Do's & Don'ts

Important Septic System Do's & Don'ts

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ACME Septic has the knowledge you need to properly care for your septic system. In business since 1987, our family-owned business has over 30 years of experience. We're certified by the National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT), which is essential for inspections, and our highly trained team attends yearly NAWT classes to stay up to date.

Septic System Do's

Do learn the location of your septic tank and drain field. Keep a sketch of it with your maintenance record for service visits
Do have your septic tank pumped out regularly by a licensed contractor
Do keep your septic tank cover accessible for inspections and pumpings. Install risers if necessary
Do call a professional whenever you experience problems with your system or if there are any signs of system failure
Do keep a detailed record of repairs, pumpings, inspections, permits issued, and other maintenance activities
Do conserve water to avoid overloading the system. Be sure to repair any leaky faucets or toilets
Do divert other sources of water, like roof drains, house footing drains, and sump pumps away from the septic system. Excessive water keeps the soil in the drain field from naturally cleansing the wastewater

Septic System Don'ts

Don't allow anyone to drive or park over any part of the system
Don't plant anything over or near the drain field except grass. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs may clog and damage the drain lines
Don't dig in your drain field or build anything over it, and don't cover tile drain field with a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt The area over the drain field should have only a grass cover. The grass will not only prevent erosion but will also help remove excess water
Don't make or allow repairs to your septic system without obtaining the required health department permit. Use professional licensed septic contractors when needed
Don't use septic tank additives. These products usually do not help and some may even be harmful to your system
Don't use your toilet as a trash can or poison your septic system and the groundwater by pouring harmful chemicals and cleaners down the drain. Harsh chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria that treat your wastewater
Don't allow backwash from home water softeners to enter the septic system
Don't go down into a septic tank. Toxic gasses are produced by the natural treatment processes in septic tanks and can kill in minutes. Extreme care should be taken when inspecting a septic tank, even when just looking in