1. Your Septic Tank Has Two Baffles

Every septic tank contains two baffles, one at the inlet and one at the outlet. The goal of both baffles involves routing waste water through the tank, while ensuring that solids remain safely segregated. To appreciate the importance of the baffles, you must first understand the rough composition of the waste inside of your septic tank.

Waste in a septic tank stratifies into three layers. At the top lies a layer of floating scum. In the middle sits a layer of water, while at the bottom of the tank lies a layer of sludge formed from broken-down solid waste. Without a baffle, incoming waste would land on top of the three layers. The inlet baffle instead directs incoming waste into the middle layer.

This redirection serves three purposes. First, the lower position gives the solid waste more time to separate from the liquid waste. Second, this position prevents the scum layer from clogging up the inlet pipe. Finally, the baffle reduces the turbulence of the waste water moving into the tank. This reduction ensures that the three layers of waste remain properly separated.

The outlet baffle has a similar shape and orientation, meant to prevent scum from moving into the drainfield, where it would soon cause serious problems. Instead, the outlet baffle ensures that only waste from the relatively clean water layer moves out into the drainfield.

2. Two Types of Baffles Exist

Septic baffles break down into two main categories: wall baffles and sanitary tees. Older septic tanks - especially those made from concrete - tend to contain wall baffles. In most cases, wall baffles also consist of concrete, and are built directly into the side of the tank. Wall baffles also give incoming solids more space, thus reducing the likelihood of clogs.

That said, wall baffles have gradually become less common as contractors move more towards sanitary tees. Sanitary tees consist of plastic carefully shaped to reduce the risk of solids becoming stuck and creating clogs. Sanitary tees can also accommodate effluent screens, which further reduce the risk of solids moving out into the drainfield.

3. Baffles Break Down Over Time

Homeowners must understand that baffles tend to become damaged and worn as time goes on. A worn, cracked, or missing baffle reduces the effectiveness of your septic system, while greatly increasing the risk of clogs and other problems. For instance, baffle problems can lead to plumbing backups, noticeable sewage smells, and soggy, unsanitary drainfields.

Only a trained septic contractor can identify a baffle problem, since this diagnosis involves visually inspecting the inside of the septic tank. In some cases, a contractor can retrofit an older concrete tank with a modern sanitary tee. However, this job requires a lot of caution, as removing the remains of the baffle can easily damage tank walls.

In some cases, a contractor may suggest that your best option involves installing a whole new septic tank. For more information about the state of your septic system's baffles, please contact Upstate Septic Tank, LLC.