Here are the dos and don’ts of septic tank maintenance. Follow these simple guidelines and keep your system working like a charm.
Do:
Divert surface runoff water from roofs, patios, driveways and other areas away from your drain field.
Have your septic tank pumped regularly. It should also be inspected for leaks, cracks and to make sure the exit baffle is in place.
Install lint and effluent filters.
Spread out your laundry loads.
Compost your garbage or put it in the trash.
Don’t:
Use a garbage disposal.
These appliances normally double the amount of solids added to the tank!
Flush sanitary napkins, disposable diapers or other non-biodegradable products into your system.
Dump solvents, oils, paint thinners, disinfectants, pesticides or poisons down the drain as they can disrupt the treatment process and contaminate the groundwater.
Dig in your drain field or build anything over it.
Drive over your drain field or compact the soil in any way.
Plant trees or shrubbery close to the septic system, because the roots can get in the lines and plug them. Grass is the only thing that should be planted on or near a drain field.
