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.

Septic Tank

• Install a riser over the tank, if it is buried six inches or deeper, to provide access.
• Keep track of how quickly sludge and scum accumulate in the tank.
• Have solids pumped out of the tank as needed.
• Don't wait until your drainfield fails to have your tank pumped. By then the drainfield may be ruined. With septic systems, an ounce of prevention is worth more than a ton of cure!
• Hire a professional to assure proper maintenance, as in these cases: ATU, LPP, drip irrigation, mound system, sand filter system and other interactive systems.
• Be sure the pump, electrical controls, floats and alarm on your LPP, ATU, pump to conventional, or pressure manifold system continue working properly between scheduled maintenance visits.