WEEK 13 REPORTING

(CLEAN-OUTS, VENTS & VENTING SYSTEM, SANITARY SYSTEM PROBLEM, HOUSE

DRAIN APPLIANCES, AND PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM)

DECEMBER 2, 2021

JAZMIN JOY CAPRICHO

SHAHRURAH BALBUENA
CHRIZELLE ANGELIE RAMOS
CHARLES CRESINO
JIMUEL MATANGUIHAN
MARK ANGELO DESABILLE
ANALYN VILLANUEVA
CLEAN-OUTS

Cleanout

A pipe fitting with a removable plug giving access to

a soil or waste pipe for inspection or cleaning. The drain
cleanout is a direct access point to the main sewer line
inside or outside of the home. It can also be referred to as
the main house trap when it is located inside the home or
the sewer cleanout when it's located outside the home.

Despite the slight difference in terms, the function

of this cleanout remains the same: This addition to the
home plumbing system is intended to give plumbing
professionals an easy-to-access point through which they
can reach clogs and sewage backup in the main sewage line that extends from the foundation of
the home, under the ground, and out to the municipal sewage system, a private septic tank, or
the portion of main house drain piping downstream of the house trap.

A plumbing cleanout is usually the same diameter as the drain pipe where it will be
installed. The extension is the portion of the body that the cap is threaded into and is designed
to be easily accessible in the event of a blockage. The cap should be 2 inches above the level of
the floor or the ground outside.

Cleanout Location

A cleanout may be inside a building or outdoors. A cleanout that is outside the building
should have a cap visible within a few feet of the building’s foundation. A cleanout located inside
may be inside a wall or floor. A cleanout may be easily accessible in structure that have basement.
Cleanouts are usually in the drain where there is 90˚turn and positioned in such a way that when

you remove the cap you can easily work on the blockage.
The Reason You Need Cleanouts

When a blockage occurs in a sewer line, it's often formed by compacted waste matter,
although tree roots, poor venting and issues with the septic system can also be responsible. A
sewer auger, which is usually a motorized tool, can handle most compacted debris, but unlike a
toilet or auger, you can't insert it into the sewer line through a toilet or fixture drain. It's too big
and could crack the porcelain or pipe. That's why you need sewer cleanouts.

The lateral waste line in a typical house, which is the pipe that connects the house
plumbing to the municipal sewer or the septic tank, typically has more than one cleanout. One
or two are often buried in the ground along the path of the pipe, and another is typically just
outside the house. In colder climates, you may find at least one cleanout in the basement or crawl
space, where it's protected from freezing; where sewer lines are buried below the frost line, there
is rarely a cleanout located in the yard.

Cleanouts are strategically placed to allow access to all sections of the sewer line. The sweep of
the fitting makes it easy to insert an auger and reach a blockage located downstream from the
cleanout. When it turns out a blockage is upstream of a particular cleanout, you have to access
it from another cleanout, because the auger can't go upstream. This is why the waste system
usually has more than one cleanout fitting.

Benefits of a Cleanout

1. Lower maintenance costs

The cleanout allows direct access to your property’s sewer lateral or drain. This mean a
plumbing expert can monitor the water flow from each tap in your home individually to
ensure there are no blockages or other pipe issues during their regular maintenance visits.

2. Cheaper and easier cleaning

Normally, a plumber would have remove your toilet or even go onto the roof in order to
clean your sewer lines. By having a sewer cleanout, they will have easy access to the sewer
or drain.
 3. Protects landscaping

One benefit which becomes apparent only in an emergency is the fact the sewer cleanout
help prevents the need to dig up your yard in the event of a major clog.

4. Backflow prevention

In the event of a major clog, the cleanout acts as an external drain. Uncapping the
cleanout will allow you to drain the excess water, preventing it from flooding your home. This
may also prove useful if there is an issue with the municipal sewer that is forcing water back
up.

Clearing a Blockage

A plumbing auger looks like a large power drill. Turn on the

auger and feed it into the cleanout extension. Some augers will
extend automatically to reach the clog. Use a garden hose with a
high pressure tip if you do not have access to an auger. Do not use
a hose if the cleanout is inside the home. Coat the threads of the
cap with pipe dope and tighten it into place with a pipe wrench to
provide a good seal against sewer gas.

