Serving the Greater Lansing Area for over 30 years, we serve clients by providing septic tank cleaning services with superior professionalism and communication.
All About Outlet Devices
What is an outlet device?
“Outlet device” is a blanket term which describes any one of a number of components designed to control the contents leaving your septic system. These devices are meant to control what type of contents leave your tank - not how much.
Why does a septic system need an outlet device?
A properly functioning septic system uses an outlet device to make sure that only liquid effluent leaves the septic tank and travels to the drainfield. The outlet device’s job is to stop any solids from exiting the tank. Solids that leave a septic tank and make it to the drainfield will, over time, cause the drainfield to fail as they compact and clog the pores of the drainfield thereby eliminating the drainfield’s ability to allow water to pass out of the system.
What kind of outlet devices are available?
Outlet devices come in several “flavors”. All outlet devices share a common goal of allowing effluent (liquid) to pass through while encouraging solids to remain in the tank. Some outlet devices add the ability to filter particles down to a certain size (often 1/16” or smaller) while others provide no filtration.
We exclusively install and recommend outlet devices which feature filtration as this dramatically helps to extend the life of your septic system.
All About Septic Tank Filters
Most people are familiar with oil filters in their cars so it makes a good metaphor for talking about septic effluent filters.
Effluent filters are, to your septic system, what an oil filter is to your car. Replacing a septic system can cost as much, or sometimes more than, replacing your vehicle. I’m sure you wouldn’t drive your car without taking care of the oil filter, but many people use their septic system without taking care of their effluent filter.