About Septic System

Why? Your septic system could be leaching contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, nitrates, phosphates, chlorides, and organic compounds such as trichloroethylene into the ground water and environment. These contaminants will end up in our creeks, streams and Lake Wylie.

Did you know that one-fourth of U.S. homes are using septic systems and that more than 4 billion gallons of wastewater per day are dispersed below the ground's surface?

Maintenance

What should I be doing if I have a septic system?
  • Inspect your septic system annually.
  • Pump out your septic system regularly. (Pumping out every three to five years is recommended for a three-bedroom house with a 1,000-gallon tank; smaller tanks should be pumped more often.
  • Do not divert storm drains or basement pumps into septic systems.
  • Reduce the use of your garbage disposal. (Garbage disposals contribute unnecessary solids to your septic system and can also increase the frequency your tank needs to be pumped.)
  • Don't use toilets as trash cans! Excess solids can clog your drain field and require more frequent pumping.

The EPA has created the Septic Smart program to help educate individua's who operate off of a septic system. Check out the great resources below!

Septic Smart Rack Brochure

Septic Smart Flyer

Septic Smart Infographic

Septic Smart Homeowner Guide

Septic Smart Landscaping

Home Buyers Septic Guide Brochure

Other resources provided by the EPA can be found at https://www.epa.gov/septic/septicsmart-education-materials

Check out these other great resources 

(Some links/contact information may not be accurate) 

Homeowner guide to septic systems_EPA

Homeowner guide to septic systems

After the flush 

Caring for septic system: Sea Grant

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