Septic Systems 101
Did you know that one-quarter of all U.S. homes have septic systems? Yours may be one of them. Private septic systems are a cost-effective way to treat household wastewater.
However, if you’re not properly maintaining your septic system, you’re not only hurting the environment, you’re putting your family’s health at risk—and may be flushing thousands of dollars down the drain!
EPA’s has created the SepticSmart — a nation-wide public education effort that aims to inform homeowners living on properties serviced by septic systems on the importance of properly maintaining their septic system and provide valuable resources to help homeowners make important decisions regarding their wastewater management needs.
Much of the information in this Consumer Info section came from EPA’a SepticSmart website, Penn State Extension, and PA DEP’s webpages on Septic Systems. All are great resources for homeowners attempting learn more about the functioning of their onsite wastewater treatment system.
Understanding the Law
ACT 537 – AN OVERVIEW OF THE SEWAGE FACILITIES PROGRAM (Source: PA DEP) History of the Act 537 Program Domestic sewage and wastewater are treated and disposed of by various methods, ranging from large municipally-owned sewage treatment plants to community or...
What to Do After a Flood
Where can I find information on my septic system?Please contact your local health department for additional advice and assistance. For more information on onsite/decentralized wastewater systems, you can visit EPA’s Septic Systems Web site. Do I pump my tank during...
What is a Septic System?
Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that use a combination of nature and time-tested technology to treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and...
Proper Care of Your Septic System
Inspect and Pump Frequently The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. Alternative systems with electrical float switches,...
Fact Sheets Available from Penn State Extension
Fact Sheets available from Penn State Extension: On-lot Sewage Systems — The purpose of this fact sheet is to describe the parts and function of on-lot sewage systems and the regulatory system governing their use. Septic Tank Pumping — Septic tanks should be...
Common Causes of System Failures
Why Septic Systems FailMost septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables. These...