Top of the Industry Septic Installations, Well Drilling, and Irrigation Installations

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What Is Septic Tank Sludge?

Septic tank sludge is a common problem for homeowners with septic tanks. This gunky, gooey mess can impede the performance of your tank and cause all sorts of problems. What is septic tank sludge, and what can you do about it? In this blog post from your septic tank experts at Willey & Co., we will discuss four things that make up septic tank sludge and how to remove it from your system in Delaware!

opening a septic tank

General Definition of Septic Tank Sludge

Septic tank sludge is a thick, gooey substance that can build up in your septic tank over time, and is also referred to as “bio-solids.” There are actually three distinct layers that exist in most septic systems — scum, sludge, and effluent.

septic tank exterior

Solids

Non-liquid elements like hair, food scraps, bones, and paper products can end up in your septic tank. These solids will eventually break down, but in the meantime, they can contribute to septic tank sludge.

removing septic sludge

Fats and Bacteria

Cooking oils and grease can also end up in your septic tank. These fats will float to the top of the tank and solidify, contributing to septic tank sludge. This sludge layer is fed to anaerobic bacteria that grow in the bottom of your tank and thrive on it. These bacteria also contribute to the sludge layer as they expire.

septic sludge

Sludge: The Bottom Layer

Sludge is the bottom layer of the septic tank, and it is made up of all the solids that have not yet broken down. Sludge can cause problems because it can clog the pipes and drains in your septic system.

If you think you have septic tank sludge, it is important to call a professional septic tank cleaning service. At Willey & Co., we have the experience and expertise to remove septic tank sludge from your system quickly and efficiently. Contact us today in Delaware!

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