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How A Septic System Works

Common Causes of Septic Failure

How Often Should the Septic System Be Cleaned?

Portable Toilets

Home

How A Septic System Works

Common Causes of Septic Failure

How Often Should the Septic System Be Cleaned?

Portable Toilets

Common Causes of Septic Failure

Septic system failures can be inconvenient and costly!

Neglecting to regularly inspect and clean the septic tank.
Lack of understanding on proper use of the system.
Poor soil conditions and / or faulty design or installation.

                           

The signs of failure include high surface water in the leaching area, lush growth of grass, odor and waste water draining slowly from the bathroom or kitchen fixture…or even backing up.

Often the problems can be prevented by simple maintenance…but not all. (A regular cleaning costs relatively little and can help prevent system failures.)

DON'T:

• Allow excess amounts of fat or grease to enter the system – it can congeal and cause obstructions.
• Use chemical compounds, enzymes or septic tank “cleaners” – There is no such thing as a “quick fix.”
• Use large amounts of laundry soaps, detergents, bleaches, drain cleaners – recommended quantities should not adversely affect the system.
• Flush down paper towels or other heavy matter.
• Soak diapers in toilet bowl - a child may come along and try to flush the toilet.
• Allow trucks or heavy equipment to drive over the tank or leaching field.
• Put a lot of water into the system all at one time. Use water sensibly and teach children to do the same.
• Do all your laundry in one day...space it out.

DO:

• Keep accurate records about location and cleaning of system in the permanent house file so this information can be passed on to the next owner.
• Set-up and adhere to a sound system of inspection and cleaning.
• Check for faucet leaks or toilet leaks. It is estimated that one leaky faucet can waste as much as 700 gallons of water a year.
• Educate your family on proper use of the system.