Troubleshooting Common Problems - Mason County Public Health Septic System User Manual

Care and feeding of on-site sewage system
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Troubleshooting Common Problems

Problem
Slow Draining
Human contact with
Fixtures (sink,
sewage is a serio
tub, shower);
health threat.
Bacteria and viruses
Sewage Backing
in sewage could
Up in House
cause serious illness.
AVOID CONTACT.
Sewage Breaking
Human contact with
Out on Ground
sewage is a serious
health threat.
Bacteria and viruses
in sewage could
cause serious illness.
AVOID CONTACT.
Risks
Potential Causes
us
Consult
professionals
Place barrier
around area until
problem is fixed
Place sand or
bark dust over
breakout to
minimize
potential contact
Excess water use in
house
Groundwater infiltrating
into tanks
Improper plumbing
Blocked pipe
Pump failure
Roots clogging pipes
Tank's outlet filter
plugging up
Tank baffles broken or
plugged
Excess water use in
house
Groundwater infiltrating
into tanks
High waste strength
Broken or blocked pipes
Pump failure
Improper distribution
Undersized drainfield
- 28 -
Potential Solutions
Fix leaks
Install water saving fixtures
Drain ground and surface
water away from tanks
Find and fix leaking openings
Water-tight tanks if possible
Check plumbing
Clear pipes
Check pump operation by
running manually
Replace pump if necessary*
Avoid planting trees near
system components
Seal pipe connections*
Replace broken or cracked
pipes and remove roots*
Remove, clean and replace
filter
Stop using garbage disposal
Ensure baffles clear
Fix or replace baffles if
necessary
Pump tank if solids are
problem
Fix leaks
Limit high use activities
Install water saving fixtures
Drain ground and surface
water away from tanks
Find and fix leaking openings
Water-tight tanks if possible
Stop using garbage disposal
or placing excess grease, oil,
food, etc. in system
Use a sink strainer
Stop using harsh chemicals
in house
Check plumbing
Clear pipes
Locate and repair broken
pipes
Check pump operation by
running manually
Replace pump if necessary*
Adjust D-box or manifold for
equal distribution
Install new system

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