Tips to Avoid Septic Trouble
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DO have your tank pumped out and system inspected every two to five years by a licensed septic contractor. |
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DO keep a record of pumping, inspections, and other maintenance. |
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DO practice water conservation. Repair dripping faucets and leaking toilets, run washing machines and dishwashers only when full, avoid long showers, and use water saving features in faucets, showerheads, and toilets. |
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DO learn the location of your septic system and drain field. Keep a sketch of it handy for service visits. If your system has a flow diversion valve, learn its location, and turn it once a year. Flow diverters can add many years to the life of your system. |
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DO divert roof drains and surface water from driveways and hillsides away from the septic system. Keep sump pumps and house footing drains away from the septic system as well. |
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DO take leftover hazardous household chemicals to your approved waste collection center for disposal. Use bleach, disinfectants, and drain and toilet bowl cleaners sparingly and in accordance with product labels. |
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DON'T allow anyone to drive or park over any part of the system. |
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DON'T make or allow repairs to your septic system without obtaining the required health department permit. Use professional licensed septic contractors when needed. |
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DON'T use commercial septic tank additives. These products usually do not help and some may hurt your system in the long run. |
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DON'T use your toilet as a trashcan by dumping non-degradable materials down your toilet or drains. |
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DON'T poison your septic system and the groundwater by pouring harmful chemicals down the drain. They can kill the beneficial bacteria that treat your wastewater. |