Homeowners Urged to Protect Septic Systems

Originally broadcast on Channel 5 KFYR (Bismark, ND) on May 16, 2011
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The Missouri River is on the rise, and while not much can be done to control the rising water, homeowners are urged to protect their septic systems.

If drains in the house run slowly or are backing up, pumping the septic tank will provide, at best, three or four days of reprieve, but the problem will return. Keep in mind that pumping will make the tank lighter, increasing the possibility that it could float out of saturated ground. Wait until the water recedes before pumping the tank.

The best solution is to plug all drains in the basement and drastically reduce water use in the house. Here are some ways to do that:



· Make sure there are no leaking fixtures in the house. Even a drop of water every 15 seconds can add up to a lot of additional water in the septic system.
· Don`t put water from a basement sump pump into the septic system.
· Don`t let water from roof gutters or the sump pump discharge into the drain field area.
· Reduce the number of times you flush the toilet.
· Reduce the number of showers and baths.
· Don`t use the dishwasher or garbage disposal.
· Don`t do laundry.
· Sandbag around the openings to the septic tank.

If your septic system is covered with water, do not use the system. Turn off water softeners and the system`s electric devices (pumps, alarms, etc.) If you are using water from a flooded well, it might be contaminated. Contact a well professional or your county about a water test.

After the flood is over, do not use your system until:

· The soil has adequately dried to allow sewage to be absorbed and not back-up. This may take several weeks.
· All tanks have been checked to see if they contain floodwater.
· The electrical system has been inspected. This includes electrical connections, pumps, alarms, etc.
· If your system has an advanced treatment device, you should check with your licensed service provider before operation.
· All tank maintenance hole openings must be immediately secured, repaired or replaced if the covers have been moved or lost in the flood.
· Any obvious damage has been repaired.

There are many hazards in working with septic systems (disease transmission, poisonous gasses, and electrical shock). It is strongly recommended that all septic system work be conducted by a licensed businesses or licensed electrician.

For more information on protecting your septic system before, during and after the flood, check out www.custerhealth.com.