How Septic Systems Work
Septic systems are an essential part of infrastructure for homes and businesses not connected to centralized sewer systems. Approximately 25% of households in Arizona rely on septic systems to treat and dispose of wastewater onsite. With proper maintenance and care, septic systems provide a safe, effective wastewater solution. This article provides a comprehensive overview of septic systems in Arizona, including how they work, statistics, regulations, maintenance, and tips for homeowners.
How Septic Systems Work in Arizona
Septic systems in Arizona typically consist of two main components – the septic tank and drainfield (also called a leach field or soil absorption field).
- Septic Tank – The septic tank is a buried, water-tight container made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. All wastewater from the home flows into the tank where solids settle out and some breakdown of organic matter begins.
- Drainfield – Liquid wastewater (effluent) exits the tank into the drainfield. This consists of a system of perforated pipes or chambers buried in shallow trenches of gravel. The drainfield provides additional treatment as effluent filters through soil, which removes harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients.
Key Statistics and Facts
- There are over 500,000 septic systems in use across Arizona.
- 1.2 million Arizonans rely on septic systems – approximately 20% of the state’s population.
- The failure rate for septic systems in Arizona is estimated to be over 10% according to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
- The most common cause of septic system failure is improper maintenance leading to clogs, backups, and drainage issues.
- Over 60% of septic systems in Arizona are over 30 years old.
- The estimated cost to repair or replace a failing septic system averages between $4,000-$20,000.
Arizona Regulations for Septic Systems
- All new septic system installations require a permit from the local county environmental department.
- Only state-licensed contractors can install, repair, or modify septic systems in Arizona.
- Septic systems must adhere to the minimum requirements established in the State of Arizona Administrative Code (R18-9-A309).
- Mandatory septic inspections are required upon the sale or transfer of a property with an onsite wastewater treatment facility.
- Homeowners with septic systems must have them pumped at regular intervals – generally every 3 to 5 years.
- It is illegal to discharge sewage or effluent from a septic system onto the ground or surface waters.
Septic System Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
- Inspect your drainfield annually for signs of failure like odors, wet spots, or surfacing sewage.
- Have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years by a licensed contractor.
- Avoid dumping grease, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and non-biodegradable products down drains.
- Limit use of garbage disposals to reduce solids loading to tank.
- Conserve water to avoid overloading the septic system.
- Don’t drive vehicles over the drainfield or build structures over it.
- Keep all stormwater drainage and downspouts diverted away from the septic system.
- Maintain all plumbing and repair any leaks promptly.
- Avoid planting trees or shrubs over the drainfield area.
Reliable Septic Services in Cave Creek, Arizona
Black Mountain Septic Services provides full septic installation, maintenance, and repair for homeowners throughout Arizona. Services include:
- Septic tank pumping
- Drainfield inspections and repairs
- New septic system design and installation
- Yearly maintenance contracts
- Emergency septic service 24/7
- Licensed, bonded, and insured
- 25+ years experience
For affordable and reliable septic system maintenance, repairs, or replacements in Cave Creek, contact Black Mountain Septic Services today at (480) 343-0335.