What Is A Drain Field?

A drain field, commonly referred to as a leach field or septic leach field, is among the most important components of any septic system in Gainesville, FL. The leach field acts as a disposal sieve for organic matter that enters the system, filling the role as the final step in processing or treating the sewage in your septic system. Your drain field comprises a network of below-ground pipes with perforations next to the septic tank. Once waste made up of contaminants and liquids is broken down by bacteria in the tank, the resulting matter flows through the pipes and is naturally filtered underground.

Where Is The Drain Field Located?

Your septic system's drain field is typically located in a large, flat, spacious area of your outdoor property. The drain field often comprises several trenches, usually made 6 feet apart from one another, and each trench can be 18–36 inches in depth and 1–3 feet in width. The specific location of your drain leach field depends on your property's layout and the specific type of system installed there. For more information and to request comprehensive local septic tank service for your Gainesville property, contact Jones Plumbing & Septic Tank Service!

Signs Your Drain Field Is Malfunctioning

When the drain field in your septic system functions as it should, the entire system works properly. In this case, the drain field stays covered underground and doesn't cause strange noises or disruptions to your system. Signs indicating problems with your leach field include the following.

• Gurgling noises
• Sewage or drain backups
• Foul odors coming from the septic tank and drain field
• Saturated water spots above the tank
• Interior drains that drain slowly
• Slow-flushing toilets
• Excess water in the ground above the drain field

How To Prevent Drain Field Failure

While not every drain field problem can be avoided completely, there are certain steps you can take to help keep your septic system running smoothly and prevent the likelihood of drain field failure. Among the most important things to do is to schedule routine septic tank inspections with a trusted septic provider, such as Jones Plumbing & Septic Tank Service. Additional steps you can take to prevent drain field failure include the following:

• Using a septic tank-approved monthly treatment or process to dissolve soild and reduce scum from accumulating in the tank
• Avoiding putting harmful or abrasive chemicals commonly found in cleaning products down the sink or toilet
• Flushing only human waste and septic-approved toilet paper down the toilet
• Spreading out use of your laundry machine throughout the week to limit wastewater from entering the tank
• Following your local septic system regulations
• Avoiding driving or parking heavy equipment or vehicles over the drain field
• Limiting the use of the garbage disposal system
• Keeping grease, paint, oil, and other items out of your drains
• Scheduling septic service as your system requires

Schedule Septic Tank Repair In Gainesville, FL

If your septic system or drain field function improperly or your system hasn't received regular septic tank cleaning or service, call our team at Jones Plumbing & Septic Tank Service to clean out your system and remove any clogs or blockages. For more than 3 years, our professional technicians have provided local home and business owners with everything they need for a high-functioning and lasting septic system. Don't wait! Contact us today!