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Conventional Vs. Aerobic Septic Systems

Septic systems are a great option, as they’re cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and low maintenance.  What many people don’t realize, though, is that there’s more than one kind of septic system.  This includes a conventional septic tank, aerobic septic system, evapotranspiration systems, and much more.  Two of the most popular, however, are conventional septic systems and aerobic septic systems.  This article introduces the differences between these two systems.

 

Conventional Septic System

In this system, solid waste is taken to the tank where it settles at the bottom and forms a sludge.  The liquid, on the other hand, floats at the top and forms a layer of scum.  The natural occurring bacteria then helps break down solid waste so that it can be taken to the drainfield.  When it is taken to the drainfield, it trickles through the aggregate and the soil filters out any harmful bacteria in the waste.

 

Aerobic Septic Systems

Aerobic septic systems, on the other hand, are more complex.  They have 3 departments: a pump tank, trash tank, and a treatment plant.  Just like the other tank, waste is taken to the trash tank where it settles into layers.  The main difference is that instead of going to a drainfield, the waste is taken to the treatment plant.  Here, an aerator circulates oxygen bubbles throughout the effluent.  This oxygen provides an environment for aerobic microbes to live, which then break down the solid waste.  The waste then goes to the pump tank where it’s treated with chlorine and then absorbed into the soil.

 

Although the conventional system and aerobic septic system have many differences, they have one thing in common: maintenance.  The best way to maintain these tanks is with Poughkeepsie NY septic tank pumping and Poughkeepsie NY septic tank cleaning.  Without these two things, septic tanks can face serious complications.

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