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Can I install my own septic system and leachfield? |
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System performance depends on proper installation of both the septic tank and the leachfield. A septic professional who can recommend the best system for your site and your usage requirements and has experience installing these systems should do the installation.
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Can I landscape over my septic system? |
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It is beneficial to grow grass or ground covers over your septic system to prevent soil erosion. Evergreens such as pines planted near the leachfield absorb excess water, and are beneficial. Avoid water-loving trees such as willows, poplars, swamp maples, or cypress. Be sure to map where you septic system is for easy access when needed.
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Can I pave over my septic system? |
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Paving over the system can have a negative effect on its ability to treat wastewater. Therefore, some local codes do not allow any impervious surface to be placed over the system. Check with your local regulatory department.
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Can I use a garbage disposal with my septic system? |
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Heavy garbage disposal use introduces large quantities of solids into the system, which can stress the system's performance. Use your disposal with moderation.
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How do I find a septic professional to maintain my system?
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Most likely, there are several septic professionals in your area who install and maintain systems. Check with your local health or regulatory department if you are unsure about a professional's qualifications.
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How do I know what size tank and leachfield I need? |
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This depends on expected usage, local codes, and your individual site. A septic professional will help you determine your options when selecting a new system or considering a repair.
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How do I maintain my septic system? |
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The most important step in proper septic system maintenance is to be sure to schedule regular service calls by a septic professional. Have the system checked and the tank pumped every three to five years. Some communities have
specified pumping schedules, so check with your local health department.
The second most important step is to be a responsible septic system user. It is important to conserve water, keep your drains clean of chemicals, grease and biodegradable substances, keep surface water away from the leachfield, and keep heavy equipment or structures off the tank and the leachfield.
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How often do I need to pump my septic tank? |
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This depends on water usage and the amount of waste entering the system. Generally, systems need to be maintained by a septic professional every three to five years. Also, some communities have specified pumping schedules that are required, so check with your local health department.
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Is it okay to drive over my septic system?
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You should never drive over your septic tank or leachfield. Doing so can compact the soil so tightly that the systems performance is reduced.
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What is a septic system? |
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A septic system processes and purifies household and commercial waste (effluent). A standard septic system is typically installed on-site and has two components: a septic tank and a leachfield or drainfield. The effluent consists of blackwater (toilet wastes) and graywater (kitchen sink, bathtub and laundry wastes). Primary treatment occurs in the septic tank, where helpful bacteria digest organic matter in the wastewater. The effluent then flows into the leachfield for secondary treatment. Here, bacteria complete the digestion and purification process as the wastewater slowly leaches into the soil.
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Will commercial or homemade additives improve my septic system's performance? |
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Commercial septic tank and home made additives usually do not help performance. In fact, some can actually hurt long-term performance by destroying the billions of good bacteria that make your septic system operate properly.
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