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Septic System Maintenance FAQs

pump

How do I get information about my septic system?

For information about your on-site septic system and/or the number of bedrooms a property is permitted for, or to get copies of your septic design plan, septic as-built or septic inspections, homeowners may call 508-539-1426.  If you are not the homeowner, please email spacheco@mashpeema.gov.

What is the best way to prolong the life of my septic system?

Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure your septic system works well.  Regular pumping helps prevent solids from escaping into the leaching area and clogging soil pores. While pumping frequency is a function of use, MA DEP recommends that systems be pumped at least once every 3 years for homes not having a garbage disposal.  Any home with a garbage disposal and homes serviced by an Innovative/Altnerative septic system with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more often, generally once a year.

When hiring a pumper, be sure they have been permitted by the Board of Health, and be sure to get a paid receipt that spells out the details of the transaction (how many gallons were pumped out of the tank, the date, the charges, and any other pertinent results).  Retain this receipt for your records.

The following is a list of Septic System Do’s & Don’ts:

Do.......

  • Have the system inspected and pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on use. 
  • Know the location of the septic system and drain field, and keep a record of all inspections, pumpings, repairs, contract or engineering work for future references.  Keep an as-built sketch handy for service visits.
  • Grow grass or small plants (not trees or shrubs) above the septic system to hold the drain field in place.  Water conservation through creative landscaping is a great way to control excess runoff.
  • Install water-conserving devices in faucets, showerheads and toilets to reduce the volume of water running into the septic system.  Repair dripping faucets and leaking toilets, run washing machines and dishwashers only when full, and avoid long showers.
  • Divert roof drains and surface water from driveways and hillsides away from the septic system.  Keep sump pumps and house footing drains away from the system as well.
  • Take leftover hazardous chemicals to your approved hazardous waste collection center for disposal.  Use bleach, disinfectants, and drain and toilet bowl cleaners sparingly and in accordance with product labels.
  • Use only septic system additives that are allowed for use in Massachusetts by MA DEP.  Additives that are allowed for use in Massachusetts have been determined not to produce a harmful effect to the individual system or its components or to the environment at large.

Don’t.......

  • Use your toilet or sink as a trash can by dumping non-biodegradables (cigarette butts, diapers, feminine products, etc.) or grease down your sink or toilet.  Store cooking fats, oils and grease in a can for disposal in the garbage.  Non-biodegradables can clog the pipes, while grease can thicken and clog the pipes.
  • Put paint thinner, polyurethane, anti-freeze, pesticides, some dyes, disinfectants, water softeners, and other strong chemicals into the system.  These can cause major upsets in the septic tank by killing the biological part of your septic system and polluting the groundwater.  Small amounts of standard household cleaners, drain cleansers, detergents, etc. will be diluted in the tank and should not cause damage to the system.
  • Use a garbage grinder or disposal, which feeds into the septic tank.  If you do have one in the house, limit its use.  If you use a grinder, the system must be pumped more often.
  • Plant trees within 30 feet of your system, or park/drive over any part of the system.  Tree roots will clog your pipes, and heavy vehicles may cause your drainfield to collapse.
  • Allow anyone to repair or pump your system without first checking that they are a licensed system professionals.
  • Run excessive laundry loads with your washing machine.  Doing load after load does not allow your septic tank time to adequately treat wastes and overwhelms the entire system with excess wastewater.
  • Use chemical solvents to clean the plumbing or septic system. “Miracle” chemicals will kill microorganisms that consume harmful wastes.  These products can also cause groundwater contamination.

For more information about how to care for your septic system, please click the following link:  https://www.mass.gov/guides/caring-for-your-septic-system.