Dos & Don'ts

Mel's practical advise for using and caring for your septic system.

Mel's Top 10 Dos and Don'ts

1. DO have the septic tank pumped every three years (based on a typical family of four).
2. DON'T allow heavy vehicles or machinery to drive over the area of the septic tank or lateral field.
3. DO use detergents that are labeled “septic friendly” or “septic safe.”
4. DON'T flush cigarette butts down the toilet – they will not break down into sludge.
5. DO use a bacteria product (flushed down the toilet monthly). We recommend and sell products suited for your system.
6. DON'T plant trees near the lateral field – their roots eventually will grow into the lateral system.
7. DO space out the timing of your showers and loads of laundry so you do not overload the tank and laterals.
8. DON'T put really greasy foods down the garbage disposal.
9. DO check bathroom vent pipes in the spring and fall for bird’s nests or wasp nests.
10. DON'T pour motor oil down floor drains.