Homeowners can help prevent malfunctions and ensure the long-term use of their on-lot system by doing the following:
- Conserving water and reducing wasteflow into the septic tank.
- Having the septic tank pumped at least every 2 years, depending upon tank size and household size.
- Avoiding putting chemicals in the septic system.
- Not using the toilet to dispose of bulky, slowly decomposing wastes.
- Inspecting the septic tank, pipes, and drainage field annually.
- Maintaining accurate records of the septic system (design, installation, location, inspections, pumpings, malfunctions, repairs)
- Preventing run-off from downspouts, sump pumps, and paved surfaces from getting into the septic system.
- Keeping heavy vehicles, equipment, and livestock away from the septic system.
- Not planting trees and shrubs over or close to the septic system.
Many of the management functions necessary to ensure long-term successful operation of on-lot sewage disposal systems are performed by three separate levels of government: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection), Bucks County (Bucks County Health Department), Nockamixon Township; and the system owner/user.
