human
I've been hearing a lot about septic tanks and septic systems. What are they and how do they work?
assistant
Septic tanks are large containers that hold wastewater from homes, businesses, and other buildings. The tanks are designed to contain the waste until it can be properly treated by the local sewage treatment facility. The tank is made of concrete or plastic and has a lid that allows air to enter and exit the tank. Wastewater enters the tank through a pipe and flows into the tank where it mixes with water and bacteria in the tank. This mixture causes the waste to decompose naturally and produces methane gas as a byproduct. Once the waste has decomposed, the tank’s pump removes the liquid from the tank and carries it to the local sewer system for further treatment.