Common in rural areas without public sewer service, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry. However, this time-tested proven technology needs to be maintained properly to help save you money, protect your property value, and to keep you and your neighbors healthy.
Saves Money, Property Value and Health
Maintaining your septic system ultimately will save you money in the end. Based on how many people use a system, and the system’s size, will help to determine the maintenance service schedule. An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value, and potentially can pose a costly legal liability. An unmaintained or damaged septic system will not treat household wastewater that can contain disease causing bacteria, viruses and high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which can lead to contamination of your water well, contamination of your community’s groundwater, as well as risking contamination of nearby surface waters.
Between septic system service maintenance, remember:
- Think at the Sink – What goes down the pipes impacts your septic system
- Don’t Strain Your Drain – Use water efficiently and don’t overflow your septic system’s capacity
- Keep it Clean – Maintain your septic system to protect your well water
- Shield your Field – Roots, vehicles and livestock can damage your septic drain field
- Protect it and Inspect it – Regular septic maintenance can save thousands of dollars
- Don’t Overload the Commode – Don’t use your toilet as a trash can, as disposable diapers, wipes and hygiene products can damage septic systems
EMD protects public health and the environment by issuing permits and conducting inspections to ensure the proper installation, repair, and modification of septic systems in unincorporated Sacramento County and all incorporated cities within Sacramento County.