A septic system handles waste-water in homes that are located in areas where public sewers are not currently available. The standard type of septic system features a tank (anaerobic tank) which holds all the waste-water leaving your home through drainpipes, and a system of trench and pipes that allow the waste-water to "percolate" through the soil back to the water table. This process purifies the waste-water before it reaches the water shelf where it is then pumped back through your house via your well, as it is through neighboring properties. This is why it is very important to properly maintain your septic system.