Aerobic Systems Do's and Don'ts

  • Maintain the contract service arrangement offered by the manufacturer after the initial two-year period has expired. It is extremely important that aerobic systems receive regular maintenance. The Law requires it.
  • Monitor and maintain chlorine in your disinfection unit at all times.
  • Call a service professional or your maintenance provider whenever you experience problems with your system, whenever the alarm is activated, or whenever there are any signs of system failure.
  • Use only licensed septic installers to conduct any repairs or modifications of your septic system. Always obtain a permit for any modification, expansion or alteration to your system.
  • Keep detailed records about your aerobic system, including a map of where it is, and general information, such as model name, capacity, state license, date installed, contract service agreement, records of service visits, and maintenance performed. Become familiar with how your own particular system operates, and the way it looks, sounds, and smells when it is working correctly. This way, you may be able to identify problems before they become serious and alert your service provider to anything unusual.
  • Conserve water to avoid overloading the system. Be sure to repair any leaky faucets or toilets.
  • Divert other sources of water, like roof drains, house footing drains, and sump pumps away from the aerobic system.
  • Keep your system accessible for inspections and pumping, yet protected from unauthorized entrance. If access to your system is locked, make sure that your service contractor has a key.

Don’ts

  • Do not tamper with or readjust your systems components.
  • Don't allow anyone to drive over or park on any part of the system.
  • Don't make or allow unauthorized repairs or changes to your aerobic system without obtaining the required permits.
  • Don't use your toilet or kitchen sink as a trash can by pouring harmful chemicals down the drain. Harsh chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria that treat your wastewater.
  • Don't use a garbage disposal without checking with your local regulatory agency to make sure that your aerobic system can accommodate this additional waste.
  • Don't attempt to clean or perform maintenance on any sealed aerobic unit components.
  • NEVER use swimming pool chlorine in your Aerobic System.
  • Never build a food crop garden in contact with your septic disposal area.

Do Not Flush:

  • Coffee Grounds
  • Kitty Litter
  • Cigarette Butts
  • Dental Floss
  • Sanitary Napkins
  • Condoms
  • Fat, Grease, or Oil
  • Disposable Diapers
  • Tampons
  • Gauze
  • Paper Towels
  • Paints
  • Varnishes
  • Thinners
  • Waste Oils
  • Pesticides
  • Photographic Solutions
  • Bandages