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Septic system do's and don'ts
Do...
Regularly inspect and maintain your system
Routine maintenance can lengthen the life of your septic system. Contact a certified On-site System Maintainer to inspect and monitor your system. Learn more about inspecting your system here.
Pump your septic tank as needed
How often you pump depends on the amount of water use in your household or business. As a rule of thumb, the more people who use your septic system, the greater your water flow. This means your septic tank will fill up faster and will require more frequent pumping. Learn more about pumping your septic tank here.
Keep your septic tank lids closed and secured
A lid that is open or not screwed shut is a safety hazard. People can fall into tanks that are not secured. Make sure tank access lids are not cracked or deteriorated to prevent a safety hazard from happening.
Be water-wise (Download)
Using less water may increase the life of your septic system. Using too much water is a frequent factor in failed systems. Download the document with tips for saving water, from the Washington Sea Grant Program.
Direct water from land and roof drains away from the drainfield
This extra water may prevent the drainfield from working properly.
Landscape with love
Grass is the best cover for your septic tank and drainfield. Other plants with shallow root systems can also be used for landscaping. See suggested landscaping options.
Keep septic tank lids accessible
Have "risers" installed. This will make septic tank pumping and monitoring visits easier, cheaper, and less time-consuming. A "riser" also makes pumping and monitoring cause less mess and disruption in your yard. Contact a certified Installer, Pumper, or On-site System Maintainer to install risers.
Do...
Routine maintenance can lengthen the life of your septic system. Contact a certified On-site System Maintainer to inspect and monitor your system.
Learn more about inspecting your system.
How often you pump depends on the amount of water use in your household or business. As a rule of thumb, the more people who use your septic system, the greater your water flow. This means your septic tank will fill up faster and will require more frequent pumping.
Learn more about pumping your septic tank.
A lid that is open or not screwed shut is a safety hazard. People can fall into tanks that are not secured. Make sure tank access lids are not cracked or deteriorated to prevent a safety hazard from happening.