Septic System Newsletter Article

Septic system newsletter article

Do you know where your waste goes? No, not the kind that you bring to the curb, we're talking about the other stuff...Do you have a septic system or is your home connected to the municipal sanitary sewer line? If you've got a septic system, here's some information that might interest you. More information can be found on the  EPA's website at http://www.epa.gov/owm/septic/pubs/homeowner_guide_long.pdf. 

Septic System Dos and Don'ts 

(adapted from National Small Flows Clearinghouse)

Dos

• Check with the local regulatory agency or inspector/pumper if you have a garbage disposal unit

to make sure that your septic system can handle this additional waste.

• Check with your local health department before using additives. Commercial septic tank

additives do not eliminate the need for periodic pumping and can be harmful to the system.

• Use water efficiently to avoid overloading the septic system. Be sure to repair leaky faucets or

toilets. Use high-efficiency fixtures.

• Use commercial bathroom cleaners and laundry detergents in moderation. Many people prefer

to clean their toilets, sinks, showers, and tubs with a mild detergent or baking soda.

• Check with your local regulatory agency or inspector/pumper before allowing water softener

backwash to enter your septic tank.

• Keep records of repairs, pumpings, inspections, permits issued, and other system maintenance

activities.

• Learn the location of your septic system. Keep a sketch of it with your maintenance record for

service visits.

• Have your septic system inspected and pumped as necessary by a licensed inspector/contractor.
• Plant only grass over and near your septic system. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs might

clog and damage the drainfield.

Dont's

• Your septic system is not a trash can. Don't put dental floss, feminine hygiene products,

condoms, diapers, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, paper towels, latex

paint, pesticides, or other hazardous chemicals into your system.

• Don't use caustic drain openers for a clogged drain. Instead, use boiling water or a drain snake

to open clogs.

• Don't drive or park vehicles on any part of your septic system. Doing so can compact the soil

in your drainfield or damage the pipes, tank, or other septic system components.