Septic 101: Do's and Don'ts
DO
Collect grease in a container and dispose with your trashLearn the location of your septic tank and drain fieldUse liquid laundry soap, not powderConserve water to avoid overloading your septic system. Try to space out activities requiring heavy water use over several daysPlant large trees at least 20 feet away from the drain field to avoid any root damage. The canopy of trees can also block the sunlight, minimizing evaporation if placed too close to the drain fieldLimit the use of caustic or acid-based toilet bowl cleaner and drain cleaner because they are harmful to the good bacteria and micro-organisms in the septic tankTry to do full loads of laundry and space out the washing throughout the week. Use only low phosphate detergent. Leaching of phosphates can cause aquatic algae to bloom. The water in your drain field either evaporates or eventually merges with ground waterPUMP YOUR SEPTIC TANK ON A REGULAR BASISDONTPut motor oil, paint, paint thinners, gasoline, pesticides or herbicides down the drain. These substances are toxic to the septic tank bacteria and micro-organismsPour cooking oil, fats, grease or coffee grounds down the drain.Use the garbage disposal on kitchen scrap materialPour or flush cleaning agents with bleach or disinfectants down the drain. These chemicals will kill the good bacteria in the septic tank. Use a sodium based enzyme- automatic dishwasher detergentUse fabric softener in the washing machine. Put this product in the dryer, if at all possible.Flush feminine products, Q-tips, baby wipes, dental floss, or large amounts of hair down the drain, into the septic tankAllow anyone to drive or park over any part of the septic system or drain field 
