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Is Your Septic System Leaking?

Puerto Rico, because of our many rural communities and mountains, has a large number of homes and businesses where septic systems are used. About 55 percent of buildings are on septic systems.

What is a septic system?​

A septic system is an underground system designed to capture and treat wastewater, and safely return it to the environment. This process is known as waste water treatment and combines technology with nature to make the water suitable for the final use for which it is intended. Well designed septic systems can even re-purify the water!
A septic system is NOT the same as a septic well, nor a hole in the floor where all the sewage water disappears. It's also not a stinky problem that has no remedy… and also doesn't need to be a temporary fix until the sewer arrives.

The reality is that sewers cannot be installed throughout Puerto Rico, due to high installation costs, environmental impacts, and land features.

A septic system has its own bacterial ecosystem. All kinds of intestinal and non-intestinal bacteria live there that are responsible for breaking down human waste. In this decomposition process, the creation of gases is normal, such as methane, hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, which can be toxic to our health. And, although some of the bacteria in the system also live in our intestine, consuming or having direct contact with them is extremely dangerous. It is for these reasons that it is important to design a healthy septic system.

A well-designed, well-constructed, and well-maintained septic system

Does not smell​
Does not overflow​
Can have a practically indefinite useful life.​
An advanced septic system can remove more than 99% of contaminants. Additionally, with up-to-date maintenance and good construction, a septic system will require much less money than the costs of managing the issues stemming from a damaged system.​

How to spot a failing septic system?​

If you find a well that has a bad smell, attracts vermin (cockroaches, rats, etc.), has mosquito breeding sites, or overflows (whether or not there are rain events), then you are dealing with an unhealthy septic tank. It is highly probable that this well is a source of contamination and a source of dangerous diseases.​
Here you see some of the impacts of an unsuitable septic system:​

1

Groundwater pollution: If a septic system is damaged or poorly constructed, waste can leak into groundwater or nearby surface water bodies, contaminating drinking water sources. This can cause health problems for people who consume this water and damage aquatic ecosystems.

2

Soil pollution: Untreated waste leaking from the septic tank can contaminate the soil, affecting its quality and ability to support plant life. This can affect agriculture and local biodiversity.

3

Air pollution: Gases generated by the decomposition of waste in a septic system can escape into the atmosphere. These gases include methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and volatile compounds that can contribute to poor air quality and cause unpleasant odors. Breathing methane in large quantities can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness and suffocation.

4

Disease risk: Sewage seepage can increase the risk of gastrointestinal illness for humans and wildlife. Some microorganisms transmitted by contaminated water and causing diseases are: Cholera, E. Coli, Salmonella, Hepatitis A, Giardia Lamblia, Norwalk Virus, Shigella and Cryptosporidium.

5

Impact on wildlife: Pollution of surface and groundwater can affect wildlife that depend on these resources for their survival. Additionally, chemicals present in wastewater can directly affect aquatic organisms.

6

Fines and Loss of Property Value: A well that does not comply with established regulations detracts greatly from the value of a property, in addition to the owner risking being penalized by government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Environmental Quality Board and the Department of Natural Resources. Polluting soil and water due to a failed septic tank is considered a crime under the penal code.

Visit the Puerto Rico Penal Code (pages 91 and 92) for more information:

  • Article 235 – Poisoning of waters for public use
  • Article 236 – Environmental pollution
  • Article 237 – Aggravated environmental pollution
 
 
In short, a damaged septic tank poses a serious threat to the environment if not properly repaired or replaced. It is important to perform regular maintenance and timely repairs to prevent these negative impacts.​

It's your waste, it's your responsibility.​

What can you do to have a healthy septic system?​

1

Visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website: How to Care for Your Septic System

2

If your system leaks, overflows, smells bad, or attracts vermin, you’ll want to consult with a specialist.

3

Be “SepticSmart”. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s SepticSmart website to learn tips on how to optimize the use of your septic system.

4

Empty your septic system regularly. The emptying frequency will depend on the size of your system and the number of people using the building. Visit the Services section to contact your municipality for the septic system emptying services they offer.

5

Visit this page and AtmaGO regularly, receive notifications, and stay up to date!

Helpful Resources​

National Environmental Services Center (NESC)​

The NESC website provides resources and case studies on decentralized wastewater treatment technologies, including aerobic treatment units, composting toilets, greywater systems, and more.​

Water Environment Federation (WEF)​

WEF offers information and publications on decentralized wastewater treatment options, including articles, case studies, and technical resources​

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)​

The EPA provides information and guidance on decentralized wastewater treatment systems, including technologies such as constructed wetlands, package treatment plants, and membrane bioreactors​

Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE)​

AWE offers resources on water-efficient technologies and practices, including greywater systems and other decentralized approaches to water management​

National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA)​

NOWRA provides information and resources on decentralized wastewater treatment systems, including case studies, technical guidance, and industry news​

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