Septic System Care

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why Should I CARE About Maintaining My System?

•   Without regular maintenance, a septic system will fail. (It’s the homeowners’ responsibility to maintain the system!)

•   Protect your drinking water and the environment. (A properly working septic will remove pollutants and disease- causing bacteria and viruses (such as E. coli).)

•Save money and protect your investment in your home. (It only costs about $150 every 3 years to maintain your system, while a new system could cost thousands!)

How Can I PROPERLY MAINTAIN My System?

•   The average septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a professional.

•   Limit excessive water usage in your home.

•   Protect your home’s drinking water for you and your family -NEVER flush hazardous materials into the system!

•   Expensive additives are not necessary and they do NOT eliminate the need for pumping!

·         Yes! If you see plumbing backups, sluggish drainage, or mushy ground around the drainfield, call a septic company IMMEDIATELY! (Click here for a list of licensed septic pumpers in your area) 

Do’s and Don’ts

DO

• Learn the location of your septic         

tank and drainfield from your septic

company.

• Have your septic system inspected

every three years.

• Call a professional whenever you

experience problems.

• Keep a detailed record of repairs

• Conserve water to avoid overloading

the system.

• Divert sources of water, like roof

drains, house footing drains, and

sump pumps away from the septic

system. 

DON’T

• Go down into a septic tank EVER.

Toxic gases in the tank can kill in

minutes.

• Allow anyone to park or drive over

the system.

• Plant anything besides grass over or

near the drainfield.

• Dig in your drainfield or build

anything over it.

• Make or allow repairs without

obtaining the required health

department permit. 

To print a fact sheet for your community's news letter Click Here.

Click to view presentation from the Berrien County Health Dept. about septic systems!