The septic tank removes solids by holding wastewater in the tank, which allows the solids to settle and scum to rise to the top.

Biological and chemical additives are not needed to aid or accelerate settling or decomposition. As a general rule, no solids other than human waste and white toilet paper should be flushed.

Do:
1. Pump your septic tank regularly to prevent build up of solids which will damage the drainfield:
About every 3 to 6 years for the typical family usage
2. Routinely check for plumbing leaks (i.e., toilets that do not shut off completely, dripping faucet, etc….). These add excess water to the septic system and may cause system failure.
3. Use water saving devices (restrictive flow shower heads, low flush toilets).
4. Be aware of where your drainfield is buried. Marking the boundaries is a good idea.
5. Providing a lawn and/or shallow rooted plants may help the drainfield disperse water.
6. Keep track of your septic permit. Of particular importance are:
a. Your as-built drawing showing the location of your tank and drainfield.
b. Your Certificate of Satisfactory Completion.
c. The plot plan issued with the septic permit showing the designated repair area.

Do Not:
1. Drive, park, pave, or cover the drainfield with plastic. The drainfield needs air to function.
2. Flush excessive amount of grease, bleach, or any caustic chemicals, paint, or disposable diapers into the septic system.
3. Plant large trees or shrubs over drainfield. Be careful when planting a garden over a drainfield, some are covered with only 6 inches of soil. Deep tilling can damage the drainfields.
4. Build any structures over the drainfield.
5. Drill a well within 100 feet of the drainfield or the replacement area.
6. Flood, irrigate, or otherwise cause excessive amount of surface water over the drain field area (i.e., roof drains, downspouts, etc..).
7. Disconnect washing machine waste from septic and empty onto ground. This waste is contaminated and should be treated as sewage.
8. Wash Laytex paint (not even water base) products down your drain, it will create toxic chemical in tank.
9. Do not: use anti bacterial products as it will kill the active bacteria in the tank.
10. Use garbage disposal sparingly. If you do not eat it, it doesn't go in the tank.