Celebrate SepticSmart Week by identifying harmful products before they go down the drain and performing routine maintenance on your septic system
DES MOINES – The fall season offers the perfect opportunity for Iowans who rely on septic systems to safeguard their wallets, their properties, and local waterways by taking a few proactive steps.
In support of the EPA’s nationwide SepticSmart Week (Sept. 14–18), the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is reminding homeowners that proactive maintenance pays off. Septic system breakdowns almost always stem from simple neglect - and fixing a failed system is notoriously expensive. Regular checkups and minor upkeep can head off those costly emergency repairs down the road.
Protecting your system starts right at the drain. By making a few quick adjustments to what gets flushed or washed away, homeowners can shield local water quality, protect their family’s health, and avoid unnecessary financial stress.
“What goes down the drain directly impacts the health of your septic system, so it’s critical to pause and think before pouring anything out," says Cory Frank, On-site Wastewater Coordinator for the Iowa DNR. “Common household items such as dishwasher pods and chemical drain cleaners, certain types of toilet paper, or even excessive water use can wreak havoc on system performance and impact groundwater supplies, turning routine household habits potentially into thousands of dollars in repairs. Everyone can do their part to protect our natural resources and environment, including maintaining and monitoring their private septic system."
The EPA offers a few simple tips to keep your system performing optimally:
- Protect it and Inspect it: Service your system every one to three years to ensure it remains in good working order, and save money.
- Think at the Sink: What goes down your drain has a direct impact on your septic system. Avoid pouring fats, solids, and harsh chemicals down the drain.
- Don’t Overload the Commode: Only flush toilet paper. Avoid flushing tissues, wipes, paper towels, pet litter, or any other trash.
- Don’t Strain Your Drain: Use water efficiently. Stagger activities that require a lot of water, such as washing clothes and dishes.
- Shield your Field: Keep septic fields clear by avoiding parking or planting trees in those areas.
- Pump your Tank: Have your system pumped every 3-5 years to prevent buildup from causing a backup.
- Keep It Clean: Test your private well water annually. Malfunctioning septic systems are a leading cause of well contamination.
For additional details on system operation, routine maintenance, and local water quality, visit iowadnr.gov/septic or check out the official SepticSmart website.
To learn more about recognizing products that could harm your septic system, check out SepticSmartWeek on the Iowa DNR Youtube channel
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