If you use an on-site sewage system, or if you are buying a home with an on-site system, this owner's guide can help you be sure that your on-site sewage system is used and maintained properly.

Limit Disposal to Sewage

• Don't use your septic tank as a trash can for cigarette butts, facial tissues, sanitary napkins, cotton swabs, cat box litter, coffee grounds or disposable diapers.
• Restrict the use of your garbage disposal.
• Don't put grease or cooking oil into the system.
• Don't poison your system with harmful chemicals such as solvents, oils, paints, thinners, disinfectants, pesticides, poisons and other substances. These chemicals can kill bacteria that help purify sewage, and they can also contaminate groundwater.
• Save money. Commercial septic tank additives are not necessary. Some additives may actually harm your septic tank and soil absorption area. The bacteria needed for partially decomposing the tank solids are naturally present in sewage. Even if you use additives, you will still need to pump the solids out of your tank periodically.