If your property includes a septic system, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the concept of the leach field in Modesto, CA. If you can’t answer the question, “What is a leach field?” use this quick overview to educate yourself on the subject.
Once you understand what this is and how it works, you can properly maintain your septic system. This will save you time and money in the long run.
What is a leach field in Modesto, CA?
A leach field is also referred to as a leach drain or a drain field. It is a key part of your septic system. The leach field is the area of your yard where the liquid waste disperses from your tank. The purpose of the leach field is to remove impurities from your wastewater after it leaves your tank.
How does a leach field work?
This field acts as a digester to biodegrade the substances that pass through your septic system. The bacteria in the field break down the organic substances.
The field features underground pipes that are surrounded by permeable soil or appropriate gravel. These pipes are also called lines. Tiny holes in the lines allow wastewater to flow through them and into the surrounding soil or gravel. After the wastewater reaches the soil, bacteria cleanse the water. Keep in mind that solids are held in the septic tank by a filter, so only the waste water reaches the leach field.
Where is a leach field located?
Knowing the location of your leach field is just as important as knowing what a leach field is in Modesto, CA. The leach field is a carefully designated portion of your yard. It must be located in an area that is free of underground obstruction from roots. If the septic system is working properly, you should not be able to tell from above ground where the leach field is located, since it won’t have an effect on the surrounding grass or soil.
If you can tell where your leach field is located due to overfertilized, lush green grass or puddles of water, it’s time to take action. You probably need to contact a professional to pump your septic tank.
What is the proper maintenance for a leach field?
To properly care for your leach field, keep it free from root entanglement. Avoid planting trees or bushes in or near the field. Maintain at least a 10-foot perimeter around the field that is free of this type of vegetation to ensure roots do not harm the leach field pipes.
Secondly, do not park or drive vehicles, including motorbikes and tractors, on the leach field.
Lastly, have your septic tank pumped regularly. Annual pumping is necessary to prevent solid waste buildup, which can ruin your septic system and make it ineffective.
Get answers
If you have more questions like, “What is a leach field?” contact the team at Alvarado Pumping Septic Service in Modesto, CA. Serving Stanislaus County and the surrounding areas for over 10 years, we offer the most competitively priced services in the community, from septic tank installation to septic tank inspection. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule your next service.