Septic tanks consist of many parts, but one of the key components inside the tank is the baffle. if it gets clogged, the septic tank can’t drain and you should consult septic companies for pumping and repairs. Here is everything you need to know about a septic tank baffle and how it works.
Septic Tank Baffle
A septic tank is a big reservoir of sorts that holds all of the waste inside it. Well, inside the tank, there is also a wall that has a hole in the middle of it. This is essentially a septic tank baffle.
The septic tank baffle is used to skim out the solid and floating waste from the majority of the wastewater. See, from the tank, the waste goes down into the drain field and then the distribution box where it is absorbed into the soil and that’s how a septic tank gets rid of the waste.
However, this is only possible when the septic waste is flowing freely and there is no solid waste trying to get in the way of the water getting discharged. This is the job of a septic tank baffle. It essentially stops the clogging of the septic tank and doesn’t allow any waste or scum to clog and block the septic tank.
Clogging of a septic tank can lead to major problems which is why it’s recommended that you always use a baffle for it. It will make your life so much easier.
Baffled Vs. Non-Baffled Septic Tank
Older septic tanks used to be without a baffle and you can understand why the need for a baffle in the tank arose.
A baffle is a very important part of a septic tank. It has a lot of benefits, but the main one is that it prevents clogging in the tank and the drain field so it keeps the integrity of the system in one piece. This is something that you don’t want to consider replacing because it is a workout and a half.
So, a lot of people tend to ask this question: Is a baffle better for you or not? If you’re talking in the basic sense, then yes, a septic tank baffle will change the way you think about septic tanks in the long run.
A septic tank without a baffle can be used and it’s not like they’re forbidden, but you will need to put in a lot more elbow grease to ensure that clogging doesn’t become a problem. This is something that a lot of people have to deal with. So, if you are changing your septic tank after a long time, then maybe consider getting one with a baffle.
It will do the work for you and you will also see that these tanks require way less maintenance and looking after, as compared to non-baffled septic tanks. Maintenance is always a pain in the neck, especially when it comes to an underground tank. So, if you want to make things easier for yourself, then maybe you want to get a more modern version of the tank.
In this way, you will get the best of both worlds, with the tank working amazingly and the maintenance being low. Now, that’s where simple science can make so much sense.
Benefits Of Septic Tank Baffle
Baffles in septic tanks sound like the best things ever. Well, they are, and here are some of the most notable benefits of it.
Prevents Blocking
The first one is probably the obvious, but it’s the main reason why people get septic tank baffles in the first place. It prevents blockage and clogging, not just in the tank, but also in parts leading out of it.
The drain field and distribution box are two very crucial parts of the septic system and they’re also pretty hard to reach. So, if you can get your hands on a septic tank baffle, then things will fall into place.
Makes The Tank Efficient
It’s simple logic. If the tank is not getting clogged day after day, and if there isn’t any major problem with the tank, then the whole system will also work efficiently and smoothly without any problem.
This is why you need to consider a baffle because it will change your world. An efficient tank also means that you have to maintain it less, and you also seldom need to look after it. It is just amazing and you will be surprised at the fact that a simple wall with a hole can lead to so much ease.
Doesn’t Let The Tank Overflow
One hidden benefit of a baffle in a septic tank is the fact that it prevents the tank itself from overflowing. Overflowing septic tanks may sound harmless but they’re pretty hard to get by and don’t even get started on repair because the problem is almost invisible.
Well, with a baffle, once the waste reaches the level of the hole or the baffle, it will automatically start the draining process and you will never find your tank getting overflowed. It is such an easy fix but it will save you from a lot of trouble.
Fixing Septic Tank Baffle Problems
Baffles in septic tanks are amazing and all that, but there can also be some problems. Here are some common issues that can rear their heads in a septic tank baffle.
Crumbling Concrete Baffle
This was mainly a problem with older tanks, but it doesn’t mean that it’s a non-issue. Baffles were first made out of concrete and it made sense at the time. However, 24/7 and constant contact of concrete with wastewater was a big no and what it led to was disaster.
Concrete crumbles and cracks when there is too much moisture, so it’s only a matter of time until the baffle gives up on you. So, if you have an old tank with a concrete baffle, then this will be a problem for you. You should consider a high-quality septic tank installation Berkeley County.
Clogged Outlet Baffle
A clogged baffle can also be an issue. It’s something that can happen in both concrete as well as PVC baffles. If there are leaks or any other obstruction in the baffle or the joint leading from the baffle to the tank, then that can eventually lead to clogs in the baffle itself.
So, you want to ensure that you’re looking out for any signs of damage in the baffle because that can happen especially if the tank is old.
Blockages Due To Tree Roots
Tying in with the previous problem, this can also lead to clogging and blockage inside the baffle. This is why it’s recommended that you don’t plant trees or anything with long and penetrative roots in the surrounding of the septic tank, because it can lead to problems like these.
Tree roots, even though they might seem harmless, can do a lot of damage to the septic tank baffle. If the baffle is clogged, then overflowing will follow and after that, the efficiency of the tank will go down the drain – literally.
Conclusion
A baffle is a crucial part of a septic system and now you know why. It ensures that the tank works properly and doesn’t get clogged. If your septic system is backing up or the septic tank is clogged, consult a septic tank service Frederick County for an inspection and repairs.
