Understanding the Main Components of Your Septic System

At MAGNUS Solutions, LLC, serving Spokane, WA, and Coeur d'Alene, ID, we believe an informed homeowner is a prepared one. Knowing the main components of your septic system helps you maintain it effectively, ensuring compliance with Washington (WAC 246-272A) and Idaho (IDAPA 58.01.03) regulations. Here’s a concise breakdown of the key parts that keep your septic system running smoothly.

1. Septic Tank

The heart of the system, the septic tank, is a watertight container (typically concrete) that collects wastewater from your home. It separates solids (sludge) and scum (oils, grease) from liquids, allowing partial treatment before liquids move to the drain field. In WA and ID, tanks must be at least 1,000 gallons for a 3-4 bedroom home, with two compartments for efficient separation.

2. Drain Field (Leach Field)

The drain field disperses treated liquid (effluent) from the tank into the soil for final treatment. Perforated pipes in gravel-filled trenches allow effluent to seep into the ground, where soil filters it. Proper setbacks—100 ft from wells in WA, per local codes in ID—are critical to prevent contamination.

3. Pipes and Fittings

Inlet pipes carry wastewater from your home to the tank, while outlet pipes move effluent to the drain field. In Idaho, pipes must be schedule 40 ABS or equivalent for durability. Baffles inside the tank prevent solids from clogging the system, and inspection ports allow access for maintenance.

4. Pump and Electrical Panel (If Applicable)

For non-gravity systems, like mound or aerobic units, a pump moves effluent to the drain field. The electrical panel controls the pump and alarms, which alert you to issues like high water levels. Washington mandates annual inspections for pumped systems, and both states require weatherproof panels to withstand our harsh winters.

5. Soil and Site Conditions

While not a physical component, the surrounding soil and site layout are vital. Soil type determines drainage rates, and local health districts (Spokane Regional Health District or Panhandle Health District) evaluate sites to ensure compliance with setbacks and capacity requirements.

Why It Matters

Each component must function properly to avoid backups, environmental harm, or costly repairs. Regular maintenance—like pumping every 3-5 years and inspecting electrical systems—keeps your system compliant and efficient.

Trust MAGNUS Solutions, LLC in Spokane and Coeur d'Alene for expert installation, repairs, and maintenance. Need a system check? Contact us today!