Do's and Don'ts....

A major component of being a septic owner is being smart. A properly installed and functioning septic system works to protect the public health, the environment, and recreational and ground waters. In addition, being informed about your septic system and practicing a few simple "Do's & Don'ts" can help and even help protect the property value. In Flower Mound, ongoing maintenance is required for all secondary treatment systems (see "The Types").

A. All Systems... Check!

-DO
* Have your system inspected on a regular frequency, secondary treatment systems require a minimum of 3 inspections per year and an ongoing maintenance contract.
* Have the system pumped/cleaned on a regular frequency, typically every 3-5 years
* Maintain detailed records of all repairs, maintenance, and service. This can be passed on to the next owner or occupant.

B. Sink Safe

-DON'T
* Pour grease or oil down the sink, drain, or toilet
* Rinse coffee grounds into the sink
* Discard household chemicals down the sink drain or in the toilet
-DO
* Eliminate or minimize the use of garbage disposals
* Properly dispose of coffee grounds and food items
* Put grease in a sealable container and allow to harden. Dispose of the grease container in the trash

C. Protect the Porcelain

-DON'T
* Don't flush non-degradeable products or chemicals such as feminine hygiene products, condoms, dental floss, diapers, cigarette butts, cat litter, paper towels, or pharmaceuticals in the toilets
-DO
* Properly dispose of all waste in the proper receptacles instead of the toilets or drains

D. Drainfield Shield

-DON'T
* Don't drive or park on the septic drainfield.
* Don't dig or build structures in or on the drainfield
* Don't plant trees or shrubs in close proximity to the drainfield as roots can grow into the system and cause problems and or failure
-DO
* Consult a licensed septic professional to discuss planting of trees and shrubs
* Consult a licensed septic professional to discuss home/yard improvement activities, including accessory buildings, pools, patios, or other structures.
* Contact a licensed maintenance provider if there are problems with your septic system.
* Divert downspouts and other surface water away from the drain field.

E. Insane in the Main Drain

-DON'T
* Don't use the shower, dishwasher, washing machine, and toilets at the same time as the concentrated amount of water can strain the septic system
-DO
* Stagger the use of water using home appliances to reduce the strain on the drains and system.
* Repair leaking faucets or toilets.