Free Help


Click on any link below for free help - useful, free information for you about your septic system!  The information on this page has been provided by Clallam County.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SEPTIC SYSTEMS DO'S AND DON'TS

DO'S

  • DO Inspect system and tank levels annually

  • DO Pump tank regularly (every 3-5 years)

  • DO Use water wisely!

  • DO Know where you septic is and protect it

  • DO Keep vehicles off tank and drain field areas

  • DO Use phosphate-free detergents and recommended amounts

  • DO Keep septic tank lids accessible (install risers)

  • DO Keep accurate, detailed records  (inspections, pumping)

  • DO Pass along all records to new property owners

  • DO Save loose change to cover future septic service


     back to top



    DON'TS!
  • Don't use garbage disposals!

  • Don't drive or park vehicles on the drain field

  • Don't use tank additives or "miracle" system cleaners

  • Don't flush non-biodegradable solid wastes such as:

    • coffee grounds
    • grease
    • oil
    • plastic
    • bones
    • kitty litter
    • tampons and / or applicators
    • condoms
    • cigarette butts

  • Don't pour strong chemicals down the drain:

    • drain cleaners
    • solvents
    • paint
    • bleach
    • floor/sink cleaners

  • Don't discard medications down the drain:

    • antibiotics
    • antibacterial soaps or detergents

  • Don't cover the drain field or reserve in any way:

    • concrete
    • pavement
    • above or below ground pools

  • Don't compact the soils of drain fields or reseve areas:

    • patios
    • carports
    • decks
    • sports courts
    • storage sheds

  • Don't drain water from hot tubs into the system

  • Don't allow driveways to cross over septic system

     back to top

SEPTIC SYSTEMS 101 

A Quick Lesson For Every Homeowner

A basic septic system has 3 parts:  the septic tank, the drain field, and the
soil beneath the drain field.

All water and wastes enter the tank at the inlet baffle.  The solids then settle out to the bottom.  This is referred to as the sludge layer.  Lighter solids like fat, grease and paper, float to the top and create the scum layer.  What lies between these two layers is called the effluent.  It is a clear, treatable liquid.

Settling is very important to a system's ongoing performance.  Washington Code now requires all new tanks to have two like compartments.  The effluent crosses over through a center baffle to settle out layers for a second time.  Microbes digest and break down much of the waste ~ therefore creating a better treatment.

The effluent then leaves the tank through the outlet baffle and flows down a pipe to the drain field.  A normal drain field is comprised of several parallel, perforated 4-inch pipes.  A distribution box is needed to ensure that the flow remains equal to all parts of the field.  Drain fields are located just below the surface and are usually filled with gravel.

As the effluent seeps out the pipes, it trickles down through the gravel to the soil underneath.  Through natural biological processes, the soild purifies the wastewater and allows it to return to the water table and be reused.

 back to top

 

SIGNS OF SEPTIC SYSTEM FAILURE

Warning Signs of System Failure!

  • Odors and surfacing sewage

  • Wet spots or lush vegetation in the drain field area

  • Plumbing or septic tank backups

  • Slow draining fixtures

  • Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system

    Water use and proper maintenance are the two most critical ways you can dramatically extend the life of your septic.  Failing this, the drain field may fail, possibly causing expensive damage which pumping will not reverse!

    Do you have a failing septic system?  If repair or replacement needs to be done and money is a limiting factor, there is help! 

    Clallam County has a water-quality fund that offers low-interest loans.  Selection is based on the benefits to water quality or human health and financial need.  Interest is low and terms are long! 

    Their local number is (360) 417-2420.

 back to top