If you live in a rural area and don't have a water meter, there is a good chance you have a septic system. There is even a better chance that you have a septic system if your neighbors have one. If you've never had a septic system before, you may have some questions about them.

Here are three frequently asked questions about septic systems that you might have. 

1. How Do Septic Systems Work?

The primary jobs of a septic system include treating and disposing of household water. It consists of a septic tank and a drainfield and is usually located in the backyard. The septic tank is a water-tight container that holds wastewater.

Once the waste gets collected in the tank, solids settle to the bottom to form sludge and liquids float to the top and turn into scum. The sludge and scum stay in the tank as the wastewater goes into the drainfield. As the wastewater gets soaked into the soil in the drainfield, viruses and bacteria get removed.

2. Do Septic Tanks Require Any Maintenance?

Your septic tank does require some maintenance, which usually includes an inspection once a year, as well as getting it pumped on a regular basis. How often you get it pumped largely depends on the size of the tank and how many people are in the household. For example, a family of four that uses a 1,500-gallon septic tank should get it pumped every four years.

By doing routine maintenance and taking good care of your system, you shouldn't have any major problems with your septic system. Taking good care of it means not using your toilet as a garbage can. In other words, you should refrain from flushing things like kitty litter, feminine products, and disposable wipes down the toilet. You should also avoid pouring grease down your drain.

3. What Are Some Signs My Septic System is Malfunctioning?

If there is flooding around your drainfield, this is a good indication that your septic system isn't working properly. This is due to having too much liquid in the drainfield. Other signs your septic system is malfunctioning include:

• You have wastewater backing up into your drains and your toilet
• You have a pool of water or mud around your septic system
• You hear gurgling noises coming from your plumbing system
• Your sinks and bathtub drain water more slowly than usual

If you notice any of these signs, you need to get your septic system looked at right away.