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Be SepticSmart.
 

Keeping Your Septic Safe

If properly designed, constructed, and maintained, your septic system can provide long-term, effective treatment of wastewater. If your septic system isn’t properly maintained, you may need to replace it, potentially costing you thousands of dollars.

Much of what you can do to keep your septic safe is making maintenance part of your regular routine.

Every 2-4 years your septic should be pumped (based on use). Once every ten years, or before buying or selling a property, we recommend a certified inspection. Certified Inspectors

Keep records of each of your maintenance steps, as well as any repairs you make along the way.

On a more regular basis, reduce the amount of water flowing into your system, limit use of toxics, and protect the surface above the system.

Sometimes, though, your system may need more attention. When making repairs, ensure that you acquire the proper permits and receive final approval once the work has been completed.

General OWS Resources

Well-Related OWS

Case Study: OWS Maintenance

 

See more Maintenance Do's & Don'ts

 
 

Maintenance Do's & Don'ts

 
 

Do have your system pumped regularly (every 2-4 years depending on use).

 
 

Don’t plant anything over or near the drain field, except native grasses.

 
 

See All Do's & Don'ts

 

An ounce of prevention ...

Can save you money ...

Regular preventative maintenance, such as pumping, inspecting, and making minor repairs, help to extend the lifespan of a system. Neglecting a system can cause it to fail, causing an immediate threat to your health, your family, and our water, often costing significantly more than regular maintenance costs.

 Glossary | Return to Home 

Water Quality Program, Environmental Health Division
Boulder County Public Health (BCPH)
3450 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304
(303) 441-1564
www.BoulderCountyWater.org

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