Septic Systems

What can YOU do?

Here are some simple steps you can take to maintain your septic system, extend its life, reduce problems and expenses and provide protection for rivers, lakes and streams:

Household Tips for Septic System Owners

• Flush only human waste and toilet paper down the toilet.
• Never flush diapers, feminine hygiene products, condoms, cigarette butts or cat litter down your toilet—these items will not break down in the septic tank and may end up clogging the system.
• Don’t pour household additives, yeast, sugars, oil-based paints and solvents down the drain. All of these items can harm helpful bacteria in your septic system.
• Limit use of a garbage disposal by disposing of food wastes in the trash, and avoid pouring fats and grease down the drain. Doing so will extend the life of your septic system.
• Reduce the amount of wastewater going to your septic system by taking shorter showers, running only full loads of laundry and repairing leaks promptly. You will conserve water while preventing the flooding of your leaching field.

Septic System Maintenance

• Septic systems should be inspected at least every three years by a licensed contractor.
• When sludge in the tank reaches a certain point, the tank will need to be pumped out as recommended by your inspector.
• Never plant trees or vegetation other than grass over your leaching field.
• Avoid overwatering the grass over the leaching field—doing so will saturate the ground and reduce the ability for the wastewater to be able to percolate into the soil.
• Similarly, direct downspouts or other drainage away from the leaching field area to avoid creating overly damp soil conditions.
• Not sure you have a septic system? Contact your county health department to see if you have a septic system and where it’s located on your property.