Protecting Your System
In addition to getting your septic tank pumped regularly, here are some things you can do:
- Know your system's location: When you have your tank pumped, make a sketch that shows exactly where it is located in relation to a couple of fixed points (corners of house, steps, fence post, etc.). Ask the pumper to help you locate the drainfield too. On the sketch locate other important features, such as your well. It may help to put a birdbath or decorative rock (one that is easily moved) over the tank lid so that it is easier to find the next time.
- Protect the drainfield: Make sure a barrier is present to prevent someone from driving over the drainfield. The drainfield is like a living system in that it needs oxygen flow to keep it working. Driving over the drainfield compacts the soil and restricts the flow of oxygen. Excessive water also harms the drainfield, so divert down spouts and other surface water (especially irrigation sprinklers) away from it. Don't dig, build, or plant (except grass) anything over your drainfield.
- Conserve water: Reduce the amount of (waste)water that must be treated and disposed of by your system. Don't do laundry in one day - spread it out over the week. Fix leaky faucets and toilets. A seemingly minor drip can add hundreds of gallons of unnecessary water into your system.
- Forget the garbage disposal: Disposals increase solids loading to your tank by about 50%, so you have to pump your tank more often than normally suggested.
- Careful what you flush: Do not flush cat litter, diapers, cigarette butts, tampons, condoms, grease, coffee grounds, dental floss, baby wipes, towelettes (even the flushable kind), paints, thinners, pesticides, oils, medicines, or excessive household chemicals. If you have a water softener, make sure it is not plumbed to backwash into the septic tank.
- Keep good records: Maintain a file folder that has a copy of your permit (check with the health department to see if a permit copy is available), a sketch of your system, and any maintenance records for pumpouts and repairs. This should be passed on to the next homeowner when you sell your house.