Requirements/Regulations for Cleanout

• Each horizontal drainage pipe shall be provided with a cleanout at its upper terminal, and
each run of piping, which is more than 30.488 meters (100 feet) in total developed length
 shall be provided with a clean-out for each 30.48 meters (100 feet) or fraction thereof, in
length of such piping.
• Cleanouts are also required inside the building near connection between the building
drain and the building sewer or installed outside the building at the lower end of the
building drain and extended to grade.
• Cleanouts are not required on a horizontal drain less than 1.5m in length unless line is
serving sinks or urinals, nor on a short horizontal drainage pipe installed at a slope of 72˚
or less from the vertical line (or at an angle of 1/5 bend)

Sizes of Cleanouts

Sizes of cleanout shall be in conformity with the size of pipe served

SIZE OF PIPE SIZE OF THREADS PER

CLEANOUT 26.4MM
38mm 38mm 11-1/2
51mm 38mm 11-1/2
64mm 64mm 8
76mm 64mm 8
102mm & 89mm 8
larger

Cleanout Plugs

Cleanout plugs shall be copper alloy, plastic or other approved materials. Copper-alloy
cleanout plugs shall be limited for use only on metallic piping systems. Plastic cleanout plugs shall
conform to the referenced standards for plastic pipe fittings. Cleanout plugs shall have a raised
squared head, a countersunk square head or a countersunk slot head.
Cleanout Type

1. Double cleanout- the most popular type used for modern

installation, the double cleanout has two shafts which connect to the
lateral pipe from forming a ‘U’ shape. The cap closer to your home
provides easy access to the city end while the cap closer to the street
allows you to maintain the house end of the lateral.

2. Single cleanout- this type provides easy access to the

municipal end of your lateral, although the 45˚ angle does
not allow for access to the full pipe.

3. Test tee- this T-shaped cleanout permits access to both ends of the
lateral, but can be difficult to use for clearing blockages due to the 90˚
angle at the intersection.

Reference/s:

https://www.hunker.com/13417686/what-is-a-cleanout-in-plumbingYoung

https://www.hunker.com/13719081/what-is-a-sewer-cleanout

https://www.scribd.com/presentation/416144306/D-SANITARY-DRAINAGE-ppt

https://homereference.net/sewer-clean-out/

https://up.codes/s/cleanouts-required

https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-unclog-a-drain2.htm

https://www.thespruce.com/sewer-clean-out-where-to-find-it-3973572

https://inhouseplumbingcompany.com/2020/03/25/sewer-cleanout/
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.pseau.org/outils/ouvrages/pc
ws_philippine_regulations_on_sanitation_and_wastewater_systems_2006.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjtgMmz5r
f0AhUyxYsBHXedCB4QFnoECAQQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1ht1_Nz1X9WDebddM32K4Y

VENTS & VENTING SYSTEM

- A system of pipes supplying a flow of air to or from a drainage system or providing

circulation of air within the system to protect trap seals from siphonage and back pressure

TWO TYPES OF VENTS

1. Main soil and waste vent

2. Main vent

1. Main soil and waste vent

 • The portion of soil stack pipe above the highest installed fixture branch extending through
the roof.
• It serves as the terminal for the main vent and other vents of the plumbing installations
• The vent pipe used to ventilate the soil and waste
• The vertical piping that terminates in a roof vent and carries off the vapors of a plumbing
system.
• It is recommended to use the soil vent pipe with a greater dimension which will prevent
the blockages. Generally, the 6-inch diameter size (Or around 150mm) soil vent pipes
should be used because they are more durable and does not undergo any blockages.

GENERAL CONDITIONS:

1. It must be installed as direct as possible.

2. Short radius fittings should be avoided, because it reduces the flow or air.
3. As much as possible, long horizontal line must be avoided.
4. It should have the same diameter as the soil or waste pipe.

The National Plumbing Code on Extension of Soil or Waste Stack to the Roof Provides that:
“All roof extensions of soil and waste stack shall run full size at least 30 centimeters above the
roof and when the roof is used for other purposes than weather protection, such extension shall
not be less than 2.00 meters above the roof… the roof terminal of any stack or vent, if within 3.00
meters of any door, window, scuttle, or air shaft, shall extend at least 1.00 meter above the
same.”
2. Main vent

• The principal portion of the vent pipe system to which

vent braches may be connected. It serves as a
collecting vent line.
• Serves as a terminal of the smallest units and grouped
fixture trap ventilation.
• Is the source through which air is admitted to the
plumbing system.
• The main vent is connected full size at their base to the
main soil or waste pipe at or below the lowest fixture
branch and should extend undiminished in size above
the roof or should be connected with the main soil
vent at least 1.00 meter above the highest fixture
branch.
• Also serves as a relief vent for any back pressure. It
must be free from off-sets to allow free movement of
air
 A. INDIVIDUAL VENT (BACK VENT)

• The portion of the vent pipe system which serves a single trap.
• Should be connected close to the fixture trap as possible.
• It should be connected to the main vent above the overflow line of the fixture.
• The most effective means of venting fixture trap to prevent minus or plus pressure.

