The need for waste management is an issue as old as civilization itself. Since people began living in groups, handling waste has been a matter of sanitation and good manners. The modern septic system is a relatively new development, but there’s a long history leading up to its origin. It may surprise you to learn that the modern septic system came into being nearly by accident.
For many years, outhouses were the norm. No matter the weather, people had to make their way to the outhouse to relieve themselves. It’s not a shock that someone eventually came to believe there must be a better way. In the 1860s, Jean-Louis Mouras decided to do something about it. The ancient Greeks had already come up with the concept of the flush toilet, but Mouras had the idea to use clay pipes to carry wastewater out of the house. From there the waste went into a cesspool, which was routinely emptied. Does this sound familiar? It was basically pipes carrying waste to a concrete tank outside. Mouras then came up with the idea for a sealed tank to hold the wastewater, which he called “fousse Mouras” or Mouras’s pit. This tank allowed overflow to travel to the cesspool.
For ten years, Mouras used this tank without opening it and had no issues. He then decided to crack the lid and see what was happening inside the tank. To his amazement, the tank was practically empty! There was only a thin layer of scum left behind. Wanting to share his design with others, he called on a scientist, Abbe Moigno, to help him develop a prototype. Within two years, people in the United States were using this design and his invention was becoming popular.
Most of the early septic systems in the United States were very similar to Mouras’s design and were constructed using concrete or steel. Septic systems were common across the continent by about the 1940s, but many of those systems began to fail in the 1960s. This led to the development of improvements in the design, and many septic systems today are made of more advanced materials. These include polyurethane and other plastics, fiberglass and precast concrete. What’s more, today’s systems are typically aerobic, which is much more efficient than the anaerobic systems of the past.
One major shift in the use of septic systems is that, today, the importance of regular maintenance is more widely understood. While septic systems can be expected to last 20 to 30 years, barring problems like damage from flooding, roots or traffic, routine maintenance is vital to ensure it reaches its full lifespan. Septic tanks require pumping every two to four years to stay in good condition, and the company you hire to pump your tank should also perform an inspection to make sure your system is working effectively. Modern septic systems are designed not just to hold waste, but to filter wastewater into the ground in a way that’s safe and sanitary.
When you need help with your septic system, trust Trinity Liquid Waste. A family-owned business, we’ve been proudly serving customers throughout the Bay area for over 25 years. Specializing in residential and commercial septic and sewer services, our professional team provides exceptional service at affordable rates. Whether you need routine maintenance or 24-hour emergency service, we’re here for you. Call (510) 874-6489 or contact us through our website for more information.