umpisäiliöitä

Umpisäiliö, also known as a septic tank, is a watertight container used in wastewater treatment systems, particularly in areas without a connection to a municipal sewer system. It is the primary component of an on-site septic system. The tank receives all wastewater from a building, including sewage from toilets, sinks, showers, and laundry. Inside the umpisäiliö, solids in the wastewater settle to the bottom, forming a sludge layer, while lighter materials like grease and oil float to the top, creating a scum layer. The remaining liquid, known as effluent, occupies the middle layer.

The decomposition of organic matter within the umpisäiliö is facilitated by anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in the absence of oxygen. This biological process partially breaks down the solid waste. Over time, the accumulated sludge and scum need to be periodically removed, typically through pumping by a professional service, to maintain the tank's efficiency and prevent system failure.

The treated effluent then flows out of the umpisäiliö to a secondary treatment stage, often a drain field or leach field. This area consists of underground trenches or beds filled with gravel or other porous material, where the effluent is further filtered and purified by soil and microbial action before it can safely leach into the groundwater. The design and capacity of an umpisäiliö vary depending on the number of occupants and the expected volume of wastewater. Regular maintenance, including periodic inspections and pumping, is crucial for the longevity and proper functioning of the entire septic system.