Protect your drain field between pumpings

The drain field (also called a leach field or soil absorption field) is where wastewater from the tank is treated by the soil. It is the most expensive part of a septic system to repair, and most failures start with what goes into the house drains. EPA's SepticSmart program sums up good habits in four points: pump, use water efficiently, dispose of waste properly and maintain the drain field.

Use water efficiently

• Spread out laundry over the week rather than doing every load on the same day.
• Fix leaks: a running toilet can send a large volume of water through the tank every day.
• Choose high-efficiency fixtures and appliances, such as WaterSense labeled toilets and showerheads.
• Send roof drains and sump pumps away from the drain field.

Think before you flush or pour

Only human waste and toilet paper belong in the toilet. Keep out:

• wipes (even those labeled flushable), paper towels, diapers and feminine products;
• cooking grease and oil, coffee grounds, cat litter;
• paints, solvents, medicines and harsh chemicals, which can kill the bacteria that treat wastewater.

A garbage disposal adds a lot of solids: if you use one, expect to pump more often.

Care for the drain field itself

• Do not park or drive on the drain field: the weight compacts the soil and can crush pipes.
• Plant only grass over it. Trees and shrubs should be kept at a distance so roots do not clog the lines; ask your septic professional how far.
• Do not build patios, sheds or pools over any part of the system.

Keep up the schedule

Habits slow down the build-up of solids, but they do not replace regular inspection and pumping. If you do not know when the tank was last pumped, describe your system in the form and licensed local pumpers get back to you.