Septic & Sewer Glossary for Erie Homeowners

An advanced septic system that uses oxygen to accelerate waste breakdown. Produces cleaner effluent than conventional systems. Sometimes required in Erie County for challenging soil conditions.

A wall or partition inside the septic tank that directs flow and prevents solids and scum from leaving the tank. Damaged baffles are a common cause of drain field failure.

A network of perforated pipes buried in gravel trenches where liquid effluent from the septic tank is distributed into the soil for natural filtration.

A small concrete or plastic box that evenly distributes effluent from the septic tank to multiple drain field lines. A failed distribution box causes uneven loading and field failure.

The liquid wastewater that flows from the septic tank to the drain field after solids have settled. Effluent still contains contaminants that are filtered by soil in the drain field.

A filter installed at the septic tank outlet that prevents solids from reaching the drain field. Inexpensive insurance against drain field failure. Should be cleaned at each pumping.

A plumbing device that intercepts fats, oils, and grease before they enter the septic system. Required for commercial kitchens and recommended for homes with heavy cooking.

A sealed tank with no drain field that stores all wastewater until pumped. A last-resort option in Erie County areas where soil conditions cannot support any treatment system.

A soil test that measures how quickly water drains through the soil. Required before installing a new septic system in Erie County to ensure the soil can handle effluent.

The process of removing accumulated solids (sludge and scum) from a septic tank using a vacuum truck. Erie County recommends pumping every 3 to 5 years.

A drain field built above the natural ground level using imported fill material. Used in Erie County areas where the water table is too high for conventional in-ground fields.

An underground container where household wastewater collects, and solids settle out. Bacteria break down organic matter. Tanks are typically 1,000 to 1,500 gallons for Erie homes.

The floating layer of grease, oils, and lightweight solids that forms at the top of a septic tank. The outlet baffle prevents scum from entering the drain field.

The layer of settled solids at the bottom of a septic tank. Pumping removes this sludge before it accumulates to the point of entering and clogging the drain field.

A PA-certified official who inspects and permits septic systems. Erie County SEOs oversee all septic installations, repairs, and real estate transaction inspections.

The layers and characteristics of soil at a building site. Erie County's clay-heavy soils and high water table significantly affect septic system design and drain field performance.