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Questions |
Tips to Avoid Trouble
Have your tank pumped out and inspected every three to five years by a licensed septic contractor.
Keep a record of pumping, inspections and other maintenance.
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 when possible.
Learn the location of your septic system and drainfield. 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…this can add many years to the life of your system.
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.
Do not dispose of hazardous household chemicals in your system. Limit the amount of bleach, disinfectants and drain and toilet bowl cleaners in the system, as this material destroys the bacteria that breaks down the solids during the primary treatment stage.
Do not park or drive over the system. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs may clog and damage your drain lines.
Do not use commercial septic tank additives. These products usually do not help and some may hurt your system in the long run.
Don't use your toilet as a trash can by flushing nondegradables. Keep grease, disposable diapers, plastics, gasoline, oil, paint, paint thinner, pesticides, antifreeze, etc. out of your system.
 Caring for Septic Systems
Pumped How Often? |
