Helpful Facts
70 Percent of all Missouri Septic Tanks are not functioning properly resulting in over 100 million gallons of poorly treated sewage possibly entering our streams and lakes everyday.
Pumping out your Septic Tank can help stop algae from choking our beautiful rivers and lakes. By adopting the following Septic Tank Initiatives you can help preserve the Ozarks’ waterways.
Here are some helpful hints to keeping your septic tank functioning properly:
DO’S
Obtain necessary permits from the appropriate local agency before making repairs.
Use certified installers and plumpers when needed, especially if effluent is surfacing over the lateral lines.
Pump your septic tank every 2-5 years. An inspection now will let you know if your tank is ready to be pumped.
Keep the septic tank pump chamber cover accessible. Do be sure the cover is securely locked and no larger than 12 inches in diameter.
Keep detailed records of maintenance, repairs, inspections and permits.
DON’TS
Do not put grease, solvents, paints, kerosene, gasoline, motor oil, pesticides, chemical drain openers, septic tank additives or cooking fats into home drains or toilets.
Do not dig in, build over, or drive on your lateral field.
Do not plant any vegetation on your lateral field except grass.
Roots from other plants will clog the lateral lines.
Do not go into your septic tank chamber. Deadly gasses may build up inside the chamber.