Do Your Part, Be Septic Smart:

The EPA's Do’s and Don’ts for Maintaining Your Septic System

 

Whether you're new to septic systems or you've had one for years, knowing how to properly care for it can save you from expensive repairs and environmental harm. Fortunately, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has provided clear and easy-to-follow guidelines to help homeowners maintain their systems effectively.

 

Here’s a breakdown of the EPA’s key recommendations on how to be SepticSmart and protect your home, health, environment, and property value.

 

🔍 Protect It and Inspect It

 

Do:

• Have your septic system inspected at least every 3 years by a licensed professional.

• Pump your tank every 3 to 5 years, or as recommended based on system usage and household size.

 

Regular inspections and pumping help prevent system failures, backups, and groundwater contamination.

 

🧼 Think at the Sink

 

Don’t:

• Pour cooking grease, oil, or fats down the sink or toilet.

• Rinse coffee grounds into the sink.

• Dispose of household chemicals (like paint, drain cleaners, or pesticides) through your plumbing.

 

Do:

• Minimize or eliminate the use of your garbage disposal—it increases solid waste in your tank.

• Dispose of food scraps and coffee grounds in the trash or compost.

• Let grease cool and solidify in a container, then throw it in the trash.

 

🚽 Don’t Overload the Commode

 

Don’t:Flush anything besides human waste and toilet paper. This includes:

• Feminine hygiene products

• Diapers

• Condoms

• Dental floss

• Cat litter

• Cigarette butts

• Paper towels

• Pharmaceuticals

 

Do:

• Throw these non-degradable items in the trash instead.

 

Even products labeled “flushable” can clog or damage your septic system.

 

🌳 Shield Your Field

 

Your drainfield plays a critical role in treating and dispersing wastewater. Damaging it can lead to system failure.

 

Don’t:

• Park, drive, or build structures over your drainfield—the weight can crush drain lines.

• Plant trees or shrubs too close to the field—roots can grow into and clog the system.

 

Do:

• Consult a septic professional about safe planting distances based on your tank and drainfield layout.

• Only grow grass over and near your drainfield.

 

🚿 Don’t Strain Your Drain

 

Using too much water in a short time can overwhelm your system and flush solids into your drainfield.

 

Don’t:

• Run the dishwasher, washing machine, toilet, and shower all at once—this can overload your septic system.

• Ignore plumbing leaks or dripping faucets.

 

Do:

• Stagger use of water-heavy appliances throughout the day.

• Fix leaks promptly and consider installing low-flow faucets and toilets to reduce water usage.

 

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your septic system isn’t complicated—it just takes a little mindfulness and a few good habits. By following these simple Do’s and Don’ts from the EPA’s SepticSmart program, you’ll protect your investment, avoid messy problems, and help preserve the environment.