Maintenance

Start with the septic system maintenance calendar: what to do monthly, yearly and every few years.

Two parts get far less attention than they deserve. The effluent filter is something most owners have never heard of, and worn baffles are a common serious finding in older tanks. Day to day, what goes down the drain matters most, so we cover what not to flush, bleach, septic-safe toilet paper and whether additives and enzyme treatments are worth the money. If you would rather hand the job over, see what a maintenance contract covers.

How often to pump depends on tank size and household use. If you are unsure, have the tank measured at the next service instead of guessing.