Do’s and Don’ts
Don’t Let This Happen to You!
Pumping
Pumping the septic tank is periodic maintenance, which is necessary even though there aren’t any apparent problems. Waiting for a symptom or problem can damage the septic system, clog the fields, or cause a backup which will inconvenience the homeowner and cost them thousands of dollars.
The cleaning interval is determined by how many people live at the residence and the size of the septic tank. CT State Code requires a minimum capacity septic tank of a 1000 gallons for up to a 3 bedroom house, 1250 gallons for a 4 bedroom house, and 1500 gallons for a 5 bedroom house.
On average, it is recommended that the septic tank be pumped every two to three years. If there is a garbage disposal or the tank is smaller then state code, the septic tank would need to be cleaned more often.
At Northwest Septic, we want to make routine septic cleaning as hassle free as possible. After we pump the septic tank the first time, we will send the homeowner periodic reminder notices in the mail letting them know that it is time to clean the septic tank again.
Septic System Do’s
- Pump your septic tank every 2 to 3 years
- Use liquid soap instead of powdered soap
- Use plain white toilet paper
- Check for and repair any leaky faucets or any leaky toilets
- Divert down spouts away from the septic tank and leaching area
- Remove water softener systems from the septic system
Septic System Don’ts
- Do Not use septic additives per the State Of Connecticut
- Do Not drive over the septic tank or leaching area
- Do Not build anything over the septic tank or leaching area
- Do Not plant anything over the septic tank or leaching area except grass
- Do Not do all your laundry in one day ….. space it out
- Do Not put the following in the septic system: baby wipes, paper towels, bandages, q-tips, condoms, tampons & applicators, sanitary napkins, panty liners, diapers, kitty litter, coffee grounds, grease, large amounts of bleach/drain cleaners, paint/varnish/thinners, or pesticides
(anything that states it is flushable is only usable if you are connected to City Sewer)
Signs of Septic System Malfunction and/or Failure
- Water draining slowly in the bathroom or kitchen
- Septic backing up into the house
- Septic odor
- High surface water in the leaching area
- Lush grass growth in the leaching area