…
B. UNIT VENT (COMMON VENT)

• The portion of the vent pipe system which ventilates

two fixture of similar design installed on opposite
sides of a partition.
• An arrangement of venting so installed that one vent
pipe serve two (2) traps.
C. CIRCUIT VENT (LOOPW VENT)

• The portion of the drainage system

which ventilates two or more
fixture traps that discharge into a
soil or waste branch.
• This is employed where two or
more fixture traps are installed on a
horizontal soil or waste branch.
• The use of circuit vent generally
reduces the cost of the plumbing
installation
• A vents serving two or more traps
and extending from in front of the
last fixture connection of a
horizontal branch to be vent stack.

Circuit vent means a method of venting two to eight traps or trapped fixtures without providing
an individual vent for each trap or fixture
It’s an efficient method of venting a battery of plumbing fixtures with one single vent.

Battery – a group of two or more similar plumbing fixtures discharging into a common waste or
soil branch.
F. WET VENT

• Vertical pipe of the plumbing system

used a ventilation of the plumbing
installation and fixture traps which at
the same time receives and convey
liquid waste discharge from the fixtures.
• An oversized pipe functioning both as a
soil or waste pipe and a vent.

• Widely used for small groups of

bathroom fixtures particularly on a one
or two storey re sidential house.s
G. LOOPED VENT

• Used on fixtures in a room away from partitions.

• Common to beauty parlors, barbers, shops, and dental clinics and surgical rooms.
Tinatawag rin itong Island vent, Island Sink Vent, or Bow vent.
• When an individual vent cannot be installed because a sink isn’t next to a wall, an island
sink vent is a possible solution.
When an individual vent cannot be installed because a sink isn’t next to a wall, an island sink vent
is a possible solution.

Relief and Yoke Vent only serve the fixture trap indirectly.
Their main function is to maintain the balance atmospheric pressure inside the waste pipe
system.

A. RELIEF VENT

• The portion of the vent pipe installation that permits additional circulation of air around
the drainage pipes to eliminate back pressure and retardation of waste flow.
• Is installed to ventilate the soil and waste pipe and the connecting branches other than
the fixture traps.
• Where change of directions are made, relief vent is as must.
B. YOKE VENT

• A yoke vent is a pipe that connects upwards

from a soil stack or vertical waste stack to a
higher location in order to prevent pressure
changes in the stack pipe. Proper drain venting
could be prevented by those pressure
changes.
• On a long vertical soil pipe, a relief vent is
installed at 3 to 5 floor intervals.
• In this case, the relief vent is referred to as the
Yoke or By-pas Ventilation.
Required in tall buildings ang yoke vents.
 • Dry Vent - a vent that does not carry liquid or water-borne wastes.
• Local Vent - a pipe or shaft to convey foul air from a plumbing fixture or a room to the
outer air. Commonly used in bathroom without windows.
• Stack Vent - the extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain
connected to the stack.
• Vent Stack - the vertical vent pipe installed primarily for providing circulation of air to and
from any part of the soil, waste of the drainage system.. The Uppermost end above the
roof is called Vent Stack Through Roof (VSTR)

REGULATIONS

• Each trap shall be protected against siphonage and back-pressure through venting.
• Vents are not required on a primart settling tank interceptor which dischargers through
a horizontal indirect waste pipe into a secondary inceptor. The secondary interceptor
shall be properly tapped and vented.
• Vents are not required for traps serving sinks in an island bar counter.
• Such sink shall be discharge by means of an approved indirect waste pipe into a floor sink
or other approved type receptor.

SIZES OF VENTS

• The size of vent piping shall be determined from its length and the total number of fixture
units connected thereto.
• The diameter of an individual vent shall not be less than 32 mm nor less in size than one
half (1/2) the diameter of the drain to which it is connected.
•

I. INTRODUCTION

VENT SYSTEM

A system of pipes supplying a flow of to or from a drainage system or providing a

circulation of air within the system to protect trap seals from siphonage and back pressure. It is
also intended to maintain a balanced atmospheric pressure inside the system.
II. VENT PIPE

A flue or pipe connecting any interior space

in a building with the outer air for purposes of
ventilation; any small pipe extending from any of
the various plumbing fixtures in a structure to the
vent stack.

COMMON VENT PIPES MATERIAL

Cast iron Copper

 Ductile Brass
cast iron

Galvanized
steel
Schedule
40, ABS,
DWV

Galvanized Series
wrought 1000,
iron PVC,
DWV

Lead

III. VENT STACK

It is the vertical vent pipe installed primarily for providing circulation of air to and from
any part of the soil, waste of the drainage system. The uppermost end above the roof has
traditionally been referred to as Vent Stack Through Roof (VSTR)
COMMON VENT STACK MATERIAL

1. Copper

2. Cast iron

3. Galvanized wrought iron

4. PVC
STACK VENT

The extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain connected to the
stack. Also called soil vent, waste vent.

