Septic Do’s & Don’ts

Septic systems can be a silent force in our lives, UNTIL they fail. Like all successful systems, it is education and ongoing care that makes all the difference. Below you will find a list of the best practices our experts have found to be the most effective in promoting healthy living with a septic system …

  • DO keep all septic system records such as design, permits, as-built, maintenance records, etc. in a safe place.
  • DO educate yourself about your septic system, how it works and where the major components are.
  • DO reduce water use by:
    • using low flow faucets, showers, and toilets;
    • running appliances one at a time (dishwasher, washing machine, etc.);
    • spreading laundry over entire week and avoid partial loads;
    • washing only full loads of dishes and laundry;
    • taking showers instead of baths;
    • limiting shower length;
    • taking baths with partially filled tub;
    • fixing all faucets and toilet leaks promptly; and
    • turning water off while brushing teeth, shaving, etc.
  • DO reduce waste strength by:
    • using less soap and cleaning products;
    • putting grease, oils, fat, etc. in the trash, not down the drain;
    • installing a sink strainer to stop food particles from going down the drain;
    • composting food scraps or putting them in the trash;
    • eliminating garbage disposal use; and
    • keeping RV waste out of the system.
  • DO protect your system and reserve area by:
    • diverting roof drains, surface water, etc.;
    • keeping cars and heavy machinery off the area; and
    • keeping access ports accessible to maintenance personnel.
  • DO have your system checked annually by a maintenance person and have tanks pumped as necessary.
  • DO report problems and alarms immediately to your maintenance provider.
  • DON’T allow broken or leaky fixtures to go unrepaired – your system is not designed to handle the extra water.
  • DON’T use a garbage disposal unless your system was specifically designed to handle one.
  • DON’T use septic tank additives.
  • DON’T discharge water softener backwash into your system.
  • DON’T use tank deodorizers, chlorine products, or other strong chemicals. They harm the microorganisms in your system.
  • DON’T dispose of non-biodegradable items in your system:
    • diapers
    • coffee grounds
    • grease
    • plastics
    • kitty litter
    • paper towels
    • cigarette butts
    • condoms
    • oils
    • bones
    • dental floss
    • hair
    • sanitary napkins
    • egg shells
  • DON’T dig, trench, or otherwise disturb the ground around your tanks, BioFilter, or reserve area.
  • DON’T cover your system with impermeable materials such as plastic, concrete, etc.
  • DON’T change the shape of your BioFilter, or add soil to it.
  • DON’T attempt to change system settings, or tamper with the control panel.