| DO learn
the location of your septic tank and drain field. Keep a sketch
of it handy with your maintenance record for service visits.
DO have your septic tank
inspected annually. Especially check for the sludge and scum
levels.
DO inspect the drain field
for odors and wet spots which are indicators of improper
drainage, a clogged system or excessive water use. The presence
of damp or soggy areas or odors may indicate a leak in the
system.
DO have your septic tank
pumped out regularly by a licensed contractor.
DO keep your septic tank
cover accessible for inspections and pumpings. Install risers if
necessary.
DO call a professional
whenever you experience problems with your system, or if there
are any signs of system failure.
DO keep a detailed
record of repairs, pumpings, inspections, permits issued, and
other maintenance activities.
DO conserve water to
avoid overloading the system. Be sure to repair any leaky
faucets or toilets.
DO divert other sources
of water, like roof drains, house footing drains and sump pumps,
away from the septic system. Excessive water keeps the soil in
the drain field from naturally cleansing the wastewater. |
Don't go down into a septic tank. Toxic gases are produced
by the natural treatment processes in septic tanks and
can kill in minutes. Extreme care
should be taken when inspecting a septic tank, even when just
looking in. Don't
allow anyone to drive or park over any part of the system.
Don't plant anything
over or near the drain field except grass. Roots from nearby
trees or shrubs may clog and damage the drain lines.
Don't dig in your
drain field or build anything over it, and don't cover the
drain field with a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt. The
area over the drain field should only have a grass cover. The
grass will not only prevent erosion, but will help remove excess
water.
Don't make or allow
repairs to your septic system without obtaining the required
health department permit. Use professional licensed septic
contractors when needed.
Don't use septic tank
additives. These products usually do not help and some may even
be harmful to your system.
Don't use your toilet as
a trash can or poison your septic system and the groundwater by
pouring harmful chemicals and cleansers down the drain. Harsh
chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria that treat your
wastewater.
Don't use a garbage
disposal without checking with your local regulatory agency to
make sure that your septic system can accommodate this
additional waste.
Don't allow backwash
from home water softeners to enter our septic system. |
