Both the septic tank and the drainfield must be properly maintained. With conscientious maintenance, the system should work correctly for many years. Such maintenance begins with water use and waste disposal habits. Since your family will determine which materials enter the system, you should establish rules for proper use and maintenance. The suggestions outlined in the box will save you anguish and money when applied to most conventional systems.
More sophisticated systems require additional maintenance, possibly at much greater cost.
Also, recent rule changes now require owners of some alternative septic systems and community septic systems to hire a certified operator to maintain their systems. For more information about these requirements, contact your local health department. Restrict the use of your garbage disposal. Do not pour grease or cooking oils down the sink drain. Make a diagram showing the location of your tank drainfield and repair area.