Septic Tanks Information
DO's
Do learn the location of your septic tank and drainfield. Keep a sketch of it handy with your maintenance record for service visits.
Do have your septic system inspected annually.
Do have your septic tank pumped out regularly by a licensed contractor.
Do keep your septic tank cover accessible for inspections and pumping. 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 s
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 drainfield from naturally cleansing the wastewater.
Don't
Don't go down into a septic tank. Toxic gases are produced by the natural treatments processes in septic tanks and can kill in minutes. Extreme care should be taken 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 drainfield except grass. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs may clog and damage the drainlines.
Don't dig in your dranfield or build anything with a heard surface such as concrete or asphalt. The area over the drainfield should have only 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 cleaners down the drain. Harsh chemicals can kill he beneficial bacteria that treat your wastewater.
Don't use a garbage disposal without checking with your local regulatory agency t make sure that your septic system can accommodate this additional waste.
Don't allow backwash from home water softeners to enter the septic system.
DO Not FLUSH
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Coffee grinds |
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Dental Floss |
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Disposable diapers |
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Kitty litter |
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Sanitary Napkins |
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Tampons |
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Cigarette butts |
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Condoms |
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Fat, Grease, or oil |
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Paper |
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Towels |
And hazardous chemicals, such as:
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Paints |
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Varnishes |
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Thinners |
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Waste oils |
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Photographic solutions |
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Pesticides |
These items can overtax or destroy the biological digestion taking place within your system.