Not A Sexy Subject - Your Septic System

Does this image conjure up sludge, scum or a "phenomenal design of nature"? 

How on earth do we broach the subject of septic systems without a little "yuck" thrown in the conversation. 

Did you know that...


More than 25 million American homeowners have an on-site sewer treatment system; they include suburbs and small towns as well as rural areas. 

This means that each household decomposes waste and returns quality water to the watershed by way of their on-site system. Pretty cool right?

Now if you are like me, and so many others, you think "so it's great that I have it, a must for sure, but most important - what do I need to do to keep it working".

Here are a few of the what "to do's" and what "not to do's" that will determine the life span and proper functioning of your system... 

Don't:
garbage disposals - light infrequent use is recommended
grease - an enemy for sure - slows down the bacterial action and consticts the sewer line
coffee grids - nope
fruit peels - nope
kitty litter - definitely not
sanitary supplies - no way

these items can not be broken down and they clog up the pipes and soil around them

Limit the number of loads of laundry you do a day - why you ask?
Each load discharges about 44 gallons of water. If too much water goes into the septic tank the solids are washed out before they settle and clog the leaching field.

Watch for plumbing leaks - the earth will become saturated and the system can stop working.

Household products that read: (you must avoid these)

• Harmful or fatal if swallowed
• Avoid contact with skin
• Do not get in cuts or sores
• If comes in contact with eyes, call a physician immediately

Last but not least:
paints
paint thinner
pesticides 
antifreeze
gasoline and oil

Goodness - my mom loves to clean with bleach, she evens likes the smell - but bleach should be avoid at all costs.

Well I hope this blog (sexy as it is not) has peaked your curiosity to learn more about your septic system. 

There are several companies in Charlottesville and surrounding counties who will come talk with you and check for potential problems. Give them a call!

p.s - this post was a day late. It may happen again, but I am shooting for Sundays, always.