IV. IMPORTANCE OF VENTING SYSTEM

1. Release of Pressure

A plumbing vent, also known as a vent stack, is more than just a pipe. It runs from a
plumbing fixture through the roof. Plumbing vents let air pressure ease out through the plumbing
system. So, while these vents do let air enter, their primary job is to release pressure in the
plumbing. If you don’t have plumbing vents, dangerous sewer gases can build up and make it
hard for water to easily pass through the pipes. A clogged vent is a problem because air can’t
escape, not because it can’t get in.
2. Gravity, Air and Traps

Gravity and air work to push water down the drain, and they do a good job. Many home
drains have a trap that creates a low area that’s filled with water even after the basin is emptied.
The trap’s function is to assure no dangerous sewer gases go up the pipe and through the drain
into the house. Because the trap remains filled, sewer gases remain in the pipes. A plumbing vent
system lets air escape as water passes through the trap so water remains there.

3. Avoid Risks to Health

You need plumbing vents to keep your house safe. All your plumbing fixtures should be
well ventilated. Make sure all the vents meet in the attic so you make fewer holes in your roof.
When air passes through pipes freely, a suction effect is prevented thanks to plumbing vents. As
a result, dangerous gases can’t find their way into your house. Suction is caused by water being
pulled into the sewer line. If no water was dragged in, there’s no suction to help gases get into
the house and make its occupants sick. With well-functioning vents, your home will be free of
such risks.
SANITARY SYSTEM PROBLEMS

I. INTRODUCTION

Loss of Trap Seal

• The loss of a trap seal will usually result in foul and objectionable gases and odors entering a
building from the system of discharge pipework.
• It is for these reasons that much importance is placed upon retention of the water seal in all
trap. Trap seal may be lost in several ways. Some reasons may be attributed to bad system
design or installation techniques. Others are more natural or the result or particular
cimcumstances which may cause the loss of water seal.
• The common circumstances are self siphonage, induce siphonage, back pressure, capillary
action, wavering out, evaporation, momentum and leakage.

1) Self Siphonage
 This is caused by a moving plug or charge of water running out of a steep-sided sanitary
appliance such as a wash basin. The plug of water moves through the trap, pushing the air on the
outlet side of trap in front of it, thereby creating a partial vacuum in the branch discharge pipe
which causes siphonage to occur and loss of the trap seal.

The technical term for the partial vacuum or negative pressure zone is ‘hydraulic jump’.

How to prevent :

Self siphonage is usually prevented by one or more of the following:

1. By fitting a P trap to the sanitary appliance (thus avoiding vertical branch discharge pipes).

2. Ensuring that the branch discharge pipe length and slope do not exceed those recommended.

3. By fitting a ventilating or anti-siphon pipe adjacent to the trap outlet.

4. By fitting a larger diameter branch discharge pipe to the trap outlet.

5. By correct design of sanitary appliance.

6. By fitting a resealing or anti-siphon trap to the sanitary appliance.

2) Induce Siphonage

This is caused by the discharge of water waste from one sanitary appliance, pulling or
siphoning the seal of a trap of another appliance connected to the same branch discharge pipe.

How to prevent :

Some ventilation of the system may be required if induced siphonage is to be prevented.

3) Compression or Back Pressure

Compression of air at or near the base of a discharge pipe may occurs. As water flows
down a vertical stacks it takes some air with it. As this water changes direction at the base of the
stack (from the outside of the vertical pipe to the invert of the near-horizontal drain pipe) the
pipe bore becomes momentarily full of water, so preventing the free flow of air up and down the
discharge stack.

How to prevent :

Compression and back pressure are prevented by not fitting small or sharp radius bends
or having branch discharge pipes connected near to the base of a discharge stack. Correct
practice is to fit large radius bends and to ensure inlet connections are not made close to the
base of the stack.

4) Capillary Action
 Loss of seal by capillarity occurs when a piece of porous material such as threads or string
from a mop or dishcloth are deposited into the water seal and over the outlet invert of a trap,
this will most commonly happen to appliances such as kitchen or cleaners sinks fitted with S
pattern traps.

How to prevent :

Capillarity is prevented by regular cleaning of the inside of the trap and branch discharge
pipe or by laying a loose mesh strainer into the waste fitting of the appliance to catch and retain
loose porous strands which may be contained in certain types of waste water.

