Homeowners Guide to Onsite Sewage Systems

8/14/2019 Homeowners Guide to Onsite Sewage Systems

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Property Information

Site Address:

Tax Parcel Number:

Type of System:

System Designer:

System Installer:

Date Installed:


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Table of Contents

Introduction 5

What is an Onsite Sewage System? 6

How does it all work?

The Septic Tank 7Gravity Drain elds 8

Pressure Distribution Drain elds 9

Sand Based Media Treatment 10

Aerobic Treatment Units 11

Drip Irrigation 12

Other Technologies 13

How do I maintain my Onsite Sewage System? 14

Operation & Maintenance 15

Protecting your Onsite Sewage System 16

Accessibility & Landscaping 17

Additives and your Onsite Sewage System 18

Onsite Sewage System Dos 20

Onsite Sewage System Donts 21

What can make an Onsite Sewage System Fail? 22

Warning Signs of a failing Onsite Sewage System 24

Tips for repairing an Onsite Sewage System 25

Other Onsite Sewage System Resources 26

Onsite Sewage System Service Records 27


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Developed by

Kitsap County Health District

Contributions include excerpts from:

A Homeowners Guide to Septic Systems published by the

United States Environmental Protection Agency

Funded in part by

Copyright Kitsap County Health District - All rights reserved

4

SSWMKITSAP COUNTY

Surface and Storm Water Managment


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The intent of this booklet is to provide homeownerswith basic information pertaining to onsite sewagesystems; what they are, how they work, and how totake proper care of them.

If after reading through this bookletyou have questions or want moredetailed information, please contact theKitsap County Health District (KCHD) at(360) 337-5285, send us a note or comeby and see us at 345 6th Street, Suite300, Bremerton, Washington, 98337.

Protect your property investment, protect the environment,

take good care of your onsitesewage system!

Introduction

Striving to MakeKitsap County

the Healthiest Place on thePlanet to Live , Work & Play .

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An onsite sewage system (OSS) is also known as a septicsystem. OSS are designed to help prevent the spread of illnessand disease by collecting, treating and dispersing of wastewa-ter from a home or business into the native soils near a home or business.

An OSS is typically made up of two or more components, or pieces, linked together with pipes. There are two general types of OSS available for use in Washington State; the unique site condi-tions for each individual lot (e.g., soil type and depth, size of lot,distance to surface waters and wells, etc.) determine which typeof OSS can be installed. Different combinations of componentsmay be used to best suit site conditions and owner preferences.

General Types of OSS

Standard Gravity OSS This is the most common type of system, and it generally has twomain parts identi ed as the Septic Tank & Drain eld (see page 8)

Sometimes a pump tank is also used in a standard system totransport the ef uent to a drain eld above the septic tank.

Standard systems are are required to be inspected at least onceevery 3 years.

Alternative OSS This type of system is required by state law where soil depth and/or other site conditions do not allow a standard gravity system tobe used. In Kitsap County, alternative OSS are required to haveannual operation & maintenance (O&M) (see page 15), and beinspected at least once per year.

Pages 8-13 refer to some of the most common types of alternative systems.

What is anOnsite Sewage System

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Main Access Lid

Riser to Surface

Scum Layer

Sludge Layer

1st CompartmentClear Zone

2nd CompartmentClear Zone

Center

Wall

Allliquid wastefrom home

To nextComponent

Ef uentFilter

OutletBaf e

InletBaf e

How does it all work?:: The Septic Tank ::

Typically the septic tank is a large, buried, rectangular or cylindrical container made of concrete, berglass, or polyethylene. Standard sizes range from 1,000 to 1,500 gallons.

In Washington State, septic tanks are required to have twocompartments, with access lids to each compartment for servicingand pumping.

For most types of OSS, the septic tank is the core component.All of the wastewater from a home or business is routed to theseptic tank for primary treatment. Primary treatment is a ltering

process whereby heavy solids are allowed to settle-out, andoating solids are trapped, due to baf es situated at theentrance and exit to each compartment of the septic tank.

