The parts of your septic system may become damaged or worn out with time and use, including a couple of components called the “baffles.” Though you may be more familiar with this as a word that means “confusing,” septic tank baffle repair doesn’t have to be!
Tank, drain field, sludge, scum, effluent… if you’ve owned a septic system for at least a few years, you may have become more familiar with each of these terms and how they relate to your septic system. But did you know that your septic system also includes something called a baffle? Like the other components of your septic system, baffles may become damaged or need to be replaced periodically. Acme shares more about this indispensable part of your septic system with you today!
What Is A Baffle?
The primary function of a baffle is to control the flow of wastewater to and from your septic tank. Traditional septic tanks contain two different types: an inlet baffle and an outlet baffle, which are located on either side of the interior of your septic tank and serve separate functions.
Inlet baffle – The inlet baffle guides incoming wastewater from the showers, sinks, toilets, dishwasher, and any other appliance or fixture that produces water from your home to your septic tank. The inlet baffle also prevents incoming wastewater from disturbing the sludge (solid waste) that lies on the bottom of your septic tank.
Outlet baffle – The outlet baffle ensures that only treated wastewater (effluent) exits your septic tank. Without an outlet baffle, other types of waste from the interior of your septic tank could easily escape the tank and enter the septic drain field.
The inlet and outlet baffles also aid in the operation of your septic system by preventing blockages and helping to ensure that solid waste is directed to the bottom of the tank, liquids (effluent) are layered in the middle, and any grease and scum remains on the surface of the fluid in your septic tank.
Ensuring that every component of your septic system is in good repair is an essential part of reducing pollution levels in the environment and your community. Well-functioning baffles prevent excess material from entering the drain field, enhance the breakdown of waste, and prevent harmful organisms from entering the surrounding groundwater supply.
Why Might A Baffle Need Repairs?
Like any part of your septic system, baffles may wear down over time or need to be replaced following damage. Here are a few scenarios that may result in the need for septic tank baffle repair:
- Corrosion or deterioration from gases, water, or chemicals in the tank
- Tree root damage
- Improper pumping
- Improper installation
- Improper maintenance
The effects of corrosion and deterioration are the most difficult to avoid because they are natural byproducts of system use. Problems caused by improper pumping, installation, and maintenance, can absolutely be prevented by following septic-safe guidelines and ensuring that your septic system is serviced by a professional, qualified septic service company.
Tips To Prevent Baffle Damage
Now that you know that homeowners can do a lot to prevent the need for septic tank baffle repair, here are some specific ways to accomplish this:
Only flush septic-safe materials – While it may seem a little restrictive, septic tanks aren’t designed to break down anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Paper towels, dental floss, cat litter, grease, and chemicals do everything from creating clogs to upsetting the bacterial balance in your septic system. If clogs and other types of malfunction are serious enough, they can lead to system damage and failure.
Plan before you plant – When planting trees or installing other structures on your property, plan according to your septic system’s location. The moisture produced by your septic tank and drain field are extremely attractive to tree roots, which can puncture your septic system and result in pollution and expensive repair bills
Look for a reputable septic repair company – Septic maintenance should be performed by a reputable company. Going with the pros improves the chances that your septic tank will be treated with care during pump-outs, and that any damage will be identified and repaired with expertise.
Acme: Demystifying Septic Care For Over 30 Years
You don’t need to be “baffled” by septic tank baffle repair with Acme on your side! Contact us today for septic repair, pump-outs, inspections, and more.