5) Wavering Out

The effect of a high-velocity fluctuating wind passing over the top of an exposed discharge
stack ventilating pipe will create varying air pressures and draughts within the pipework system
which may cause trap seals to fluctuate or waver, resulting in loss of water from the seal.

How to prevent :

Fluctuating, pressures caused by wind are best prevented by locating the vent terminal
position away from exposed locations and ensuring that a terminal grating is fitted to all
ventilating pipework.
6) Evaporation

This occurs usually in traps connected to sanitary appliances which are not used regularly
or where the ambient temperatures are relatively high. Evaporation is more usual in the summer
month when temperatures are higher or when buildings are left empty or unattended due to
holiday periods.

7) Momentum

The most usual cause of loss of trap seal by momentum is when quantity of water is
quickly discharged into a gully or washdown WC pan and the discharging water carries away the
water forming the trap seal.
8) Leakage

crack on pipes

Leakage

Trap occasionally loose their seals due to a leak on the fitting bellow water-seal level. The
leak may be due to a loose or badly jointed access bowl or cleaning eye or in the case of soft
materials, caused by impact resulting in fracture and damage to the trap body.

Expertise in need of repair leakage

The work to repair the leak involves two tasks that require expertise:

1. Determine the cause and location of the leak.

2. Techniques and rules of waterproof material installed correctly.

The material used is known as water-resistant material or material waterproofing. This

water-resistant material widely available in the market with different brand names depending on
manufacturer and distributor of such materials. Use of fishing gear, equipment and means of
proof is installed will determine the quality of water proof work.

How can happen release unwanted leakage occurs.

However it can occur in places and at unexpected times. Leaks are a form of defects in
the building and it can be caused by several factors:

1. Construction design.

2. Low Mutu kerja during construction.

3. Durability of materials.
4. The influence of the environment.

5. Lack of maintenance activities.

6. The use of the building, misconduct and external pressures.

Must be corrected release leak repair is the need to premises / building:

1. Meet the real purpose of the premises / building constructed.

2. Extend the economic life of the premises / building.

3. Reduce the potential for damage to buildings or equipment which caused disruption to
building operations.

4. Maintain the market value. Maintain the aesthetic value.

5. Increase worker productivity.

6. Ensure the safety and comfort of residents.

7. Meet the legal requirements of the building.

Reference:

https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffanyv88.com%3A443%2Fhttps%2Fwww.slideshare.net%2Fnosuhaila%2Fcara2-
mengatasi-adang-air-ciap%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2GKqPMy0D-jnx_iQZELaaA00DVwgYRKBgdpSjF-
eO7NkVcu87D6efRUxg&h=AT3sEdACzyFKCgo5DZ7wsXKkhEXB4-
LVI6EmpvMsb6YDnEj6RRgOEwp3g-kwL-wRnSGDpgBrsVn2ESGSaj4e3FJ6EVUjyJnKwTU25noAQ-
rtq36Cxt8-X7JQIKsHU9p0G0g97Q

HOUSE DRAIN APPLIANCES

• GREASE TRAP

o A trap in a drain or waste pipe to prevent grease from passing into a sanitary sewer
lines and system.
o Each grease trap shall have an approved water seal of not less than 51 mm in
depth or the diameter of its outlet, whichever is greater.
o Grease traps are generally small.
 o Grease traps feature materials, such as steel, plastic, fiberglass and PVC.
o This type of trap is used in large hotels restaurants or industries where large
quantity of oils waste is generated.

When wastewater enters a grease trap, the flow rate is reduced enough so the
wastewater is given enough time to cool and separate into 3 layers. The grease rises to the top
inside the interceptor and is trapped using a system of baffles. Solids settle at the bottom and
the separated clear water escapes under an outlet baffle. Many grease traps also have strainers
for collecting solid debris, which reduces the amount of solids that settle at the bottom of the
trap.

• HOUSE TRAP

o its collects water to block odors from escaping through the drains.
o Place in the house drain immediately inside the foundation wall of the building.
• DRAIN TILE

o drain tile is actually not tile at all. When used in the construction industry it
actually refers to the drainage pipe.
o It is used to prevent groundwater from seeping through the basement walls and
foundations.
 2 DIFFERENT TYPES OF DRAIN TILE SYSTEMS – INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL.

• INTERNAL

o An internal system is when the drain tile pipe is installed inside of a building’s
foundation beneath the floor slab.
o To successfully remove water from your home.

• EXTERNAL

o An exterior drainage system directs outside water to a street’s sewer, draining the
soil around your home and relieving pressure from the home’s foundation.
• GARAGE TRAPS

o a.k.a “Garage Catch Basin”

o It can collect and separate wastes such as grease, gas, oil etc.
o help maintain proper drainage and catch debris.

• BACK FLOW VALVES

o Used in House drain to prevent the unlikely occurrence of back flows.

