SepticSmart Week 2024: September 16-20, 2024
SepticSmart Week reminds us of the importance of caring for and maintaining our septic systems. Just like water well systems, septic systems require regularly scheduled maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly.
Remember these Helpful Tips
Think at the Sink! What goes down the drain has a big impact on your septic system. Fats, grease, and solids can clog a system’s pipes and drainfield.
Don’t Overload the Commode! A toilet is not a trash can. Disposable diapers and wipes, feminine hygiene products, coffee grounds, cigarette butts, and cat litter can damage a septic system.
Don’t Strain Your Drain! Use water efficiently and stagger use of water-based appliances. Too much water use at once can overload a system that hasn’t been pumped recently.
Shield Your Field! Tree and shrub roots, cars, and livestock can damage your septic drainfield.
Keep It Clean! Contamination can occur when a septic system leaks due to improper maintenance. Be sure your drinking water is safe to drink by testing it regularly.
Protect It and Inspect It! Regular septic system maintenance can save homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs and protect public health.
Septic System Maintenance
It's important to create a septic maintenance log and keep it with your well maintenance log or download a free copy from NOWRA's website.
Proper maintenance of a septic system includes:
Regular inspection every 1 to 2 years
Having the system pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on demand
Conserving water to reduce the amount of demand placed on the system and prolong its functional life
Demand on a septic system is based on:
The number of people in your household
The amount of wastewater generated
The volume of solids
The size of your tank
Homeowners
SepticSmart Education Materials (videos, brochures, postcards, mailers, and more)
SepticSmart education materials are targeted to homeowners but for use by anyone! These online resources may be downloaded, printed and shared as needed. Many of the materials are available in both English and Spanish and in some cases may be personalized by a business or local government.
A properly maintained septic system poses no threat to the groundwater that supplies a household well. However, wastewater from a failing septic system can carry contaminants such as nitrates, harmful bacteria, and viruses into groundwater and potentially the well.
Contact your local septic service professional for assistance and maintenance.