The result is clari ed ef uent that is more easily absorbed bynative soils in the drain eld area. Adequate primary treatment isessential to protect drain elds and allow them to function properly.


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100% ReserveDrain eld Area

Septic Tank

Clean-out(outside home)

All liquid wastefrom home

Access Riser Ef uent Filter Access

Distribution-boxMonitoring Port

Gravel-LessDrain eld

How does it all work?:: Gravity Drainfelds ::

Gravity Drain elds are an onsite sewage system component madeup of a network of pipes and/or other materials placed in trenchesto distribute ef uent into the soil. All OSS have some type of soil

Provides nal treatment and dispersalof ef uent in conjunction with nativesoils.Relies on unsaturated and uncom-pacted soils to function properly.Trenches are installed level and runparallel to the natural contours of the land.Uses equal or serial distribution toload ef uent into the soil.Should have a designated backupreplacement area for future use.

Gravity Distribution

dispersal component.

The size and type of thedrain eld depends uponthe estimated dailywastewater quantity andsoil type.

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Pressure Distribution Systems consist of a septic tank, pump tankand drain eld. The pump tank contains a pump, pump control

oats and a high water alarm oat. Pressure distribution systemsrely on a pump to distribute ef uent evenly through pressurized

How does it all work?:: Pressure Distribution Drainfelds ::


Septic Tank



Access Risers

Monitoring Port

Pump Tank

Pressure Line

Clean-out

Control Valve

Time dosed ef uent distribution tothe entire drain eld area.Provides a higher level of treatment

to ef uent as compared to astandard gravity OSS.Protects the drain eld from beingoverused (high water use) as aresult of the time dosing of thedrain eld.Requires an annual Operation &Maintenance contract whichincludes at least one inspectionof the onsite sewage system.

Pressure Distribution

Gravel-LessDrain eld 9

lines rather than justgravity, so theef uent is dispersedover the entiredrain eld each timethe pump runs.


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Sand Based Media Treatment Systems consist of a septic tank,pump tank, sand lter and drain eld (or sand-lined trenches).Sand lter OSS use pressure distribution technology through

How does it all work?:: Sand Based Media Treatment ::


Septic Tank


Access Risers

MonitoringPort

Gravel-Less

Drain eld

Pump Tank

Pressure Line

Clean-out

Sand Filter

Control Valves


Clean-out

Sand Based Treatment

special sand to achieve a

very high level of ef uent treatment beforeef uent is distributed tothe drain eld for additional treatment and

nal dispersal.Typically used where site conditionsrequire a higher level of ef uenttreatment to protect wells, surfacewater or shallow ground waters.Pre-treats the ef uent with air prior to release to the drain eld.Can be constructed above or belowthe ground.Requires an annual Operation &Maintenance contract which includesat least one inspection of the OSS.

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Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) Systems also relies onpre-treatment to clean ef uent before it is sent to the drain eld.

An ATU OSS consists of an ATU component (there are many

kinds) instead of, or in addition to, a septic tank and a drain eld.

How does it all work?:: Aerobic Treatment Units ::


Aerobic Treatment Units



Access Risers

MonitoringPort

Gravel-LessDrain eld

Distribution-box

Aerobic TreatmentUnit (ATU)

Septic Tank

Typically used where site conditionsrequire a higher level of ef uenttreatment to protect wells, surfacewater or shallow ground waters.Uses Air to speed up the normalwaste water treatment process.May utilize any type of drain eldsystem (equal, serial or pressuredistribution, or drip).Requires an annual Operation &

Maintenance contract which includesat least one inspection of the OSS.

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For onsite sewagesystems approvedafter July 1, 2007 it willbe common to have apressure distribution

or drip irrigation drain-eld following the ATUcomponent.


