2) Overuse a kitchen garbage disposal unit. Heavy use adds large quantities of solids & shortens the time between pumpings.

3) Put harmful materials in the tank. Avoid fats, solvents, oils, disinfectants, paints, chemicals, pesticides, poisons, coffee grounds, paper towels, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins & tampons.

4) Place impermeable materials over your drainfield. Materials such as concrete or plastic reduce evaporation & the supply of oxygen to the soil for proper effluent treatment. They can also hinder access to the system for pumping, inspection, or repair.

5) Fertilize the soil above a drainfield.

6) Stockpile snow or soil on your drain field.

7) Allow downspouts to drain onto or into your drainfield.

8) Enter a dosing chamber or septic tank. Poisonous gases or the lack of oxygen can be fatal. Any work on the tank must be done from the outside.

Septic System Layout
If you do not have a sketch showing where your septic system is located on your property, use the grid provided to show the location of your septic system components in relation to your house.

Preventive Maintenance Record
Keeping a record of your septic system maintenance experience will help you anticipate when the next cleaning may be needed.

Related Plumbing Article • connecting a garbage disposer to a septic tank