How to care for a septic system
EPA says an average household septic system should be inspected by a professional at least every three years, and systems with electrical float switches, pumps or other mechanical parts about once a year. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years, depending on household size, wastewater volume, solids and tank size.
How to care for a septic system
Checklist
- Have a professional inspect the system (average system)Every 3 years
- Have a professional inspect a system with pumps, float switches or other mechanical partsYearly
- Pump the tank, based on your inspector's findingsEvery 3-5 years
- Fix leaky or running toiletsAs needed
- Keep vehicles, structures and trees off the drainfieldAlways
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How often to inspect and pump
EPA recommends that an average household septic system be inspected by a septic service professional at least every three years. Systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or other mechanical parts should be inspected more often, about once a year, and EPA recommends a service contract for them.
Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. EPA says the schedule depends on household size, the amount of wastewater, the solids in it and the size of the tank. It says to pump when the bottom of the scum layer is within 6 inches of the outlet, when the top of the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the outlet, or when sludge and scum fill more than 25 percent of the liquid depth.
What not to flush or pour down the drain
EPA says only human waste and toilet paper should go down the toilet. It lists cooking grease or oil, wet wipes (including baby wipes), feminine hygiene products, condoms, dental floss, diapers, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, paper towels, medications and household chemicals such as gasoline, pesticides, antifreeze and paint as things to keep out.
For clogs, EPA says to avoid chemical drain openers and use boiling water or a drain snake instead. It also advises limiting garbage disposal use, since food waste adds solids that can mean more frequent pumping.
Use less water
EPA says indoor water use can reach about 70 gallons per person per day, and that a single leaky or running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons per day. It suggests low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads, running full loads or choosing the right load size in the washer, and spreading laundry across the week instead of doing it all in one day.
Protect the drainfield
EPA says not to park or drive on the drainfield, not to build structures on it without checking with a local designer or permitting authority, and not to cover it with concrete or asphalt, which blocks oxygen to the soil. Do not plant trees, shrubs or vegetable gardens on it; native grasses and ground covers are the best choice. Keep roof drains, sump pumps and other rainwater drainage away from the drainfield area.
Questions
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
EPA says household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years, depending on household size, wastewater volume, solids and tank size.
How often should a septic system be inspected?
At least every three years for an average system, and about once a year for one with float switches, pumps or other mechanical parts, according to EPA.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners with a septic system?
EPA says to avoid chemical drain openers and to use boiling water or a drain snake for clogs.
Sources
Related guides
General guidance for typical homes. Follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions and local codes, and hire a pro for anything you're not comfortable doing.