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Drip Irrigation Dispersal Systems utilize a series of pressurizeddrip lines (much like the ones used for plant irrigation) located justbelow the surface of the ground. Like some of the other alterna-tive OSS, drip irrigation uses pre-treatment, time dosing, and

How does it all work?:: Drip Irrigation ::

Drip Irrigation

Best used with ATU or sand lter pre-treatment technologies.Can be used in shallow soils.Requires less area than

the typical drain eld.Can be routed around siteconstraints such as buildings,gardens, etc.Requires an annual Operation &Maintenance contract whichincludes at least one inspectionof the OSS.

pressure distributionto attain high levelsof ef uent treatment.

Drip irrigation is idealfor use in shallowsoils.


Drip Irrigation

Drain eld

ParticleFilter

Water Meter

Septic Tank

Pump Tank

Aerobic TreatmentUnit (ATU)

Access Risers

Drip Return Line



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There many new and emerging OSS technologies becomingavailable to help property owners mesh regulatory requirements,site conditions, and budgets.

A common other technology found in Kitsap County is theGlendon BioFilter System. It consists of a septic tank, pump

tank, and a container-ized drain eld system.This OSS treats theef uent before naldispersal in the surround-ing soil. Time dosingis utilized like pressuredistribution andsand lters.

How does it all work?:: Other Technologies ::

Glendon BioFilters

Provides high level of ef uent

treatment.Can be used in shallow soils.Requires an annual Operation &Maintenance contract whichincludes at least one inspection of the OSS.



Access Risers

Control Valves

Glendon BioFlter*

*Typical 1 Pod per bedroom


Septic Tank

Pump Tank

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Septic Tanks

Septic tanks need to beinspected at least every3 years and pumped asneeded to prevent solidsfrom damaging thedrain eld. Solids and Scumnot decomposed remain in the tank. If not removed they mayeventually over ow into the drain eld and damage it.

Additive products are not necessary and may harm the system.

Access to the tank is important for regular pumping &maintenance. For easy access a riser* is recommended and isrequired on some systems.

How do I maintain myOnsite sewage system?

Replacing your systemis very costly.

Extend the life of yourOnsite Sewage System!

Drainfelds

Route or direct surface and ground water away from thesystem to prevent ooding.

Limit use of chemicals and garbage disposals.

* A riser provides surface access to tanks buriedbelow the surface by providing access tothe tank as an extension of the opening.

Prevent physical damagefrom driving, parking, building,

burning, livestock pasturing andsprinkler systems.

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Alternative OSS require an Operation & Maintenance (O&M)contract which includes at least one inspection of the OSS per year by a certi ed maintenance service provider.

What is the Operation & Maintenance Program About?

This program is a state and locally mandated program created tokeep your OSS working properly and surrounding environmenthealthy. This new regulation will bene t OSS owners by:

Protecting your property investment from premature

failure. Your OSS is a critical part of your home.Saving you money: replacing a failed OSS cancost tens of thousands of dollars.Protecting your family, environment and communityfrom raw sewage spills.Providing you assurance: much like a yearly healthcheck-up or car maintenance, both essential to our

everyday needs.

Operation & Maintenance:: Alternative Onsite Sewage Systems ::

The O&M contract andinspection program

promotes regularmaintenance of your OSSand provides educational

opportunities.

Ef uentlters

must becleaned

annually at aminimum to

prevent costlyand unhealthy

backups intothe home.

Ef ent lters maybe found on both

standard gravity andalternative onsite

sewage systems. 15


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Watch what goes down the drain.Keep grease, hair, and food scraps from going down the drain.Dont ush diapers, plastics, paper towels, cigarettes,personal hygiene products or kitty litter down the toilet.

Dont use a garbage disposal. Dont use automatic toilet bowl cleaner or deodorizers.Dont use excessive strong drain cleaners (e.g., Draino)or other chemicals.