• THE SEWAGE EJECTORS

o Pump the wastes up from the sump pit to the sewers (which are usually higher
than basement levels).
SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM

The Sewage and its Disposal

The collection and safe disposal of human wastes are among the most critical problems of
environmental health. Recent statistical reports revealed that most of the water borne diseases
such as dysentery, typhoid, diarrhea and other intestinal disorders are prevalent in areas where
there is no proper and scientific Sewage Disposal System.
It was reported that when human wastes are deposited in a pit, typhoid and dysentery causing
organisms do not travel horizontally in the soil. These harmful bacteria nei ther move by
themselves, they were carried in some way. These harmful organisms are carried somewhere
through water flows, flies, rodents, cockroaches and other vermin which causes contamination.
The daily average volume of human waste or excreta per capita is about 80 grams of feces and
950 grams of urine. When diluted with water at the rate of 30 to 100 gal lons per day to form
sewage, the solid content becomes a very small portion expressed in milligrams per liter.
Of the total sewage solids, about 50% is organic and are subject to rotting. Small as it is in the
sewage, and as decomposition continues, it become odorous and dark in color. And whether
fresh or stale, it contains harmful organism that causes diseases..
It is therefore important not only to know the different types of sewage disposal systems, but
also to understand the scientific value of the system
Type of Sewage Disposal System
Sewage disposal system has four types:

1. The Cesspool
2. The Privy
3. The Septic Tank
4. The Public Sewer Line
The Cesspool is a hole in the ground curbed with stones, bricks, concrete hollow blocks, or other
materials laid in such a manner as to allow raw contaminated sew age to leach into the soil. The
organic wastes accumulate and finally disposed of by disintegration process.
The Privy is a concrete sealed vault with a wooden shelter constructed for the collection of raw
sewage. The disintegration of excrement is accomplished in the same manner as in a cesspool. It
is objectionable because of the danger of contaminating the source of water supply.
The Septic Tank is a device or receptacle used to expedite the decomposition of the elements
contained in a raw sewage waste. Raw sewage consists of water, and setleable solid called
organic materials that can be precipitated in a septic tank in a very short time.

The Public Sewer Line is a public sewage system, operated and maintained by the government
consisting of a sewage treatment plant that conveys the raw sewage from buildings and houses
to a disposal system.
Of these four types of sewage disposal, the cesspool and the privy are already obsolete. The
prevailing types recommended by the sanitary authorities are the Public Sewer line and the
Septic Tank.
Public Sewer Line
The Public Sewer Line is classified into three types according to the kind of waste it disposes
1. The Combination Public Sewer

2. The Sanitary Sewer

3. The Storm Drain

The Combination Public Sewer is the oldest type of public sewer that conveys both storm water
and sanitary wastes. This type of public sewer is already obsolete and no longer allowed by
sanitary authorities.
The Sanitary Sewer is a public sewer facility that carries regular sanitary wastes only It terminates
in a modern sewage dispersal plant Rainwater is not permitted to enter into this type of public
sewer.
The Sanitary Sewer is classified into two types:
1. The Intercepting or Trunk Line Sewer
2. The Tributary or Contributing Sewer
The Intercepting Sewer is a sanitary sewer that con veys sanitary waste to a dispersal plant. It is
commonly made of concrete pipe that varies in sizes from 0.60 to 3.00 meters in diameter. The
pipes are laid underground to a minimum depth of about 3 meters, depending upon the natural
contour of the ground.
The Tributary Sewer is classified as an intercepting sewer branch. The pipe is made of either
vitrified clay or concrete pipe laid in an open trench. It is generally smaller in diameter installed
not more than 3 meters below the street grade and terminate into the intercepting sewer
The Storm Drain is another kind of public sewer line that carries storm water It terminates in a
natural drain such as canals, lakes or rivers.
Manhole is classified as a device of the main and sewer It serves as man's access for inspection,
cleaning and repair. It is constructed out of bricks, stone, adobe or concrete at an interval
distance from 75 to 150 meters. The manhole diameter varies from 90 to 120 cen timeters
provided with iron rungs to serve as ladder for the maintenance crew to reach the bottom. It is
provided with a well-fitted cover on top, leveled with the road surface.

