Text Box: Do maintain a diagram of the location of all components of your septic system including… •Septic tank •Connection lines and pipes •Distribution boxes •Disposal field Please note... For newly constructed septic systems, this can be a copy of the design plans. For older existing systems, simply diagramming the location to septic system components, measured from a common point on the building, is sufficient. Do pump your septic tank. Solids are always accumulating in an operating septic tank. The rate of microbial decomposition is slower than the rate at which sewage is added. Don’t drive on, or park vehicles or trailers over the area of the disposal field. The weight of these units can cause physical damage such as, broken connecting pipes, distribution boxes, manifolds and laterals. Don’t plant trees or other vegetation with extensive or deep root systems. Tree roots are capable of exerting enough pressure to rupture or dislodge distribution boxes, connecting pipes, manifolds and laterals. Grass is the best vegetative cover for disposal fields. Text Box: Don’t pour any of the following into your home drains: •Paints •Varnishes •Paint thinners •Oil of any type •Anti-freeze •Pesticides •Photographic developing solutions •Wood finishing chemicals •Degreasing materials Don’t pour cooking oils, fats or grease into the kitchen sink. Don’t flush inert or non-biodegradable items down sinks or toilets. Don’t use excessive amounts of water if you want your septic system to continue to operate properly. Do avoid showering and bathing at times when dishwashers and laundry are in use. Do fix all leaking faucets and toilets. Do try to distribute dish washing and laundry throughout the week rather than all at once. Don’t discharge floor drains or sump pumps into septic systems. Don’t add a garbage grinder to a home with an existing septic system. Text Box: Don’t divert surface water runoff towards the disposal field. The increased volume of water infiltrating into the disposal field can result in hydraulic overloading and ultimately septic system malfunction. Don’t construct driveways, parking lots, accessory buildings, additions to the main building, decks or patios which intrude upon any component of the septic system. Text Box: 98 Market Street Salem, NJ 08079 Phone: Ext. 8448 Text Box: The Salem County Department of Health Text Box: For additional information on septic system design and inspection please contact: Text Box: Do’s and Don’ts for Good Management Practices Text Box: Septic System Maintenance