When septic systems do not function properly, humans may come into contact with wastewater that contains disease organisms and other harmful substances. Nearby groundwater and surface water supplies can be contaminated. "Failure of the system can be caused by lack of proper maintenance, overuse of water in the household, or improper design of the septic system" says John Church, University of Illinois Extension educator, natural resources.

To help homeowners understand their septic system, how to care for it, and how to troubleshoot problems, the U of I Extension has published a web site, "Septic Systems in Illinois," at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/septicsystems. It covers both tank-type and surface-discharge systems and also addresses soil conditions and their effect on system functions.

The website was developed by U of I Educators with the support of staff from the Illinois Soil Classifiers Association, the Illinois EPA, the state Department of Public Health, and local health departments.

In addition to the web site, the Extension offers the publication, "Septic Systems: A Homeowner's Guide," available at county Extension offices or at https://pubsplus.uiuc.edu/C1378.html.