Developers

How to maintain Septic Tanks and Sewer SystemProper operation and maintenance of your septic systemcan have a significant impact on how well it works and howlong it lasts. Failing systems are expensive to repair orreplace, and poor maintenance is a common cause of earlysystem failures. It is important to maintain your system inorder to protect the health of your family, your communityand the environment. Chemicals improperly released into aseptic system can pollute water sources and contribute tosystem failures. Such failures can also cause property valuesto decline, and can affect beaches and ghuts.Improper siting, construction, or design often contribute toseptic system failures. Septic tank owners should be alert tothe following warning signs of a failing system.Slowly draining sinks and toiletsGurgling sounds in the plumbingPlumbing back upsSewerage odours in the house or yardGround is wet or mushy underfootGrass growing faster and greener in one particular areaof the yardSound septic operation and maintenance practices includeconserving water, being careful that nothing harmful isdisposed of through the system, and having the systeminspected and pumped regularly. Do not dispose of anythingin your septic system that can just as easily be put in thetrash. In the kitchen, avoid washing food scraps down thedrain. Grease and cooking oils contribute to the layer ofscum in the tank. Garbage disposals can increase theamount of solids in the tank by up to 50%. To avoiddisrupting or permanently damaging your septic system, donot use it to dispose of hazardous household chemicals.Inspect your system annually to detect problems beforethey escalate, and check the level of scum in your tank. It isimportant to protect your septic system from potentialdamage. Do not plant anything but grass near your septicsystem, and do not allow anyone to operate heavyequipment over any part of the system.87Water Conservation Measures for the HomesWash vehicles with bucket of water instead of a hoseUse a watering can to wet plants instead of a hose.