Use concentrated liquid detergents.Do not overuse detergents.Minimize use of liquid fabric softeners or use dryer sheets instead.Fillers in some powdered detergents can clog pipes.

Dont drown the drainfeld.Fix leaky xtures and toilets.Conserve water.Spread out laundry throughout the week -try to do no more than two loads in one day.Divert surface waters and downspouts away from the drain eld.

Know where you stand.Find out where the on-site sewage system is located so thatyou can avoid driving, digging, or parking on it.Request your as-built (OSS records) from KCHD.

Clean Out Access.Located between the house and tank (capped pipe).It is available for unblocking a clogged line.

Dont poison the system.Never pour products labeled danger or poison downthe drain. Take unwanted hazardous products to the ModerateRisk Waste Facility (360) 337-5777.Minimize use of strong chemicals like bleach and drain cleaners.

Protecting YourOnsite Sewage System

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Accessibility & Landscaping

Easy Access to OSS Components

Know its location.

Retro t older systems withrisers for easier access.Use moveable markers (suchas: planters, benches,sculptures) to cover systemports that need regular inspection.

Keep your as-built handy(a copy of the as-built isavailable at the Health District).

Landscaping your OSS

Planting is recommended tohelp with oxygenation &evaporation.Consider drought resistantplants.Choose plants that are

non-invasive and are notdeep rooting.Grasses are recommended.Consult your local nursery,landscaping professional or the Washington StateCooperative Extension

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Do I need to put additives in my septic system to keep it working properly?

The Kitsap County Health District and mostengineers/sanitation professionals, believe thatcommercial septic system additives are noteffective (even potentially harmful) to an onsitesewage system.

The reasons for this include:

No known additives can reduce solidssuf ciently to make pumping unnecessary.Household wastewater contains an abundantsupply of microorganisms that provide for theproper functioning of your system.Some additives cause problems withthe drain eld.

* Product approval by the Washington Department of Healthmerely indicates that the ingredients are unlikely to cause harmto public health or water quality. It does not however, substantiatethe performance claimed by additive manufacturers.

If you are currently using an additive andwould like more information about approved

additives*, please contact KCHD.

Additives and your

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Onsite Sewage SystemD o n t b e f o o l e d !

Additives are costlyand unnecessary.

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Onsite Sewage Systems D o s

Know where your OSS is located and protect it:

Have a copy of your as-built or map location of all septicparts (request a copy from the Health District).

Pass along all records & information to newowners or tenant of property.Save funds to cover futuremaintenance or repair costs.Educate your family,guests or renters.

Inspect your OSS yearly:

Keep accurate detailed records of any repairs & pumping.

Use water wisely:

Conserve water use low ow xtures, spreadlaundry throughout the week, limit shower length,

x any leaks promptly.Direct runoff from roofs, streets, driveways & adjoiningproperties away from sewage system area.Keep any irrigation (sprinkler) system at least 10 feetfrom the edge of the on-site sewage system.Drain water from hot tubs & water softeners awayfrom drain eld, storm drains & surface waters.

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D o n t s

Onsite Sewage Systems

You are the keyto water quality.

Compact soils of drain eld or reserve area in any way by:

Driving/parking vehicles or heavy equipment(including boats) in the OSS area.

Disturb the drain eld or reserve area by:

Building, burning or grazing livestock in the area.Covering it with landscaping materials other than grass.Driving across the sewage system, grading, leveling,

lling or cutting the area.Installing a sprinkler system or planting deep-rootedwater-loving plants over the drain eld.

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Overload the system by:

Using too much water.Using a garbage disposal.Using tank additives or miracle septic system cleaners.Discarding medications down the drain.Allowing backwash from water softeners or conditioners.Pouring strong household cleaning products down the drain.


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What can make anOnsite Sewage System Fail?

If the amount of wastewater entering your onsite sewage systemis more than the system can handle, the wastewater may back upinto the house or yard and create a health hazard.

