What maintenance does an aerobic septic system require in Texas?

In Texas, a new aerobic system must be covered by a contract with a licensed maintenance provider for the first two years. The provider inspects the system and reports to the permitting authority and owner at least once every four months, or every six months with electronic monitoring. After two years, owners may be allowed to maintain the system themselves, but some counties require training or prohibit homeowner maintenance. TCEQ warns never to use swimming pool chlorine tablets in the disinfection unit, only tablets certified for wastewater. AgriLife adds that the air pump must run continuously and the trash tank typically needs pumping every 2 to 3 years.

Check your local rule. This varies by state, county or city. Your permitting office has the final word; the official lookup pages below show you who that is.

Sources

• Maintenance of On-Site Sewage FacilitiesTexas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)
• Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems: Aerobic Treatment Unit (L-5302)Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
• Maintain Your Septic System to Protect Well Water (ESC-015)Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service