Be a Septic Skeptic this Season;
Out of sight should not mean out of mind.

With autumn's characteristic rising groundwater levels and wetter soil, it is important to have a well-maintained septic system.  All septic systems require regular maintenance or they can fail.  Make sure your septic system is properly maintained this season to protect your home from unwanted headaches.

Failed septic systems are messy problems, and poor maintenance is often the culprit.  Unusable or damaged systems lower your property value and are legal liabilities.  Not only are failed septic systems costly, but they are also hard to clean up.  They can pond wastewater full of phosphorus, nitrogen, and disease-causing pathogens onto your lawn.  Or, failed systems can result in the back-flow of wastewater into the house.

To ensure your septic system functions throughout its service life, make sure it is monitored regularly.  Schedule inspections with a professional every 3 years.  Systems with electrical float switches, pumps or mechanical components need to be inspected more often. Your service provider should inspect for leaks and look at the scum and sludge layers in your septic tank.  Remember to also keep accurate records of scheduled maintenance to ensure regularly inspected systems.  Have a happy and inviting home this season by being a septic skeptic; maintain your septic system!

For more information on maintaining your home's septic system, visit

Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems, by U.S. EPA

Maintaining Your Septic System pamphlet, by Prairie Rivers Network.