
Be Septic Smart!
Find resources for homeowners, industry professionals, and state, tribal, and local officials to design and maintain effective systems to protect public health, preserve valuable water resources, and sustain economic vitality.
What do I need to know before calling?
- What type of system you have
- Regular Septic with leach lines or sand filter bed (no motor or timer)
- Regular round concrete lid
- Aeration systems: has a motor and timer
- Oldham/coate air system
- Jet system – usually has a green lid
- Cavitette system – usually has stop sign shaped lid
- Multi-flo system
- The size and location of your septic tank
- The number of lids
- Are the lids to the tank exposed
- Does your system have a motor
- Age of the system
- When was the system last serviced
- Any problems, backing up
- How are you paying for the service
- A time frame when you will be home
What should I do to care for my septic system?
- Do have your septic system inspected annually
- Do keep your septic tank cover accessible
- Do conserve water to avoid overloading the system
- Do keep a detailed record of repairs, pumping, inspections and other maintenance activities
What should I not do to my septic system?
- Don’t allow anyone to drive or park over any part of system
- Don’t plant or build anything over or near drain-field except grass
- Don’t use septic tank additives. They may be harmful to system
- Don’t put harmful chemicals or cleansers down the drain