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	Care & Maintenance of a Sewage System How can I recognize if my Septic System is having problems? (Diagrams)
	A sewage system which has been properly installed, should, with proper care & maintenance provide many years of service. There are, however, some things which individuals need to be aware of which will help the system function properly.
	1.	Avoid putting the following into a septic system: Fats, oils & grease Gasoline, antifreeze Varnishes, paints & solvents Caustic drain & harsh cleaners Photographic solutions, bleach, pesticides Nail polish remover Cat box litter Tampons, sanitary napkins, diapers, paper towels, condoms Plastics Coffee grounds, egg shells & other kitchen waste
	2.	Do not allow roof drains or sump water to discharge into the sewage system.
	3.	Do not allow surface water to drain towards the area of the leaching bed.
	4.	Do not direct water softener and iron filter discharge to the sewage system unless the system has been designed to accept such discharges.
	5.	Water usage in the home should be kept to a minimum. Excessive use, such as doing numerous loads of laundry in one day, could flush solids from the treatment unit (septic tank) into the leaching bed.
	6.	There should be no need to use “starters”, “bacterial feeds” or “cleaners”.
	7.	The treatment unit should be inspected at regular intervals & pumped out whenever sludge & scum occupy 1/3 of the working capacity of the tank. Because they contain deadly gases, septic tanks should only be inspected by firms specializing in this work.
	8.	Vehicular traffic (including snowmobiles) should not be allowed over the leaching bed.
	9.	The area over a leaching bed should have a good cover of grass allowing for adequate sunlight & ventilation to be maintained. Avoid planting shrubs and trees over this area.
	*For additional information contact your local Municipal Office, Health Unit or Conservation Authority or visit the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing web site.