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Effluent Filters Protect Your investment

Filters 101

A clogged drainfield is one of the most common (and expensive) causes of septic system failure. However, a septic tank outlet filter can be a simple solution to help you avoid clogged drain field pipes. A septic tank outlet filter, also known as an effluent filter or grey water filter, protects your septic system by filtering effluent as it leaves the septic tank.

The septic tank filter can improve the quality of the effluent by reducing the level of solids leaving the septic tank which aids in extending the life of the wastewater land management area.  The filter is a screening device made of slotted plastic, and is installed in the outlet "T" of a septic tank, helping prevent anything other than liquids from getting into (and potentially clogging) the drainfield. It's slots are small enough that it allows the liquid to pass through while the larger solids will remain in the tank. 

Cleaning your Filter
Over time, an excessive build-up on the filter of beneficial bacterial bio-mass reduces flow and can clog the filter. This means that some simple routine maintenance is required to remove the excess bio -mass however, because filters have no moving parts, maintenance is minimal and quite simple. In some instances, the bio – mass will simply fall off the filter while it is still in place in the septic tank. The cost of maintenance required is a small price to pay to protect the wastewater land management area.

Why Does The Outlet Filter Become Clogged?
A properly working septic tank outlet filter will become clogged as effluent is filtered and leaves the septic tank. As the solid materials accumulate over time, they progressively clog more and more of the filter, requiring maintenance. Your septic tank outlet filter needs maintenance just like the rest of your septic system. They should also be cleaned when the tank is pumped.

When Should The Outlet Filter Be Cleaned

Septic tanks need to be periodically pumped out to remove sludge and scum which do not break down quickly with the normal digestive processed in the tank. Under normal conditions, your effluent filter will function for a year before cleaning is necessary. At a minimum, the filter should be cleaned whenever the tank is pumped, at least every 1 to 2 years.

Do I Really Need An Outlet Filter?

Septic tank filters are an affordable and cost-effective way to improve the efficiency of your septic tank system while protecting and extending the useful life of the drain-field. They can easily be installed into existing tanks and are designed to prevent solids from leaving the septic tank. Ask about a Filter for your system!