Welcome!

We are proud to announce the Snohomish County Health Department’s newest newsletter, The Septic Scoop! In this newsletter, we will share septic-related updates, provide maintenance reminders, and present helpful tips for using and maintaining your septic system. The Septic Scoop will be sent out quarterly to help you stay up to date on all things septic.

In this first newsletter, we have new and updated resources to share so you can learn more about your system. There are also a few helpful reminders about septic care as we head into summer.

Septic Care Workshop

Our septic care workshop is now available online. In this workshop, we cover how your septic system works, how to maintain your system, how to prevent costly problems, and more! If you haven’t already taken it, you can access it here for free, anytime!

Learn More

Take a look at our Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems that has information on how to keep your system running smoothly. Topics include:

How Septic Systems Work
How to Care for Your Septic System
Monitoring & Maintenance Frequencies
Septic System Dos & Don’ts
Landscaping for Septic Systems
Signs of Septic System Damage & Failure
How to Find a Septic Contractor
Questions to Ask a Septic Contractor

Reminders

Take care of your septic system by following the six tips below.

Think at the sink – What goes down your drain has a big impact on your septic system. Use a sink strainer, not a garbage disposal, and avoid putting food scraps, coffee grounds, oil, grease, and harsh chemicals down your drain. Use detergents and soaps in moderation.

Don’t strain your drain – Use water efficiently and stagger use of water-based appliances (such as a washing machine) to avoid overloading your tank and drainfield.

Keep it clean – If you have a well, many things can contaminate your drinking water, such as a failing septic system. Test your water regularly and don’t ignore signs of damage or failure.

Protect it and inspect it – Get your system inspected! Regular septic system maintenance can save you thousands of dollars and protect public health.

Don’t overload the commode – A toilet is not a trash can. Only use as much toilet paper as you need, and don’t flush diapers, wipes, feminine hygiene products, cigarettes, medications, or pet waste. The only things that should be flushed are water, human waste, and toilet paper.

Pump your tank – Make sure your tank is pumped when recommended by a septic professional.

Questions?

Do you have questions about your septic system? You can visit our website for more information on septic systems and contact SHD-EHQ@snoco.org for any additional questions. For information on Savvy Septic financial assistance, visit savvyseptic.com or email savvy.septic@snoco.org. To find a septic professional, click here.