Do’s

• Practice water conservation.
• Use water saving devices such as low flow showerheads.
• Repair leaky faucets and plumbing fixtures immediately.
• Reduce toilet reservoir volume or flow.
• Take short showers.
• Take baths with a partially filled tub.
• Wash only full loads of dishes and laundry.
• Shut off the water while shaving or brushing your teeth.
• Balance your water use (e.g. avoid washing several loads of laundry in one day.)
• Keep accurate records of where your septic components are and keep record of system maintenance.
• Pump your tank routinely. Pumping your septic tank is probably the single most important thing you can do to protect your system.
• Keep all runoff away from your system.
• Protect your system from damage. Keep vehicles off your drainfield. The pressure can compact the soil or damage the pipes. Before you dig for any reason, check the location of your system and drainfield area.
• Landscape your system properly. Plant grass over the drainfield area. Don’t plant trees or shrubs or place impermeable materials, such as concrete or plastic over the drainfield.
• Use cleaning chemicals in moderation and only according to manufacturer’s directions.

Don’ts

• Don’t flood irrigate over your system or drainfield area.
• The best way to irrigate these areas is with sprinklers.
• Do not use caustic drain openers for clogged drains.
• Do not enter the septic tank. Poisonous gases or a lack of oxygen can be fatal.
• Do not flush harmful materials into your tank. Grease, cooking oil, coffee grounds, sanitary napkins, and cigarettes do not easily decompose in septic tanks. Chemicals, such as solvents, oils, paints, and pesticides are harmful to your system’s operation and may pollute groundwater.
• Do not use a garbage disposal. Using a garbage disposal will increase the amount of solids entering the septic tank and will result in the need for more frequent pumping.

FAQS FOR RESIDENTIAL SEPTIC SERVICES