If you are like most homeowners, you probably never give much thought to what happens to what goes down your drain. However, if you rely on a private sewage disposal system (PSDS), what you don’t know can hurt you. Proper operation and maintenance of your system can have a significant impact on how well it works and how long it lasts.

Homeowner tips:

• Pump septic tank every 3-5 years
• Conserve water by using low flow fixtures
• Repair any leaking fixtures
• Divert water away from the area of the septic system
• Only put biodegradable products into the system
• Do not use septic tank additives- they are not necessary and can possibly harm your system
• Spread out high flow events such as laundry
• Do not drive over the septic system.

The resources found in our Homeowners Tool Box, can help you learn more about these homeowner tips and your responsibility as a homeowner for maintaining your private sewage disposal system.

Homeowners Tool Box

Download Documents:

• Be Septic Smart
• Homeowner Septic System Checklist
• Homeowners Guide to Care and Maintenance of PSDS
• Iowa Department of Natural Resources Residential On-Site Wastewater Treatment Overview