Septic

Septic Tank Do's and Don'ts

Septic tanks filter through the soil and eventually effect the water table and Dudley Pond. By being conscious of what we place in our septic systems, we can help keep the Pond clean and healthy.

	Do pump evey two to three years depending on use
	Do have system inspected at time of pumping
	Do keep sump pumps, runoff, etc. off leaching area
	Do use biodegradeable detergents & cleaners
	Do avoid phosphates
	Do use single ply non tinted tissue
	Do space water use throughout the day
	Do conserve water and install low flow devices

	Do NOT use Septic Tank Cleaners
	Do NOT put coffee grounds, oils, grease, or chemicals down the drain
	Do NOT put eggshells down the drain
	Do NOT put hair, plastic, sanitary products, or cigarettes down the toliet
	Do NOT use garbage grinder (Use compost or trash) or pump yearly
	Do NOT plant trees or shrubs over leaching area
	Do Not drive heavy equipment (including cars) over leaching area

Hazardous Product	Alternatives: Try This Instead
Silver Products	Soak in Boiling water, baking soda, salt and a piece of aluminum
Oven Cleaners	Baking soda and water
Toilet Cleaners	Toilet brush and baking soda; mild detergent
Disinfectants	1/2 cup borax in 1 gallon of water
Drain Cleaners	Plunger; flush with boiling water, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 2 oz. vinegar
Rug and Uphoistery Cleaners	Dry cornstarch sprinkled on rug - vacuumed up
Floor and Furniture Polish	1 part lemon juice, 2 parts olive or vegetable oil
Bleach Cleaners	For laundry, 1/2 cup sodium hexametaphosphate per 5 gallons of water
Mothballs	Cedar chips, newpapers, lavendar flowers
Pool Chemicals	Ozone or ultra violet light systems
Amonia-based cleaners	Vinegar, salt and water mix for surfaces. Baking soda and water for the bathroom
Abrasive Cleaners or Powders	Rub area with 1/2 lemon dipped in borax - rinse dry

Source: League of Women Voters of Wayland, Natural Resources Committee

Septic Tank Do's and Don'ts

Hazardous Product

Alternatives: Try This Instead