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Required BMPs <br /> Owners of septic systems must follow all of the requirements of the Snohomish County Department <br /> of Public Health and Social Services, Environmental Health Division. <br /> Suggested BMPs <br /> • Regular Inspection and Maintenance <br /> Septic tanks require regular inspection and maintenance. Inspections should be done to <br /> measure accumulated sludge every 3 to 5 years. Pumping frequency can vary depending on <br /> tank size, family size and garbage disposal use. Failure to remove sludge periodically will <br /> result in reduced settling capacity and eventual overloading of the disposal field, which can <br /> be difficult and expensive to remedy. Maintenance is required on complex systems, those <br /> serving more than one single family residence,and commercial establishments. <br /> • Eliminate or Restrict Garbage Disposal Use <br /> Eliminating or restricting garbage disposals can significantly reduce the loading of solids to <br /> the septic tank thus reducing the pumping frequency. <br /> • Reduce and Spread Water Use Out Over the Day <br /> Septic tanks are limited in their ability to handle rapid large increases in the amount of water <br /> discharged into them. Excess wastewater flow can cause turbulence in the tank flushing <br /> accumulated solids into the disposal field. Over time this will impair the ability of the <br /> disposal field to function. Limit water using appliances to one at a time. Do one load of <br /> clothes a day rather than several in one day. Practice water conservation at home. <br /> • Chemical Use <br /> Septic systems are to be used for the disposal of household wastewater only. Never dispose <br /> of excess or unwanted chemicals into the septic system. Occasional use of household <br /> cleaners in accordance with the manufacturers'recommendations should not harm your septic <br /> system. There is little evidence that products advertised for use as septic system cleaners and <br /> substitutes for pumping actually work as advertised. <br /> For additional information on proper operation of your septic system or to report a failing <br /> septic system in your neighborhood, contact Snohomish County Environmental Health. <br /> 23 <br />