The Materials required for the public sewer line could be determined under the following
procedures:
1. From the plan of the public sewer line, find the net distance between manholes to be laid with
concrete pipes Total distance minus the space area occupied by the manhole
2. The net distance found divided by the length of one pipe at 1.00 meter long regardless of its
diameter.
3. Subtract 3% to 4% from the obtained number of pipes in order to get the exact number
required.
Sewage Ejector
Sewage ejector refers to the pump that will discharge waste in the sump and transfer it to the
house drain in stalled overhead. Sewage ejector is necessary when the public sewer line was
installed at a depth from 2 to 4 me ters below the street level. Large buildings with basement
may have a deeper excavation making it difficult to drain its waste towards the main sewer by
means of gravity

THE SEPTIC TANK

Septic Tank is a receptacle or vault used to collect organic waste discharged from the house
sewer. The main function of a septic tank is to liquefy and precipitate solid waste purifying
odorous materials.
Sewage that was discharged into the tank is retained. And during its retention period, about 60%
to 70% of the suspended solid of the sewage is removed largely by sedimentation to form a semi-
liquid substance called sludge. The sludge accumulates at the bottom of the s tank Parts of the
solids are formed into floating scum. Both the scum and the sludge are processed by anaerobic
bacteria and transforming them into liquid and gases.

This process is called digestion The solid matter is reduced in sizes and consequentiy changed in
character The septic tank therefore, combines two processes, sedimentation in the upper portion
of the tank and anaerobic decomposition of the accumulated sludge at the bottom
Decomposition of organic matter from human waste is a bacteriological process caused by:
1. Aerobic bacteria called aerobes
2. Anaerobic bacteria called anaerobes
3. Facultative bacteria
The life process of Aerobic bacteria is in the presence of material oxygen. The Anaerobic bacteria
on the other hand, functions in the absence of free oxygen. Likewise, Facultative bacteria also
functions even with or without free oxygen. These three types of bacteria have no relation to
disease. They thrive naturally in sewage, and will function when conditions are favorable in terms
of:

1. Food Supply
2. Temperature
3. Moisture
However, even when conditions are favorable, these bacteria will cease to exist in the presence
of antiseptics of disinfectants. And to discharge large amount or volume of waste and water
containing disinfectants, oil and grease into the septic tank will affect and disturb the bacterial
activities therein and may then destroy the purpose for which the septic tank is constructed.
The human waste or excreta are decomposed, until the organic matters are transformed into
materials that could no longer be utilized by the bacteria in their life process. The process of
decomposition is regarded as stabilization.
Decomposition caused by anaerobic bacteria which is sometimes referred to as putrefaction, is
accompanied by bad odors. On the other hand, aerobic decomposition is not accompanied by
unpleasant odor. A sewage that turns dark and smell unpleasantly due to anaerobic
decomposition is called Septic. Decomposition caused by aerobic bacteria is accomplished with
no definite time and could be within a matter of hours.
Gasses that are Produced Inside the Septic Tank
There are different gases produced inside the septic tank ranging from organic to non-organic
gases. These are.
1. Methane gas (CH4) is a combination of hydrogen and carbon, a principal component of natural
gas.
2. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) is a combination of carbon and oxygen. It is the simplest oxide of carbon.
3. Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a by-product of methane, classified as poisonous gas.

4 Hydrogen (H₂) evolves as a moist gas from organic waste.

5. Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) is a colorless gas with offensive odor.
6. Sulfur Dioxide (HO₂) is also a colorless gas having an irritating odor.
These gases are discharged into the atmosphere through the ventilation pipe
Construction of the Septic Tank

Septic Tank is constructed from either of the following materials:

1. Reinforced concrete
2. Plastered concrete hollow blocks
3. Prefabricated asbestos
4. Thin metal and plastic

The most popular and widely used material for construction of septic tank is plastered concrete
hollow blocks or reinforced concrete. Others have not gained acceptance due to cost and
durability.
General Conditions in Constructing a Septic Tank
1. The concrete or masonry septic tank is usually con structed in a rectangular form. The reason
is to retard the even flow of the waste, that is necessary, to avoid disturbing the decomposition
processes inside the tank.

