fish to see and breathe. These reasons, among others, are enough to make one thankful for the sewer systems. If your area does not have a sewer system, then the next best thing is a septic tank.
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