Homeowner Septic System Guide and Record Folder (EBR-0644)

EBR-2022-0644  |  March 2023

Homeowner Septic System Guide and Record Folder

This resource will help homeowners keep important septic system information in one location. In addition, important maintenance practices are described to help maintain effective treatment, reduce environmental and public health risks, and prolong the system's life, thereby saving money.

Recommended Maintenance Practices

• The most important maintenance is to routinely pump your tank! Pumping your tank removes the sludge and scum, preventing them from clogging your drainfield. If you own a conventional system, with a standard septic tank, you should pump your tank every three to five years. Contact your local approving authority (which is typically your county health department) for information on certified septic pumpers. If you own aBAT or advanced treatment unit, the pumping procedure and schedule varies amongBAT manufacturers. Call your BAT service provider or manufacturer for details.
• Fix leaking toilets and sinks. Your system is designed to handle a specific volume of wastewater per day. Leaks can overload it.
• Use water efficiently and space out showers, laundry, and dishwashing. This helps to reduce the daily wastewater flow. Do not do more than two loads of laundry at one time if possible.
• and much more!

To obtain a copy of the Homeowner Septic System Guide and Record Folder, Contact Dr. Andrew Lazur, Water Quality Specialist at 301-789-5256 or by email lazur@umd.edu