Baffles in the septic tank slow incoming waste water and prevent sewage from flowing directly through the tank. This decomposition liquifies up to 50 percent of the solids and scum. The liquid is carried out into the absorption field, and undigestible solids remain in the tank as sludge. Each time raw sewage enters the tank, an equal amount of fluid is forced out of the tank. The fluid leaving the tank is called effluent and can contain disease organisms.
Further digestion is carried on by bacteria in the soil of the absorption field.
The effluent is allowed to trickle into the soil in the absorption field. Never dispose of effluent directly onto the ground surface or into a body of water. Precautions For your septic system to work effectively, take appropriate precautions in everyday use of the system. This decreases efficiency and increases maintenance costs. Avoid pouring liquid fats, grease, or oils down the kitchen sink drain.