"When drainfields become saturated with water, they can't efficiently drain the wastewater from the holding tank" said Barbara Wright, Manager of Wastewater at Public Health - Seattle & King County. "Poor drainage may mean slow fixture drainage, sewage back-up or even total system failure."
What to do during a major rain or flood:
- Eliminate all non-essential water use
- Reduce toilet flushing
- If your drainfield is covered with water, do not use the system until the water has receded
- Avoid contact with sewage if there is a sewage back-up. Contaminated water can cause disease
Call an OSS (on-site sewage) professional immediately if you notice any of these problems:
- Water on the drainfield that does not subside after the rain stops
- A bad odor/sewage smells
- Wastewater backs up into house
- Slow running drains, especially after laundry loads
- Sewage surfacing anywhere
Typical winter rains and even additional seasonal water use add extra stress to septic systems that may lead to premature system failure or costly repairs. A well-maintained septic system is better able to withstand the stresses of heavy rains or flooding.
Take advantage of these tips for optimal system functioning:
- Get the septic tank pumped every 3-5 years
- Hire an On-site System Maintainer to regularly monitor your OSS
- Reduce water use to minimize impact on drainfield
- Don't use a garbage disposal
- Don't use septic additives
- Use "eco-friendly" household cleaners
- Flush only toilet paper
- Run full loads of dishes and laundry and spread usage throughout the week
More information about OSS operation and maintenance may be found at: www.kingcounty.gov/health/wastewater
Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health – Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day. |
