Missouri Extension Service
MARSHFIELD -- The proper care of a septic system is something Bob Schultheis, a natural resource engineering specialist with University of Missouri Extension, gets asked about frequently.
The proper care of a septic system is also something that can greatly impact water quality in the Ozarks.
Q: How can one tell if they are having problems with the septic tank system?
A: "Sinks will drain slowly, toilets won't flush right, sewage surfaces in the yard, drinking water from the well has bacterial contamination, family members get sick, things like that," said Schultheis.
Q: What causes septic systems to fail?
A: According to Schultheis, there are three main reasons. One, the absorption field (series of buried perforated pipes) is placed in unsuitable soils. More than 80 percent of soils in the Ozarks are unsuited for conventional absorption fields. Two, homeowners overload the system with too much water or things that should not be flushed, including so-called flushable wipes. Spring and fall rainy seasons are particularly a problem because restrictive clay soils get saturated. Three, trees are planted too close to the absorption field, or vehicles are driven over or parked on it.
Q: Television advertisements talk about the use of yeast, enzymes or other additives flushed down the toilet to make the septic tank work better? Do you recommend their use?
A: "No. Some additives are damaging to the soil or the groundwater beneath it. Others are unlikely to pollute groundwater but interfere with settling of solids in the septic tank. Additives that dissolve solids in the tank often just move them to the absorption field and plug it, forcing expensive repairs. We recommend instead to pump the tank on a regular basis," said Schultheis.
Q: How often should a septic tank be checked or pumped?
A: "Sludge and scum levels and effluent filter should be checked annually. Depending on the tank's size and number of people in the house, the tank usually needs pumping every two to five years. Using water conservation measures in the home will help reduce the likelihood of absorption field failure, especially during wet weather," said Schultheis.
Q: What is the "jar test" to see if toilet paper is suitable for the septic system?
A: Put two squares of toilet paper in a pint jar filled two-thirds full with water. Shake vigorously and observe. The quicker the toilet paper falls apart, the better it is for the septic system. The color of toilet paper is not upsetting to the septic tank.
Q: Where can I get more information on properly managing my septic tank/absorption field system?
A: Contact your county University of Missouri Extension Center and ask for MU Guide EQ401, go online to extension.missouri.edu, or telephone Schultheis at the Webster County Extension Center at 417-859-2044.
General News on 10/27/2016