2014-01242 - septic mound system

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UN I V ERS ITY Septic System Management Plan �''� for Above Grade Systems ��' OF MINNESOTA �� � J Professional Management Tasks These are the operation and maintenance activities that a pumper/maintainer performs to help ensure long-term performance of your system. Professionals should refer to the O/M Manual for detailed checklists for tanks,pumps, alarms and other components. Call 800-322-8642 for more details. • Written record provided to homeowner after each visit. Plumbing/Source of Wastewater • Review the Water Use Appliance Chart on Page 5 with homeowner. Discuss any changes in water use and the impact those changes may have on the septic system. • Review water usage rates(if available)with homeowner. Septic Tank/Pump Tanks • Manhole lid. A riser is recommended if the lid is not accessible from the ground surface. Insulate the riser cover for frost protection. • Liquid level. Check to make sure the tank is not leaking. The liquid level should be level with the bottom of the outlet pipe. (If the water level is below the bottom of the outlet pipe, the tank may not be watertight. If the water level is higher than the bottom of the outlet pipe of the tank, the effluent screen may need cleaning,or there may be ponding in the drainfield.) • Inspection pipes. Replace damaged caps. • Baf�les. Check to make sure they are in place and attached, and that inlet/outlet baffles are clear of buildup or obstructions. • Ef�luent screen. Check to make sure it is in place; clean per manufacturer recommendation. Recommend retrofitted installation if one is not present. • Alarm. Verify that the alarm works. • Scum and sludge. Measure scum and sludge in each comparhnent of each septic and pump tank, pump if needed. Pump • Pump and controls. Check to make sure the pump and controls are operating correctly. • Pump vault. Check to make sure it is in place;clean per manufacturer recommendations. • Alarm.Verify that the alarm works. • Drainback. Check to make sure it is operating properly. • Event counter or run time. Check to see if there is an event counter or run time log for the pump. If there is one, calculate the water usage rate and compaze to the anticipated average daily flow listed on Page 2. Soil Treatment Area • Inspection pipes. Check to make sure they are properly capped. Replace caps that are damaged. • Surfacing of ef�`luent. Check for surfaced effluent or other signs of problems. • Lateral flushing. Check lateral distribution; if cleanouts exist, flush and clean as needed. • Ponding. Check for ponding. Excessive ponding in at-grade and mound beds indicates problems. All other com�onents—inspect as Gsted here: Check for ponding or any standing of sewage in chambers when system is idle due to unique location to assure proper percolation. -4 -