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� 3-]6 ■ SECTIQN 13: Forms and Reference
<br /> UNIVERSITY ,
<br /> 4F MINNES4TA Sept�c System �Best V
<br /> Management Practices
<br /> Septic systems protect human b.ealth and the environtnent by safely recycling wastewater and returning it to the natural
<br /> environment.It is your job as the homeowner to be sure this happens effectively and safely.As with your car,regular
<br /> maintenance and attention is needed to keep it operating efficiently in a cost effective manner.
<br /> Sep�ic Taak Soii'I�reatment Area: lYench or M
<br /> Functions: Functions:
<br /> • Separates into three layers: scum(sfuff that floats), • Soil organisms destroy pathogens(bacteria,varuses).
<br /> sludge(stuffthat sinks),and the liquid. • Remove phosphorus,reduce nitrogen content.
<br /> • The soiids and scum are held until removed by the • Recycle clean water into the soiI and ground water.
<br /> maintainer.Anaerobic bacteria work to break down Water apd nutrients enter the ground water,evaporate
<br /> wastes,prepare the liquid for the drainfield, through plants,and are used by plants.
<br /> • The Iiquid is deiivered to the soil treatment area to Best managementpractices:
<br /> complete the treatment process. • Maintain ve eta#ive cover iurf
<br /> g ( grass,native grasses,
<br /> • If soIids are not removed,they can end up in the soil flowers).Mow,but do not fertilize,burn or over-water,
<br /> treatment area,causing(often irreparable)damage. • Keep ali vehicles,bikes,snowmobiles,etc, off.
<br /> • Factors that inccease frequency of pumging:use of • Do not plant trees or shrubs near drainfield.
<br /> garbage disposal,water treatment unit that discharges • Inspect.for cracked,missing inspection pipe covers.
<br /> into the septic system,in-l�ome daycare or other reason • Follow practices to prevent freeziug, inciuding
<br /> a large numher of people are present most of the time, muiching tlie entire system if needed.
<br /> iaundry on the 2nd flnor,excessive use of water and
<br /> strang cleaning products. Household Best Management Practices
<br /> Best management practices: Mana e water use:
<br /> • Tanks need to be evaluated every two to tluee years • Repair a111eaking faucets,toilets,fixtures. �
<br /> and pumped if necessary. Some counties require • C��ge to Iow flow toilets,showsr heads,
<br /> pttmping on a specif ed basis.New homes—pump • Reptace appliances wit}i low watar use models.
<br /> within 3-12 months of accupancy the fust time. • Spread water uses evenly throughout the day and week..
<br /> • Never ai[ow a tanlc to be cieaned through the inspection • Re-route clean water sources:water softener,freatment
<br /> pipe.This is not allawed by code,and it does not ailow �i�recharge water,high efficiency fiunace drip,sump
<br /> a good cleaning ta occur. Scum can plug the baffle, P�ps to separate drainage area.
<br /> ba#�es can be Irnocked off.Tanks shouId oniv be Watch what.goes down the drerin•
<br /> cleaned fhrough the manhole or maintenance hole. • '��toilet is not a garbage can—nothing shautd be
<br /> • Be sure baffles,effluent screen,p�unps and other flushed except human waste and toilet paper.
<br /> components are inspected when the tantc is pumped. • Excess medications—retuzn to pharmacy or land-fill.
<br /> • Install risers on the man}iole covers to allow easier • Limit oi eiiminate drain cleaner use.
<br /> access.Insulate the cover and secure tightly. • Do not use automatic toilet cleaners,disposable brushes.
<br /> • An effluent screen will prevent most solids fram • Do not iise every-use or autamatic shower cleaners.
<br /> reaching the soil treatment area.Install and clean • No hazardous waste,paints,solvents, chemicals.Use
<br /> according to manufacturer recommendations. disposable paint brushes.
<br /> • Never use additives.The cleaners are harmfui to your • �l��ate or limit use of garbage disposal.
<br /> system.They do not replace goad mat�agement • No chlorine treated water such as from hot tubs.
<br /> pzactices. Starters and feeders are not effective. Mana e roduct use:
<br /> • Waruing;NEVER go into a sept�c tank—there are • M��ze use of anti-bacterial soaps,cieansers.
<br /> dangerous gases and no oxygen! • Detergents:measure accurateiy,use as little as possible.
<br /> � Do not ignore alarzns—troubleshoot the problem. • Limit use of bleack-based cleansers.
<br /> Septag�-the solids from the tanlc are nsually land-applied.Lime is added in the truck to destroy pathogens and help
<br /> controI odors. Septic pumpers must foIlow strict guidelines to protect public safety and water quality. Septage disposal is
<br /> managed by the MN PolIution Control Agency(MPCA}and the Environtnental Protection Agency(EPA). �
<br /> For more information:Order the Septic System(?wner's Guide.Ca[1 SU0=876-8636 or go to http://shop.extension.umn.edu.
<br /> Onsite Sewage Treatment Program web site: h ://se tic.umn.edu.University o£Minnesota Extension h ://www.extension.urnn.edu.
<br /> Written by Valerie Pra�c,Regional Extension Educator,6/07
<br /> �2008 Regents of the University of Minr�esota.All rights Reserved The University of Minnesota is an equaj oppoitunity educator and employer.This material can bc
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