These guidelines will assist you in care and maintenance of your septic system. A system, even if designed and installed properly, can still fail if household water use is not monitored.
- Stagger laundry and dishwashing throughout the week. Doing several loads of wash in one day could flood the system.
- Have family members take showers/baths at different times during the day.
- Minimize all chemicals going down drains including bleach, cleaners, drain openers, etc. These can kill beneficial bacteria in your septic tank.
- Only toilet paper should be flushed. Do not flush any sanitary hygiene materials. These do not decompose and may clog your tank or pump. Also, do not flush baby wipes, disposable diapers, dental floss, cigarette butts, coffee grinds or paper towels.
- Do not waste your money on septic additives as they have not been proven effective and may even be harmful to your system.
- Repair any leaking or dripping faucets and running toilets promptly. This water amount adds up quickly.
- Divert any other sources of water away from your drainfield.
- Pump your tank regularly, every 3 to 5 years, depending on use.
- Minimize use of the garbage disposal and never put grease or fats down your sink.
- Do not build anything or drive or park heavy equipment over your drainfield area. This can cause your lines to break or not absorb properly.
- Do not plant large trees or shrubs in drainfield areas. Their roots can clog the system.