POWTS (Septics and Mounds)

POWTS: Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (Mounds and septics)

Prior to the evaluation of your POWTS make certain the manhole cover(s) are exposed.  If they are typically buried please make sure to have them dug up before we arrive.

If the manhole cover(s) are typically exposed, it is required they have a locking device (usually chains and lock) and approved warning label on them. Please make arrangements to have them unlocked at the time of the system evaluation.

The tank should be pumped WHILE we are there for the evaluation- NOT before our arrival.

 POWTS recommendations:

1.      Do NOT flush disposable wipes (i.e. baby wipes, personal wipes, dusting wipes, etc.) Although these products claim they are septic safe, they are NOT. They also claim they are flush-able. Technically they are flush-able because they do flush, but once they flush they will cause backups and blockages.

2.      Have the system pumped or at least inspected on a routine basis to prevent problems from growing into larger, more expensive problems.

3.      Minimize use of garbage disposal. Garbage disposals increase waterborne solids and grease to the system, both of which are detrimental to the longevity of the system.

4.      If your manhole cover(s) remain exposed they are required to be locked.

5.      Maintain good water efficiency. Dripping faucets, toilets that ‘run’, and other excess water will reduce the usable life of your system.