Do's and Don'ts

• Never enter a septic tank the gasses within the tank can be toxic and fatal.
• Pump your septic tank a minimum of 3 years. Clogged drain fields are the leading reason for septic system malfunctions and failures.
• Conserve water. Reducing the water flow into the system helps the solids within the tank to sink to the bottom, producing less agitation within the tank. The likelihood of solids passing into the drain field is then greatly diminished.
• Monitor your water consumption. Your system is designed to handle certain levels of water based on the number of occupants living at your home. Pump more frequently if the water usage increases drastically.
• Showers require less water than baths.
• Front loading washers use 1/3 less water than top loading units.
• Always keep your drain fields free of trees, roots, storm and surface water as well as any other things that may obstruct and damage the area.
• Know the exact location of your septic tank and drain field. This can save time when the system needs to be pumped or repaired.
• Never drive heavy equipment or vehicles over your drain field.
• Pump the tank though the large central manhole, not the baffle ports. A riser can be installed on the tank to make it more accessible for pumping.
• Always have a trap on your fixture to help prevent gases from passing into your home.
• Use phosphorous-free laundry detergents.
• Never place harmful products or foreign objects into your septic system. Harmful products include: painting products, oil, gasoline, cooking grease, products with high phosphorous, large quantities of Lysol, chlorox, and household cleaners.