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i 13-78 ■ SECTION 13: Forms and Reference UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA Septic System Best ` '' Management Practices Septic systems protect human health and the environment by safely recycling wastewater and returning it to the natural environment.It is your job as the homeowner to be sure this happens effectively and safely.As with your car,regular maintenance and attention is needed to keep it operating efficiently in a cost effective manner. Septic Tank Soil Treatment Area: TrenchorMound Functions: Functions: • Separates into three layers: scum(stuff that floats), • Soil organisms destroy pathogens(bacteria,viruses). sludge(stuff that sinks),and the liquid. • Remove phosphorus,reduce nitrogen content. • The solids and scum are held until removed by the • Recycle clean water into the soil and ground water. maintainer.Anaerobic bacteria work to break down Water and nutrients enter the ground water,evaporate wastes,prepare the liquid for the drainfield. throu • The liquid is delivered to the soil treatment area to Best management practices: h plants,and are a by plants. complete the treatment process. • Maintain vegetative cover(turf grass,native grasses, • If solids are not removed,they can end up in the soil flowers).Mow,but do not fertilize,bum or over-water. treatment area,causing(often irreparable)damage. • Keep all vehicles,bikes,snowmobiles,etc.off. • Factors that increase frequency of pumping:use of • Do not plant trees or shrubs near drainfield. garbage disposal,water treatment unit that discharges • Inspect for cracked,missing inspection pipe covers. into the septic system,in-home daycare or other reason • Follow practices to prevent freezing,including a large number of people are present most of the time, mulching the entire system if needed. laundry on the 2nd floor,excessive use of water and strong cleaning products. Household Best Management Practices Best management practices: Manage water use: • Tanks need to be evaluated every two to three years • Repair all leaking faucets,toilets,fixtures. and pumped if necessary. Some counties require • Change to low flow toilets,shower heads. pumping on a specified basis.New homes—pump • Replace appliances with low water use models. •• Spread water uses evenly throughout the day and week.. within 3-12 months of occupancy the first time. • Never allow a tank to be cleaned through the inspection • Re-route clean water sources:water softener,treatment pipe.This is not allowed by code,and it does not allow unit recharge water,high efficiency furnace drip,sump a good cleaning to occur. Scum can plug the baffle pumps to separate drainage area. baffles can be knocked off.Tanks should only be Watch what goes down the drain: • The toilet is not a garbage can—nothing should be cleaned through the manhole or maintenance hole. • Be sure baffles,effluent screen,pumps and other flushed except human waste and toilet paper. • Excess medications—return to pharmacy or land-fill.components are inspected when the tank is pumped. • Install risers on the manhole covers to allow easier • Limit or eliminate drain cleaner use. • Do not use automatic toilet cleaners,disposable brushes. access.Insulate the cover and secure tightly. • An effluent screen will prevent most solids from • Do not use every-use or automatic shower cleaners. • No hazardous waste,paints,solvents,chemicals.Use reaching the soil treatment area. Install and clean according to manufacturer recommendations. disposable paint brushes. • Never use additives. The cleaners are harmful to your • Eliminate or limit use of garbage disposal. • No chlorine treated water such as from hot tubs. system.They do not replace good management practices. Starters and feeders are not effective. Manage product use: • Warning:NEVER go into a septic tank—there are • Minimize use of anti-bacterial soaps,cleansers. • Detergents:measure accurately,use as little as possible. dangerous gases and no oxygen! • Do not ignore alarms—troubleshoot the problem. • Limit use of bleach-based cleansers. Septage—the solids from the tank are usually land-applied.Lime is added in the truck to destroy pathogens and help control odors. Septic pumpers must follow strict guidelines to protect public safety and water quality.Septage disposal is managed by the MN Pollution Control Agency(MPCA)and the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA). For more information:Order the Septic System Owner's Guide.Call 800-876-8636 or go to http://shop.extension.umn.edu. Onsite Sewage Treatment Program web site: http•//septic umn edu University of Minnesota Extension http://www.extension.ummedtt. Wri©2008 Regents of the University of Minnesota.All rights Reserved.The University of Minnesota ilea by yui Valerie Prax,Regional Extension Educator,6/07 I/09 made available in alternative formats for people with disabilities.Call the Water Resources Center,612-624-9282. This material can be