At Realty Masters, we care about the homes we manage, and that includes helping tenants, homeowners, and buyers understand how to properly care for septic systems. With routine maintenance and a few smart habits, a septic system can last for decades. Neglect, however, can lead to expensive repairs, system failures, and environmental concerns.
While many homes in Pensacola are connected to city sewer, older homes and properties in more rural areas may rely on a septic system where sewer service isn’t available or was never extended. A septic system handles household wastewater on-site and typically consists of one or two underground tanks along with drainfield lines that safely disperse treated water into the soil.
Here’s what you need to know to keep a septic system working properly.
Know What Not to Flush
Septic systems are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper only. Avoid flushing or draining:
- Wipes, even those labeled “flushable”
- Paper towels or napkins
- Feminine hygiene products
- Grease, oils, or cooking fats
- Paint, solvents, or harsh chemicals
These items can clog the system or destroy the beneficial bacteria that break down waste.
Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
Use garbage disposals sparingly, as they increase solids in the tank. Avoid excessive use of bleach, antibacterial soaps, and chemical cleaners, which can disrupt the natural bacterial balance inside the system.
Water Usage Matters
Too much water can overwhelm a septic system. Spread out laundry loads, avoid running multiple water-heavy appliances at the same time, and repair leaking faucets or toilets promptly to prevent unnecessary strain on the tank and drain field.
Protect the Drain Field
Never park or drive on the drain field. Keep trees and shrubs away to prevent root intrusion, and avoid building decks, patios, sheds, or placing heavy objects over the system.
Regular Maintenance Is Key
Most septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years, depending on tank size and household usage. Periodic inspections help catch small issues early, before they turn into costly repairs.
Know the Warning Signs
Contact a licensed septic professional if you notice slow drains, sewage backups, foul odors inside or outside the home, unusually green or fast-growing grass over the drain field, or soggy areas in the yard.
Buying a Home with a Septic System in Northwest Florida
If you’re purchasing a home with a septic system, proper due diligence is essential. In addition to a general home inspection, buyers should request a septic system inspection by a licensed septic professional. This inspection typically includes locating the tank, evaluating its condition, reviewing the drain field, and confirming the system is functioning as intended. In many cases, a septic pump-out at the time of inspection is recommended so the tank can be fully evaluated.
Where to Find Septic Permits and Records
In Florida, oversight of septic systems has transitioned from county health departments to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The DEP now manages permitting, inspections, and regulatory oversight for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS), including in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.
- Florida DEP Onsite Sewage Program maintains current septic permits, inspection records, and system approvals.
- County health departments may still retain historical records for older systems installed prior to the transition and can be a helpful secondary resource.
- Sellers may also have original permits, site plans, or maintenance records from installation or prior servicing.
Reviewing these records can provide valuable information about the system’s age, size, location, and any past repairs or modifications and can help avoid surprises after closing.
Additional Resources
For a detailed overview of septic system care and homeowner responsibilities, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection provides educational materials through its Onsite Sewage Program. Caring for a septic system may seem like a small responsibility, but it can save homeowners thousands of dollars over time while protecting both the property and the environment.
