How To Clean Out A Septic Distribution Box
A septic system, also known as a cesspool or onsite sewage treatment system, is a type of underground sewage management system. It uses a variety of methods to treat and remove waste from your home so that it does not pollute groundwater or other local sources of drinking water.
A septic tank is the primary component of most residential septic systems. It receives the raw sewage from inside the home and begins the process of removing contaminants using natural bacterial processes. Once the wastewater has been sufficiently filtered, it is released into a septic distribution box, which then sends it to the soil beneath your home via underground pipes. Keeping these components functional and clean will help to ensure that your secess tank continues to function properly and efficiently.
How Septic Distribution Boxes Work
Most homes with a septic system are connected to a septic distribution box. Septic distribution boxes are usually made of concrete or fiberglass and are typically found in a backyard or a driveway near the house. Inside the box, there are several filters that help to remove solid materials (wastewater solids) from the sewage, as well as other components like a septic pump and a pressure tank.
The wastewater solids are separated from the liquid in the distribution box by a porous filter material. The liquid flows out of the filter, into a septic pump. The septic pump sends the liquid to the septic tank, or the primary treatment process for the wastewater inside the house. The wastewater solids flow through the filter material and into a pressure tank. The pressure tank also filters the solids from the wastewater before it is sent to the septic tank.
Why You Need to Clean Your Septic Distribution Box
There are several reasons why you should regularly clean your septic distribution box. Firstly, it helps to remove any excess buildup that may have accumulated since the last time the box was cleaned. This will help to prevent the septic pump from getting blocked and reduce the risk of a septic system failure.
In addition, cleaning the septage box will reduce the risk of odor in your home since the distribution box will trap rotting debris that causes the smell.
Finally, cleaning the septic distribution box will help to extend the lifespan of the system since it is regularly removing excess buildup.
What is Found in a Septic Distribution Box
- A filter that is found at the bottom of the septic distribution box. This filter is made up of a material that allows water to flow through it, but does not allow solids to pass through. This helps to remove any small particles from the wastewater and prevent them from reaching your septic tank.
- A pressure tank is typically found above one or two filters inside the distribution box. A pressure tank is used to filter out small solids from the wastewater before it is sent to the septic tank.
- A septic pump is typically found at the bottom of the distribution box. The septic pump removes wastewater from the distribution box and sends it to the septic tank.
- An inlet pipe is used to direct wastewater from the house to the distribution box. Outlet pipes in the distribution box send wastewater to the septic tank.
How to Clean a Septic Distribution Box
Before you start cleaning your septic distribution box, it is important to check the manufacturer instructions to determine what cleaning methods are safe for use. Most experts recommend using a garden hose or pressure washer to clean the bottom of the distribution box.
Use a brush or a small shovel to remove any caked-on debris. Once the bottom of the distribution box is clean, you should also clean the inside of the box. To do so, remove the top of the distribution box and use a garden hose to flush out any remaining solids.
When cleaning the inside of the box, it is important to avoid using a pressure washer, since this can damage the filters. Instead, use a garden hose or a bucket of water with a mild detergent to flush out the inside of the distribution box.
Tips for Cleaning Your Own Septic Distribution Box
Wear protective clothing and shoes to protect yourself from sharp objects and potential infections.
Disconnect any hoses or pipes that need to be cleaned or repaired.
Close the septic tank lid or remove any other obstacles that might get in the way when cleaning the distribution box.
Avoid using chemicals or harsh cleaners, as these can damage the filters inside the distribution box. It is important to regularly clean your septic distribution box and follow the manufacturer instructions.
If you regularly maintain your septic system, it will last longer and be less likely to fail. A properly maintained septic system is also less likely to smell and create a health hazard. Cleaning your septic distribution box is a simple task that can greatly impact the health and longevity of your system.
