Fact Sheets, Brochures, & Articles for the Public
An abundance of fact sheets, brochures, and articles are available that explain the basics of septic systems: what they're made of, how they work, how to operate them (what should and shouldn't go down the drain), and how to maintain them (inspections and pumping). Below are some these excellent resources that are particularly suited for the general public.
- Septic Planning (pdf) - This DHEC fact sheet gives basic information on reviewing property before purchase and on getting a septic permit.
- Septic Maintenance (pdf) - This DHEC fact sheet explains why and how to maintain your system.
- Facts and Folklore About Septic Tank Maintenance (pdf) - This Virginia Department of Health pamphlet debunks a lot of old septic myths that just won't go away. Dead cats and a pound of yeast?!
- South Carolina Coast*A*Syst (pdf) - South Carolina Coast*A*Syst consists of information and a series of confidential self-assessments that will enable you to identify and correct pollution sources and health risks in your home and around your yard. While anyone will find this entire booklet very useful for coastal living, Chapter 4 deals specifically with Managing Your Home Septic System.
This next series of publications comes from the National Small Flows Clearinghouse, which is part of the National Environmental Services Center out of West Virginia University. To learn more about this organization, see the Expert Help section of this tool kit.
- Maintaining Your Septic System (pdf) - A Guide For Homeowners - This guide should be the instruction manual that comes with all septic systems. Don't flush without it!
- The Care and Feeding of Your Septic System (pdf) - Remember...you are what you eat!
- Septic Tank Additives (pdf) - Learn why commercial additive products (and yeast, dead chickens, possums, and raw hamburger!) aren't good for your system!
- Inspections Equal Preventative Care (pdf) - A great consumer guide! This publication gives homeowners the low down on inspections along with expert advice on how to play an active role.
- Septic Tank Inspection - What Should I Expect When I Have My Tank Inspected? (pdf) - See a sludge judge in action!
- Drainfield Inspection - Does My Drainfield Ever Need To Be Inspected? (pdf) - See why this half of your system should not be ignored.
The following publications come from the EPA. Some of them come in two versions, including one that can be customised with local contact information (with PDF editing ability).
- A Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems (pdf) - Long version.
- A Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems (can be customized) (pdf) - Long version.
- Guía del dueño de hogar para sistemas sépticos (pdf) - Spanish Homeowner's Guide (long version).
- A Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems (pdf) - Short version.
- A Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems (can be customized) (pdf) - Short version.
- Homeowner Septic System Checklist (pdf) - Can be printed as a sticker (or not) and can be customized.
- What To Do After A Flood (pdf) - This recent fact sheet provides valuable information for homeowners after a flood has inundated their septic system. Always remember to check with your local Health Department too.