Protecting Your OnSite Sewage System

Protecting your OnSite Sewage System, or OSS, is important as it can help your OSS achieve a longer lifespan. One of the most important ways you can protect your OSS is to watch what goes down the drains and into your system. You'll want to keep grease, hair and food scraps from going down the drain as much as possible. It's important not to flush diapers, flushable wipes, plastics, paper towels, cigarettes, kitty litter, personal hygiene or birth control products down the toilet. These items do not break down once they're in your system, and can cause back ups, the need for frequent pump outs, and worst case scenario, can cause your system to fail prematurely. Automatic toilet bowl cleaners, deodorizers and garbage disposals should be avoided, as these items also do not break down once they're in the system. You'll want to carefully watch the use of strong drain cleaners (such as Draino, etc) and other chemicals. These chemicals have a negative impact on the bacteria needed to break down the organic matter in the septic tanks. Never pour products labeled as "danger" or "poison" down the drain. These items should be safely disposed of at the Moderate Risk Waste Facility. They can be reached at 360-377-5777.

Doing laundry is an important part of everyday life, however, there are some key things to remember in this area as well. Don't overuse detergents, minimize the use of liqiud fabric softeners and use dryer sheets whenever possible. It's also important to note that some powdered detergents have fillers which can clog the pipes of your septic system. Having a day set aside as "Laundry Day" may seem convenient, however, it's better to spread laudry throughout the week, allowing your drainfield to recover in between loads. Try to do no more than two loads a day. You'll also want to keep an eye on leaky fixtures and toilets and get them fixed. Conserving water whenever possible is another great way to protect your OSS. 

It's important to know where your OSS is located on your property. This helps ensure the drain field is not being driven over or parked on. Digging in both your drainfield and your reserve area should be avoided. It's best to only plant grass in the drain field areas, as roots from trees and shrubs can clog and damagae a drain field. 

For more information on caring for your septic system, click here.

To see what a septic design looks like on paper, or to familiarize yourself with the different kinds of systems, click here.