Spring Cleaning: Don’t Ignore Your Septic System

Routine pumpouts, proper water use, and careful waste disposal form the foundation of a healthy septic system.

Many septic tanks are located underground in residential yards and require regular maintenance to function properly. Grigvovan/Shutterstock

As the snow melts and the ground warms, it’s time to look at the most underappreciated utility in the home: the septic system.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, one in five homes has an individual septic system. Unfortunately, many septic systems are often neglected due to being out of sight, out of mind. The good news is that it’s actually quite easy to keep things flowing smoothly (pun intended).