Simply Septic (PDF): A Guide for Delaware Homeowners About On-Site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems courtesy of DNREC.

A properly functioning tank is always full. A typical septic tank has a capacity of 1000 gallons and, if working properly, will always be full. The idea behind the septic tank is that as one gallon enters the tank from the house, one gallon leaves the tank and goes to a drain field. The 1000 gallon tank allows fats, oils and grease to float and solids to settle. A good time to pump your tank is when either of those levels exceeds 6-8 inches. The average household will accumulate these levels in 2-3 years.

Pools of wastewater around your septic tank, sewage smells around your system or house, and water flow backups when you flush the toilet or do laundry are all signs your septic system is in need of help.

We recommend pumping your system every 2-3 years. Avoid putting non-biodegradables, (i.e. diapers, feminine products, etc.) in your toilet. Be watchful of water usage. In the kitchen be sure to drain the grease from your frying pan into a jar before washing the pan. Fats, oils, and grease can cause a clog in the septic line.

Grass and small plants are fine, but we recommend not planting trees within 10 feet of your septic tank or drainage field.

Yes, per DNREC, your technician must hold a Class F Liquid Waste Hauler’s license.

Every two-three years.

You have what we call “an engineered system.” That means there is a pump in a separate tank that doses water to the drain field. The alarm means the water in that dosing tank is above the proper operating level. Most likely, the pump is not operating for some reason which may be electrical (so check your breaker and/or connections at the alarm). If not, please call our office and we will send someone to assist you in locating the problem.