Baffle is a vertical section or wall within the tank that reduces the velocity of, and directs the waste through, the tank and prevents solids from flowing into the outlet pipe and leaving the tank. Baffles are also installed to assist in the further breakdown of the waste by creating multiple compartments that allow the effluent to sit and separate longer, providing the bacteriological farm more time to operate at greater efficiency. The sizing of the baffles is important. If the baffle or tee is not deep enough, the floating buoyant waste may enter and plug it. If the baffle or tee extends too deep, the downward flow of incoming waste may cause excessive agitation within the tank and result in solids being carried out with the effluent. If sludge or buoyant waste is forced into the distribution box and into the leaching field, the soil will quickly become clogged or saturated. If this happens, the liquid will no longer percolate (absorb) into the soil. Broken baffles in the septic tank that allow sludge or scum to escape can cause this condition. Failure to perform periodic maintenance by having the tank pumped can also lead to a situation where the sludge and buoyant waste overwhelm the baffles.