Maintenance

No matter what type of system you own, it requires routine maintenance to operate effectively and efficiently. The first way to maintain your system is to use it properly through water use efficiency, avoid using chemicals and not use your system as a trash can. 

Many systems will have risers over tank lids to increase the accessibility to system components for maintenance.  These risers can keep costs lower for inspections and pumping.  Risers are not required but are recommended.  If you do not have risers on your system, you can install them yourself or hire a professional.

Guidelines and suggestions regarding installing risers:

  1. They should be watertight.  Your system will be stressed and could fail if water leaks through the riser and into the tank.
  2. Risers must be 24” inch diameter for newer style septic tanks, older septic tanks may require other sizes of risers and lids.
  3. Risers and lids made of a durable, non-corrosive, UV-resistant material (typically PVC plastic or fiberglass).
  4. Risers and lids are structurally sound to withstand the anticipated site-specific load conditions.
  5. Should be gas tight preventing odors in your yard.
  6. Secured or lockable access on lids.
  7. Lids secured with stainless steel (or equivalent) screws and/or bolts with large diameter heads.  
  8. Access installed to finished grade.
  9. Polyethylene tanks may require special risers and lids, and the original septic tank lids must remain secured for structural reasons.

Thank you for looking into the best way to care for your system.  As you maintain your system, you will be protecting the natural environment, the health of your community and your "pocketbook."

Helpful Resources