Do This, Don't Do That!

Pump Regularly!

Regular septic tank pumping is a must. If the buildup of solids, sludge, in the tank becomes too high, solids move to the drainfield and can clog and strain the system to the point where a new drain-field will be needed. DEC recommends pumping every 2 years. If you have a garbage disposal, hot tub, or whirlpool you should increase the pumping frequency to once a year.

 

Don’t add chemical or biological additives to your septic tank.

Because of the cold soil temperatures typically found in Alaska, adding performance enhancing additives like yeast, bacteria or chemicals to your septic tank is of little value. In fact, in some cases, these additives can be harmful to your system or the environment. Because of this, DEC recommends NOT using additives and instead have your septic tank pumped every 2 years.

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Don’t flush household wastes such as.

Coffee Grounds, Kitty Litter, Cigarette Butts, Disposable Diapers, Fat, Grease or Oil, Paper Towels, Feminine Hygiene Products.

Don’t flush hazardous chemicals, such as: Paints, Paint Thinners, Medications, Pesticides, Varnishes, Waste Oils