Saturday, it’s better to do 1 to 2 loads per day. I know, easier said than done. Also, avoid powdered laundry detergents, as they contain non-biodegradable fillers that can plug your system. Also, environmentally friendly
cleaners should be used as often as pos- sible because harsh cleaners can affect the functionality of your septic system. Do not use drain cleaners as these can kill the bacteria in your system and dis- rupt the operation of your tank. Con- sider using biodegradable alternatives for routine cleaning around the house. Oxidized bleaches, borax, vinegar and baking soda are less hazardous than non-biodegradable cleaners. There are recipes all over the internet to make your own biodegradable cleaners right at home. Remember that any chemical you put into your system can enter the groundwater. It is recommended that the only
thing you grow over your septic system and leach field is grass. Trees and other deep-rooted vegetation can clog your system. Also, do not ever drive over your system, cover it with hard surfaces such as asphalt, or build anything over your system. Many people ask whether they need
to use a septic maintenance product. There is no formula to make a septic work better. Most specialists will say these products are anywhere from use- less to harmful to your system. All we need to do is pay attention to what goes into our septic systems and properly maintain them to protect our systems and our groundwater. Keep detailed records of all inspec- tions and maintenance to your septic
system. It is also helpful to keep a sketch of your system at home if you ever need to service your septic system. If you don’t have a sketch, you can call your local Health Department as they should have your system on file. Pumping your septic tank is the
single most important thing you can do to protect your septic system. If you do not pump your tank then the build-up of solids becomes too high and the sol- ids start to move to the drainage field. This can clog the entire system to the point of needing a new drainage field. If you ever have a question as to when you should pump your tank, set up an inspection. The National Environmental Services Center recommends you have your septic inspected yearly. Generally, I recommend that if you have not serviced your tank recently, you should have an inspection to determine whether the sys- tem is functioning properly and whether it needs to be cleaned. I know that yearly may be a bit ambitious in this economy, but a failed system is much harder on the wallet than a cleaning! A failing septic system decreases
your property value and it typically costs $5000 to $10,000 to replace. A pump- ing of a 1000 gallon tank is around $275 and can save you money while protect- ing the health of your family and com- munity.
Start small and service your septic.
If every individual commits to this we can affect big change.
Submitted by Jason LaChance of Small Town Septic. For more information call, 860-653-TAKE (8253). See ad on page 27 .
Open House at
Kyokushin Karate School
Saturday, June 19th
261 Albany Turnpike, RT. 44 Canton, CT
1-877-IKU-DOJO
Learn the benefits of Kyokushin Karate and what makes I.K.U. unique:
• Lose Weight & Increase Strength • Endurance, Stamina, Flexibility • Self Confidence, Stress Relief • Family owned & Operated • Full Contact
• Children and Adult Classes
www.IkuDojo.org
www.naturalnutmeg.com
June 2010
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