How is the effectiveness of septic systems primarily monitored?

The effectiveness of septic systems is primarily monitored by inspecting the tank for solids accumulation. This is critical because septic tanks are designed to separate solids from liquids and allow the liquid effluent to flow into the drain field or leach field. Over time, solids can build up in the tank, leading to a decrease in the system's capacity to treat wastewater effectively.

When solids accumulate to a certain level, it can lead to clogs, reduced flow, and potential backups into the home or surface discharge, which poses health risks and environmental hazards. Regular inspections ensure that homeowners can maintain the proper functioning of the septic system, mitigate issues before they escalate, and prolong the life of the system.

Other methods, like checking soil pH levels or assessing water table levels, are not directly related to monitoring the specific performance of septic systems. Additionally, while inspecting for odors can indicate a problem, it does not provide a quantitative measure of the system's effectiveness compared to directly checking for solids accumulation in the tank.