Most people don't give a lot of thought to the waste water created in their homes from kitchen, bathroom and laundry area drains. Waste water treatment is usually out-of -sight and out-of-mind  - until problems occur. And yet, many people don't realize that a septic system failure is more than a nuisance: It is a health hazard and a danger to the environment.

This Chapter will help you evaluate your septic system and pinpoint risks before they become problems. system and pinpoint risks before they become problems. It introduces you to what a septic system is and how it functions and provides general guidelines for safe management or additional requirements. Contact your nearest Cooperative Extension office, a local health or environmental agency or a septic system contractor for advice. You'll learn:

• How to plan the design and location of a new home's septic system
• How to determine whether your septic system is the right size for your home
• How to maintain a septic system
• How to prevent your septic system from failing