Posted on: Sept. 5, 2023 - 5:30 p.m.
What is an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System?
An onsite wastewater treatment (septic) system is used in areas without access to municipal sewer lines. They are typically installed in rural or suburban homes and businesses, and use a combination of natural and technological processes to treat wastewater from bathrooms, showers, kitchen drains and laundry. The system works by separating solid waste from the liquid when the solids settle in the septic tank. The liquid then passes through a series of pipes and chambers where it is filtered/treated and released into a drain field | View Example >
Onsite wastewater treatment systems are also called:
- Septic systems
- Conventional septic systems
- Decentralized wastewater treatment systems
- Cluster systems
- Individual sewage disposal systems
- Private sewage systems
- Alternative treatment systems
Proper installation and maintenance, including regular inspections, are important to ensure the system functions efficiently, protects public health and the environment, and preserves valuable water resources.
Quick Tip Videos
Think at the Sink
Learn what not to put down your kitchen sink, how to properly dispose of food waste and how to use cleaning supplies in moderation | Watch Video >
Don't Strain Your Drain
Learn about the importance of using water efficiently, staggering water use of water-based appliances and using energy efficient appliances | Watch Video >
Keep It Clean
Learn about the importance of testing your well water, and its relationship to your system | Watch Video >
Shield Your Field
Learn about your system’s drainfield, including how it works and tips to take care of it | Watch Video >
Protect It and Inspect It
Learn about a typical onsite wastewater treatment system inspection, how often an inspection should be performed and considerations for advanced systems | Watch Video >
Don't Overload the Commode
Learn about what can be flushed down the toilet, and what should be thrown in the trash | Watch Video >
Pump Your Tank
Learn about a typical tank pump-out service, and how a tank works | Watch Video >
More Resources
For Homeowners
For Rental Properties
Learn more on the EPA website | Visit Site >
Receive Email Updates
To keep you informed about more helpful tips to maintain your septic system and changes to rules that could affect you, ADEQ is providing periodic email updates to septic system owners | Sign Up >
