Why should surface water not be disposed of through a septic tank system?

Disposing of surface water through a septic tank system is problematic primarily because it can overload the tank and flood the drain field. Septic systems are designed to process specific amounts of sewage and waste water generated from household activities. When additional water, such as that from rainwater or surface runoff, is introduced into the system, it can exceed its designed capacity.

Excessive water in the septic tank can lead to a failure in the natural treatment processes. A flooded drain field can prevent proper filtration, cause untreated waste to rise to the surface, and overwhelm the system, potentially leading to backups and environmental contamination. This not only diminishes the effectiveness of the septic system but can also lead to costly repairs and environmental issues.

Understanding this fundamental aspect of septic system functionality is crucial for maintaining efficiency and compliance with health regulations. Reducing surface water flow into septic systems is key to ensuring they operate effectively and avoid systemic failures.