<human>: What is a septic system, and what are some of the pros and cons of septic systems?
<bot>: A septic tank is a large underground holding tank that collects and treats wastewater from a home or building. It is designed to break down waste into harmless byproducts such as water vapor and nitrogen gas, which can be safely released into the atmosphere through a drain field. The primary advantage of a septic tank is that it provides an environmentally friendly way to treat wastewater, while also allowing for easy access to the tank for maintenance purposes. However, there are several disadvantages associated with septic tanks, including their potential to clog due to debris buildup, difficulty in locating the tank if buried too deep, and higher upfront costs. Additionally, they may require more frequent pumping than other types of wastewater treatment systems.