Septic Tank: The BOD5 Measurement
In EPA/625/R-00/008, the EPA defines several standard measurements for septic tank performance. One of these measurements is BOD5, or biological oxygen demand.
In EPA/625/R-00/008, the EPA defines several standard measurements for septic tank performance. One of these measurements is BOD5, or biological oxygen demand.
So, how does a homeowner know how effectively the septic tank is actually performing these functions? Are there standards set by the industry or government?
How many people owning a septic tank know that it has a service life that can be extended indefinitely? How many of these people know how their septic tank is designed to function?
Without a doubt, septic tank problems are the last issue anyone wants to deal with at any time of the year. Septic system replacement is over prescribed by septic pumpers and contractors.
Incoming water into a septic system’s drainfield has to be absorbed back into the ground. This has to happen for this system to function as it is the only way the system creates capacity for more incoming sewage. If the drainfield’s ability to pass water to the ground is impaired, the problems occur.
Septic systems are one of the most expensive assets most homeowners own. But, because it lies beneath the ground, most homeowners have no idea on how septic systems work.
It is not logical to claim that liquefying organic waste in a septic tank will improve the operating condition of a poorly performing septic system. The ideal situation is to keep solids inside the septic tank.