Dos and Don'ts for Your Septic Tank Install in Lynden, WA and Beyond
Coast Construction
Septic Dos and Do Nots: Essential Guidelines for Optimal Functionality
As a homeowner or business owner in Whatcom County, WA, maintaining your septic system is crucial for avoiding costly repairs and ensuring a healthy environment. Coast Construction, with over 40 years of experience and expertise in septic systems, provides essential guidelines to help you keep your system running smoothly. Our team of local septic installation experts is dedicated to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. Established in 1986, we are a fully licensed and insured family-owned business, trusted by the community for our reliable services.
Contact Coast Construction for comprehensive septic system services, backed by free estimates and a 14-month labor and materials warranty.
DO:
- Flush only toilet paper and what has passed through you first.
- Know where your septic is, let it breathe, and protect it.
- Inspect your tanks and field annually or to manufacturer’s specifications, and perform any maintenance required.
- Clean septic tank outlet filter and/or pump filter as needed.
- Use water wisely to reduce the risk of water overloads.
- Avoid using your garbage disposal.
- Use phosphate-free detergent.
- Follow manufacturer’s specifications regarding irrigation, planting, and landscaping.
- Fix all leaking faucets and toilets as soon as possible to prevent over watering of your system and a high-water alarm.
- Direct runoff from roofs, streets, driveways, and adjoining properties away from the drainfield and reserve area.
- Keep septic-tank lids easily accessible and watertight.
- Keep drainfield area and inspection ports accessible.
- Locate as-built for your system, or map location of all system components.
- Keep accurate, detailed records (inspections, pumping, repairs, servicing professionals, etc.).
FOR YOUR SAFETY, DO NOT LEAVE TANK LIDS OR ELECTRICAL PANEL COVERS UNSECURE AT ANY TIME.
DO NOT:
- DO NOT use tank additives or “miracle” system cleaners.
- DO NOT use the toilet as a wastebasket.
- NO diapers, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, tampons, condoms, grease, oils, papers other than toilet paper, plastics, or any other non-biodegradable material.
- DO NOT dispose of paints or hazardous materials.
- DO NOT wash grease and oils down the sink no matter how much hot water chases it.
- DO NOT discard medications (like antibiotics) or antibacterial products down drains.
- DO NOT drive or park heavy vehicles over the drainfield or reserve drainfield area.
- DO NOT compact soils of drainfield or reserve in any way.
- DO NOT cover the drainfield or reserve in any way other than what is recommended by the manufacturer.
- DO NOT grade, level, fill, or cut drainfield or reserve area.
- DO NOT plant deep-rooting plants, especially trees and shrubs, in the drainfield or reserve area.
- DO NOT run storm drainage into the septic system.
- DO NOT drain water from hot tubs into the system.
- DO NOT install sprinkler systems in the drainfield.
- DO NOT allow large animals, (cows, horses, etc.) to enter the drainfield or reserve area.
Why Septic System Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance is the key to a long-lasting and efficient septic system. Many homeowners don’t realize that neglecting basic upkeep can result in system failure, groundwater contamination, and expensive repairs. At Coast Construction, we stress the importance of routine care for every homeowner, whether you already have a system in place or if you are planning to have our team do a septic tank install in Lynden, WA or the surrounding areas. Keeping your system in peak condition helps prevent backups, foul odors, and the need for emergency service.
A major reason for consistent maintenance is the accumulation of solid waste over time. If the septic tank isn’t pumped at regular intervals, solids can build up and eventually flow into the drainfield, clogging it and causing system failure. That kind of damage is not only costly to repair but can also require complete replacement. Our team at Coast Construction provides guidance after every septic tank install in Lynden, WA and the surrounding areas, so you know when pumping and inspections are due.
Beyond just protecting your system, septic maintenance also protects the environment. A failing system can leak harmful bacteria and chemicals into nearby water sources, posing serious health and environmental risks. By staying on top of regular maintenance, you not only save money, but you also help keep Whatcom County’s natural resources safe. Coast Construction proudly helps customers take a proactive approach to septic care after each septic tank install in Lynden, WA and beyond.

Understanding Your Septic System Components
Knowing how your septic system works is essential for proper care and identifying potential issues. At Coast Construction, we educate homeowners on the major components of their systems to help them make informed decisions. Whether you’re buying a home or investing in a new septic tank install Lynden, WA residents recommend, it pays to understand what’s underground. Most systems include a septic tank, drainfield, inlet and outlet pipes, a distribution box, and often, a pump or filter.
The septic tank is the core of the system. It receives all wastewater from your home and separates solids from liquids. Solids settle at the bottom to form sludge, while lighter materials like grease float to the top to form scum. The liquid in between flows out to the drainfield for natural filtration. Tanks may include an outlet filter that needs occasional cleaning, a task our team covers as part of your service when we handle your septic tank install in Lynden, WA.
The drainfield, or leach field, is a network of perforated pipes buried in gravel-filled trenches. It allows pre-treated wastewater to slowly seep into the soil, where natural processes remove any remaining contaminants. This area must be protected from compaction and root intrusion. Our technicians help you identify and preserve this vital part of the system as part of every septic tank install in Lynden, WA, and the surrounding areas, offering advice on landscaping and load-bearing restrictions.
Some systems include additional components like pumps or alarms, especially in properties with challenging terrain. These features help move wastewater uphill or signal when the tank needs attention. Understanding these elements can help homeowners respond quickly to problems. At Coast Construction, our job doesn’t end with the installation; we take time to ensure you’re familiar with how your system works, especially when completing a septic tank install in Lynden, WA or the surrounding areas for new builds or property upgrades.
If you're looking for a company to provide a septic tank install Lynden, WA residents recommend, choose Coast Construction. Our team is ready to answer any questions you have and provide you with a free estimate!
Share On: