How Does a Septic System Work?
A typical septic system has four main components:
- Pipe from the home
- Septic tank
- Drainfield
- Soil
Why should I maintain my septic system?
A key reason to maintain your septic system is to save money! Failing septic systems are expensive to repair or replace, and poor maintenance is often the culprit. Having your septic system inspected (at least every 3 years) is a bargain when you consider the cost of replacing the entire system. Your system will need pumping every 3 to 5 years, depending on how many people live in the house and the size of the system. An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value and could pose a legal liability.
Luckily, following a few simple guidelines along with regular professional maintenance is all it takes to keep your septic system functioning properly for many years.
Important Septic System Do’s & Don’ts
Do’s:
- Find the location of your septic tank, drain field. If you do not have the Plans-As-Built, draw one now, so you don’t have later.
- Check your tank regularly. (Health Department recommends every 3 years) The quickest way to plug up a drain field is when your tank fills up with liquids.
- Hire a licensed pumper, if your tank needs to be pumped
- Install an effluent filter. A filter will help stop the overflow of solids out to your drain field
- Replace old rusted metal tanks. Call the Health Department for the correct information and permit fee.
- Restrict water use. Use low flow faucets and restrict amount of time in the shower. Also, spread out laundry and dishwashing over the week, not all done in one day.
- Fix even the smallest leaks quickly. A dripping faucet can send out gallons of extra water a day to the drain field.
Don’ts:
- Don’t use a garbage disposal. This will only add more solids to your wastewater. Instead, compost or place vegetable waste in your garbage can.
- Don’t use additives for your septic system. Additives are a waste of money and in some cases can actually damage your system
- Don’t build on your reserve area or over your septic tank. Your reserve area is there for insurance so if your system ever fails, you have an alternate drain field location.
- Don’t abuse your drain field. You should not drive over, build over, or let horses or cattle roam over you drain field.
- Don’t plant trees over your drain field. Tree Roots can plug the lines.
- Don’t let rain run-off or hot tub water go through or over your system. This could overload the system and chorine, in excessive amounts is bad for the on-site septic system bacteria.
- Don’t ever enter into a septic tank, even if it is pumped. Dangerous gases can still be in the tank.
All inspections should be made from the exterior of the tank. When in doubt, contact your local Health Department for the correct, safe procedure. Find more information on the EPA’s website.