How Do Septic Systems Work? A Homeowner’s Guide

If you live in a rural area in the Ottawa Valley, chances are your property relies on a septic system instead of a municipal sewer. Septic systems are a safe, effective, and environmentally friendly way to treat household wastewater—but many homeowners aren’t sure exactly how they work.

In this guide, we’ll break it down in simple terms.

Septic Tank

The Main Parts of a Septic System

A standard septic system has two key components:

1. The Septic Tank

• Buried underground, the septic tank collects wastewater from your home.

• Solids settle at the bottom of the septic tank, forming sludge.

• Oils and grease float to the top of the septic tank, forming scum.

• The middle layer (liquid wastewater, or effluent) flows out of the septic tank to the drain field.

2. The Drain Field (Leaching Bed)

• This is a network of pipes or chambers buried in soil.

• The effluent from the septic tank slowly filters into the soil.

• Natural microbes in the soil break down harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients.

• The water is safely returned to the environment.

• The size of your field is directly related to your native soil types and water table elevation.

How the Process Works Step by Step

1. Wastewater leaves your home whenever you flush a toilet, take a shower, or run the dishwasher—any time you use a plumbing fixture.

2. The septic tank has two chambers and separates solids and liquids—keeping sludge and scum inside, while allowing liquid effluent to flow out.

3. Effluent enters the drain field after flowing through an effluent filter, where soil acts as a natural filter.

4. Clean water returns to the groundwater supply, protecting your property and the environment.

Why Maintenance Matters

Over time, sludge and scum build up in the septic tank. If the tank isn’t pumped regularly, solids can flow into the drain field, causing clogs and expensive failures in your septic system.

Signs your septic system may need attention include:

• Slow drains in your home

• Gurgling sounds in pipes

• Wet spots or bad odors near the leaching bed

• Sewage backups (the worst!)

Regular septic pumping (every 3-5 years) and septic inspections keep your septic system healthy and extend its lifespan.

Need Septic Help in the Ottawa Valley?

At Foster Civil Contracting, we specialize in septic system installation and replacement. Whether you’re building a new home or dealing with a failing system, our team has the equipment and expertise to do the job right.

Contact us today for a free septic system consultation and estimate.