Pumping septic tank. Regular pumping of the septic tank every 2 to 4 years is recommended for most residential systems.
...more Yearly (or more frequent) pumping may be required for commercial septic systems or systems serving multiple residences. The frequency of pumping depends on your use of the septic system. Typically, homes with a higher number of residents (more than 4 people) or young children require more frequent pumping (every 2 years) due to the larger amount of solids and fats from increased food preparation and clothes washing.
Filter maintenance. If your septic tank has an outlet filter, you should have it inspected and maintained at least once every year.
...moreIn some cases more frequent maintenance is required. Your septic pumper or professional septic inspector/contractor can set up a schedule to remove and clean the septic tank outlet filter. We recommend installing filters on systems that use garbage disposals. Frequent use of the garbage disposal would require more frequent filter cleaning.
Pump tank inspections. If your system has a pump tank, annual (or more frequent) pump tank inspections are recommended. In some states regular pump tank inspections are required.
...more These inspections can identify potential problems before they become costly fixes. As a minimum, the pump tanks should be inspected by a septic system professional whenever a pump tank alarm activates.
Grease tank (trap) inspections. These only apply to certain commercial properties.
...more As a minimum, monthly inspection and measurement of grease build-up in outdoor grease tanks is recommended. Your actual use may dictate more frequent inspections. The smaller indoor/kitchen grease traps may require daily inspection and cleaning.
Complete septic system inspections. Periodic inspections are required by some states and many states require septic system inspection for the sale of a property. Be aware of the requirements in your state. See also Septic System Inspections
Maintain the vegetation over your drain field.
...more Most drain fields have a grass surface. Maintain the grass cover by regular mowing. This will discourage the growth of deep rooted trees and shrubs that can plug the drain field. Repair any damage to the grass cover to prevent erosion from washing away the cover soils over your drain field.
Divert drainage runoff away from your drain field.
...more Make sure that roof drains, foundation drains, and sump pumps are not conveying water onto the drain field. Any swales or runoff ditches that divert surface flow away from the drain field may require maintenance clearing or cleaning.
Record Keeping. Keep records of septic system that include:
Location Sketch/Plan ...more This should include your septic tank, D-box and your drain field and other buried features. This could be either a plan prepared by a septic system professional or a sketch prepared by the home owner. The plan or sketch should show distances to buried components from at least two fixed reference points like the corners of the house or other nearby structures.
Pumping records ...more This should include the date of pumping and any observations made by the pumper regarding the operation of your system; for example “the tank is in good shape”, “liquid level is normal”, “the solids and fats are high”, etc. The pumper's comments may also indicate whether you should pump more or less frequently and that there may be other actions you should be taking to protect your system.
Inspection Reports ...more These reports provide a good snapshot of system operation and often include location sketches of the system components. See also Septic System Inspections
Permits ...more Permits issued by government agencies may have specific maintenance and reporting requirements. These are particularly important for any Innovative/Alternative septic system.
Water Conservation.
...more Minimize water use. Install water saving fixtures (faucets, shower heads, and toilets). Routinely check for and repair leaking faucets and toilets.