SepticSmart Week features free webinar promoting septic maintenance, public health, water conservation and more

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed September 14-18, 2026, as SepticSmart Week. On September 14, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – in conjunction with federal, state, and local governments and private sector partners – will kick off its eleventh annual SepticSmart Week to encourage American homeowners and communities to properly maintain their septic systems. 

More than 1.3 million homes and businesses in Michigan depend on septic systems to treat wastewater. If not maintained, failing septic systems can contaminate groundwater and harm the environment by releasing bacteria, viruses, and household chemicals and other pollutants to local waterways. 

The design and size of a septic system can vary widely due to a variety of factors. These factors include household size, soil type, site slope, lot size, proximity to surface water bodies, and local regulations. Conventional septic systems utilize gravity to transport wastewater from the home to a drainfield for treatment, while advanced systems may incorporate pumps, alternative media, and aerobic treatment units to transport and treat wastewater.

A conventional septic system includes a septic tank and a drainfield. Wastewater from household activities flows through the home’s plumbing into the septic tank, which is a buried, watertight container typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. Inside the tank, solids settle to the bottom forming sludge, while oils and grease float to the top as scum. The tank’s design prevents these solids from entering the drainfield.

The liquid wastewater, or effluent, exits the tank into the drainfield – a shallow, covered excavation in unsaturated soil. Here, the effluent is discharged through piping onto porous surfaces, allowing it to filter through the soil. This process naturally removes harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients as the wastewater percolates into the ground, ultimately reaching the groundwater. Proper septic system maintenance protects public health, the environment, and saves the homeowner money through avoided costly repairs.

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of the system and protects the environment and public health. Here are key steps to keep your system functioning effectively:

• Regular inspection and pumping. The EPA recommends having a professional inspect your septic system every three years and having the tank pumped as necessary, typically every three to five years.
• Efficient water use. The practice of efficient water use improves the operation of a septic system and reduces the risk of failure. High-efficiency toilets, faucet aerators, and showerheads can help reduce the volume of water entering the septic system. Reducing the water load can prevent the system from becoming overburdened and ensure that it remains functional.
• Proper waste disposal. The septic system can be seriously impacted by what goes down the drain. Avoid flushing anything besides human waste and toilet paper. Never flush or dispose of these items in your drain:
  • Cooking grease or oil
  • Non-flushable or “flushable” wipe (None of them are flushable.)
  • Photographic solutions
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Condoms
  • Dental floss
  • Diapers
  • Cigarette butts
  • Coffee grounds
  • Household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, paint, or paint thinners
• Maintain your drain field. The drain field is a crucial component of your septic system. Keep the area clear of parked cars or heavy equipment. Plant trees an appropriate distance from your drain field to prevent roots from growing into your septic system. Keep roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainwater drainage systems away from the drain field area as excess water slows down the wastewater treatment process.

Join the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) in spreading the SepticSmart Week 2026 message that encourages homeowners and wastewater professionals to maintain septic systems to promote public health, water conservation, and economic wellbeing. Be part of the solution by visiting the EGLE SepticSmart webpage or the EPA septic website for an abundance of resources, videos, and information.

Michigan’s Septic Replacement Loan Program 

Michigan homeowners have access to loans that fund the replacement of failed septic systems. EGLE has contracted with third party, non-profit green bank lender, Michigan Saves, to design and manage the program. The Septic Replacement Loan Program (SRLP) is divided into two tiers, with both income-based financing (Tier 1) and a market-based loan (Tier 2). Systems supported by the SRLP must be evaluated, designed, and installed in accordance with EGLE’s Program Minimum Standards, and must be installed by a Michigan Saves authorized contractor. Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 loans are now available to homeowners.

Since the program started two and a half years ago, more than 475 septic systems have been successfully permitted, installed, and funded across Michigan. That represents more than $8 million invested in replacing failing septic systems and an estimated 60 million gallons of wastewater each year that is now being property treated before entering the environment. 

Visit the Septic Replacement Loan Program webpage or the Michigan Saves website for more information on the program.

Free Webinar for Homeowners to Kick Off SepticSmart Week

Finally, EGLE’s Onsite Wastewater Management Unit is encouraging homeowners to attend the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) SepticSmart training. Dr. Sara Heger will be presenting a free webinar on September 14 at 3 p.m. (EDT) to celebrate the start of SepticSmart Week. This webinar features information about how septic systems work and tips for proper use and maintenance.

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