Maintain and Upgrade Septic Systems

SepticSystemDiagram

In areas without public sewer service, household wastewater (from bathrooms, kitchen and laundry) is treated by a septic system.  A septic system has two major components:  a septic tank and a drain field.  Wastewater flows from the house to the septic tank, which retains water long enough for heavy solids to settle to the bottom.  A solid pipe leads from the septic tank to a distribution box where untreated waste water is directed to the drain field—one or more perforated pipes set in trenches of gravel.  Here, the water slowly infiltrates into the underlying soil. 

Did you know?

  • Even though wastewater is much cleaner than when it entered the septic tank, it still contains pollutants.

  • 25% of all homes in Anne Arundel County have septic systems. Each of these systems, in good condition, releases about 30 pounds of nitrogen per year into our waterways.

  • You can install a Best Available Technology (BAT) nitrogen reducing septic system.

Take Action:

  • Pump out your tank every two to three years. If the tank gets too full, sludge particles will flush out of the tank and clog the drain lines, and leach out into surface water. The EPA recommends tanks be pumped before sludge and scum accumulations exceed 30% of the tank volume.

  • Do not add starter enzymes or yeast to your system. Additives have not been scientifically proven to improve the performance of your system.

  • Do not pour fats and oils, antibacterial or antiseptic products, chlorine bleach, solvents, chemicals, pesticides, paint thinner, or auto products down the drain.  These substances can kill the good bacteria that make the system function.

  • Do not put trash in the toilet such as paper towels, tissues, cigarette butts, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, tampons, or condoms. These items do not break down quickly and can fill the septic tank.

  • Dense grass cover and other shallow-rooted plants are beneficial over a drain field, however, do not plant trees near a drain field because large plant roots can clog or break the pipes.

  • Use biodegradable laundry detergent.

 

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