Septic System Maintenance

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Septic System Maintenance
GET PUMPED!
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Septic System
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Overview

• Proper maintenance is vital!
• Septic tanks MUST be pumped periodically (EPA
  recommends every three to five years)
• The drainfield needs to be protected from
  overloading and compaction.
• Wastewater should enter the system as evenly as
  possible throughout the day/week.

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Septic Tank Pumping Frequency Based on Tank and
Household Size
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Did You Know?

• The drainfield is very delicate during winter
  months.
• Good vegetative cover is important for drainfield
  function and maintenance.
• There is no substitute for regular maintenance!

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Did You Know?

• Commercial starters, feeders, and other additives
  are NOT necessary and may interrupt the natural
  processes that make the system effective.
• Avoid putting hair, coffee grounds, dental floss,
  diapers, kitty litter, feminine hygiene products,
  cigarette butts, etc. in the system.
• NEVER put paint, varnishes, paint thinners, waste
  oils, or pesticides in the system.

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What NOT to Do

• DONT use harsh cleaners, bleach, soaps, or
  detergents.
• DONT dispose of paints, medications, or
  chemicals through your septic system.
• DONT attempt to pump the tank on your ownalways
  use a certified professional.

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What TO do

• DO have your tank inspected and pumped regularly
  by a certified professional.
• DO control water use to avoid overloading the
  system.
• DO divert surface water runoff from roofs,
  driveways, downspouts, etc. away from the
  drainfield.

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Contacts

• Insert local contact information
• The Groundwater Foundation
• P.O. Box 22558
• Lincoln, NE 68542-2558
• 402-434-2740
• www.groundwater.org