2. The minimum inside dimension of a septic tank is 90 centimeters wide by 150 centimeters
long.
3. For effective decomposition of the organic materials inside the septic tank, a 120 centimeters
depth of the liquid content is necessary. It is not imprac tical though, to construct a tank of greater
depth, provided, that the depth should not be deeper than the natural ground water table.
4. The inlet and outlet inverts of the septic tank shall be long turn sanitary tee. The inverts are
installed in the wall of the tank at least 120 centimeters from its bottom floor equally spaced
from both sides.
5. The invert is extended down the liquid of the tank not more than 30 centimeters. This is to
assure smooth delivery of the incoming sewage below the scum line. Scum refers to the lighter
organic materials that rises to the surface of the water.
6. The bottom of the digestion chamber should be sloped to one low point. The purpose is to
gather the settled organic materials into one mass to favor the propagation of the anaerobic
bacteria.
7. The septic tank, should be provided with a man hole, extended a few centimeters above the
surface of the soil to overcome infiltration of surface water. This manhole will serve the purpose
of cleaning, inspection and repair of the tank.
8 Septic tank for large plumbing installations are provided with suspended compartment
attached to the ceiling slab of the tank. The baffle plate is ex tended down the bottom of the tank
about 40 centimeters below the scum line. Each compartment of the tank separated by baffle
plate is provided with manhole
9 The Septic tank, should be constructed near the surface of the ground, because the correction
of the waste depends upon the extent of oxidation and the existence of anaerobic bacteria.
Another kind of bacteria that split and digest the effluent is the aerobic bacteria. A kind of
bacteria that survive only in the subsoil not more than 150 centimeters below the surface
Oxidation of the effluent deeper than 150 cm would become extremely difficult.
Size of the Septic Tank
So far, there is no mathematic formula ever formulated to arrive in determining a definite size of
a septic tank. However, sanitary authorities agreed in principles that:
1. For a family of 6 persons, the minimum tank capacity should be approximately 1.3 cubic meters
with a minimum size of 90 centimeters wide by 150 centimeters long and 120 centimeters depth.
2. A very large tank is not advisable, because the bacterial activities would be retarded. The size
of the tank is proportionally based on the number of per sons expected to be served. In other
words, the volume of the tank has a rational proportion with the volume of incoming waste for
bacterial activities to be in favorable condition.
3. For residential installation, the practice is to allow 5 to 6 cubic feet of tank volume per person.
Thus, a septic tank that will serve a family of 12 persons must have a liquid capacity of 6 x 12 feet
= 72 cubic or 538 gallons. (one cubic foot is 748 gallons).
Technical Data in Determining Volume of Septic Tank

Where large amount of water waste is coming from the shower bath, laundry and others, it is not
advisable to permit entry of these waters into the septic tank. Likewise, all downspout collecting
water from the roof, should not be allowed to terminate into the septic tank. Rainwater should
be conveyed to the Storm Drain.
Location of Septic Tank
Location of the septic tank shall observe the following considerations:
1. The septic tank may be located closer to the building it will serve, providing a minimum
distance of 2.00 meters from the outside wall.
2. As much as possible, the septic tank should not be located closer to the doors or windows.

3. Septic tank should be at least 15 meters away from any source of water supply. The farther
the better.
Requirements for a Satisfactory Disposal of Human Waste
1. There should be no contamination of ground sur face that may enter into the spring or wells.
2. There should be no contamination of surface water.
3. The surface soil should not be contaminated.

4. Excreta should not be accessible to animals, flies, cockroaches, vermin and the like.
5. There should be no odor and unsightly conditions.
6. The methods used should be simple and economical in terms of construction operation.
Safety Precautions
In most cases septic tanks are poorly aerated or ventilated. It lacks free oxygen. Under this
condition, an individual entering into a septic tank for making repairs or cleaning purposes, may
meet almost instant death.
Septic tank may contain harmful and dangerous gases. When repair work or cleaning is to be
made, be sure that the septic tank is well ventilated, by removing the manhole cover few days in
advance of the work. Another precaution is to supply fresh air inside the tank, while work is being
done
Remember that the tank may contain inflammable gases that might be ignited to cause a terrific
explosion. It light is needed to work in the dark, an electric emergency light with properly
insulated cord should be used. In the absence of electric supply, a flashlight powered by dry cell
battery is equally safe.

Sewage Treatment
The effluent removed from the septic tank is still in the stage of objectionable matter. Although
these organic matters have been removed, and many of the objectionable gases have been
eliminated, still it contain countless number of harmful anaerobic bacteria and objectionable
chemical compounds in solution that must be disposed of.
There are several methods and processes wherein sew ages may be treated. And those that are
most commonly used are the activated sludge process, and the trickling or sprinkling filter
processes,
The detailed scientific analysis of sewage treatment is beyond the scope of this subject in
plumbing. But in passing, it is worth mentioning that the treatment of municipal sewage is a
complex problem involving scientific aspects outside the sphere of plumbing
The design and construction of a modern sewage disposal plant requires engineering training in
all the phases of natural science. Civil works for the design and construction of the structure,
mechanical for the construction of equipment plus an extended knowledge of chemistry, physics
and bacteriology.

REFERENCES

• https://www.slideshare.net/MayankAgrawal180/manholes-by-mayank-agrawal
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• https://www.alexandriava.gov/tes/stormwater/info/default.aspx?id=100183
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VanderburghCounty0820.html
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• https://www.britannica.com/technology/sewerage-system
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• https://www.dtox.org/blog/what-is-a-septic-tank-and-how-does-it-work
• https://scdhec.gov/environment/your-home/septic-tanks/septic-tank-safety-warnings