You can suspect a system failure not only when a foul odor isemitted but also when partially treated wastewater ows up to theground surface, however, by the time you can see a gray/blacksubstance or smell sewage odors the damage might already bedone.

Limiting your water use, will reduce the amount of wastewater your onsite sewage system must treat. When you have your system inspected and pumped, as needed, you reduce thelikelihood of system failure.

A system installed in unsuitable soils can also fail. Other failurerisks include tanks that are inaccessible for maintenance,drain elds that are paved or parked upon and tree roots or defective components that interfere with the treatment process.

Toxics:

Household toxics can lead to thepremature failure of your onsite sewagesystem. Does someone use the utilitysink to clean out paint rollers or ush toxiccleaners? Oil-based paints, solvents andlarge volumes of toxic cleaners shouldnot enter your septic system. Remem-ber that your septic system containsliving organisms that digest andtreat waste.

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What can make anOnsite Sewage System Fail?

Cleaning Products:

For the most part, your onsite sewage systems bacteria shouldrecover quickly after small amounts of household cleaningproducts have been introduced to the waste stream. Of course,some cleaning products are less toxic to your onsite sewagesystem than others.

Hot Tubs/Swimming Pools:

Hot tubs are a great way to relax, unfortunately your onsitesewage system was not designed to handle large quantities of water from your hot tub. Emptying large amounts of water intoyour onsite sewage system stirs the solids in the tank and pushesthem out into the drain eld, causing it to clog and fail. Drainingyour hot tub into your onsite sewage system or over the drain eldarea can overload the system and cause it to fail.

Garbage Disposals:

Eliminating or reducing the use of a garbage disposal can reducethe amount of grease and solids entering the onsite sewagesystem which can possibly clog the drain eld. A garbagedisposal grinds up kitchen scraps, suspends them in water, andsends the mixture to the septic tank. Once in the septic tank,

some of the materials are broken down bybacterial action, but most of the grindings have

to be pumped out of the tank. Using agarbage disposal frequently can

signi cantly increase the accumulation of sludge and scum in your tank result-

ing in the need for morefrequent pumping.

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Sewage on the surface of the ground or

discharging into surface waters.

A foul smelling, slimy, blackish/greyishliquid in the drain eld area or out of down-slope pipes or banks.

Standing/ owing water or soggy soils in drain eld area.

Greywater (laundry or sink water)discharge to the ground or surface waters.

Sewage back-up into residence caused byslow soil absorption.

Warning signs of a failingOnsite Sewage System

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Repairs require Health District reviewor permit.

Consult a repair professional to properlydiagnose system failure.

Dont assume that a total sewage systemreplacement is needed.

A certi ed OSS designer, installer or

operation and maintenance contractor istrained to diagnose the problem thatcaused the failure.

Pumping a failing system is only atemporary solution.

While it may be necessary to have thetank pumped during the repair process,pumping the tank alone will not correcta failing OSS.

Stay in contact with the Health District.

Technical assistance is availableto help you determine thebest solution(s) for your situation.

Tips for repairing anOnsite Sewage System

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Other OSS Resources

Kitsap County Health DistrictEnvironmental Health Division

345 6th Street, Suite #300Bremerton, WA 98337-1866

(360) 337 5285

www.kitsapcountyhealth.com

Kitsap County Health District Refer to Environmental Health

menu and click on

Onsite Sewage or Water Quality

www.dol.wa.govWA State Department of Licensing

To nd out if your designer/engineer isauthorized to provide design services.

www.wsg.washington.eduWashington Sea Grant Program

(360) 427-9670 x 437,(360) 275-4467 x 437 Click on Septic Sense

for information regarding onsite sewage systems.

www.doh.wa.govWA State Department of Health

Search for Wastewater

W e b s i t e s

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OSS Service Records

Date: Contractor Name/Work Done:

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Homeowners Guide to Onsite Sewage Systems

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