What Every Septic System Owner Needs to Know

The septic system is a sewage treatment and disposal system buried in the ground. A septic system consists of a septic tank and a soil absorption area. The purpose of a septic tank is to receive household wastes (laundry, bath water, discarded food scraps, body wastes, etc.) Solids settle to the bottom. The liquid passes into the leaching system. Bacterial action decomposes part of the solids. Inorganic and hard-to-decompose material remains and gradually fills the tank until the solids pass into and plug the leaching system. Solid material overflowing into the soil absorption area should be avoided at all costs.

Helpful Hints:

• Pump System Every 2 Years
• Limit Grease Discharge
• Use Only Biodegradable Products
• Limit Use of Garbage Disposals
• NEVER Dispose of Acids, Polishes, Oil, Paint, Grease, etc.

The U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare Public Health Services says, "A septic tank system will serve a home satisfactorily if it is properly designed, installed and adequately maintained. Even a good system which does not have proper care and attention may become a nuisance and a burdensome expense."