In the past year, we’ve posted hundreds of stories to OnsiteInstaller.com. They include everything we know you love — company profiles, blogs, online exclusives and industry updates. 

Here, we highlight the top 10 most popular stories. If you missed any of these, now is your chance to catch up. And if you’ve already read them, well, just remember that many things are better the second time around. Enjoy this look back at 2013. 

10. Supply and Demand

In the No. 10 position is a story of diversity and ingenuity.

Mark Hacker, owner of Hacker Plumbing & Drilling has transformed his business through referrals, alternative systems and even expansion into small commercial systems. Now, the company boasts $1.4 million in annual revenue. 

9. How the Affordable Care Act Will Affect Your Business 

Before HealthCare.gov opened on Oct. 1, we posted this article explaining some of the changes to health care and how they would affect small businesses. Obviously, the Onsite Installer audience is just as interested in the law as the rest of the country, as this article skyrocketed in popularity during that time. 

8. Troubleshooting: Structural Integrity of the Septic Tank 

In the No. 8 position is this troubleshooting piece to help service providers determine whether a septic tank or holding tank is structurally sound and in good condition. Note: If you haven’t already, this is a good one to bookmark for future reference. 

7. Troubleshooting: Excessive Corrosion Around the Outlet Baffle 

Our popular Troubleshooting series ranked No. 7 as well, with this article about excessive corrosion around outlet baffles. Author and expert Jim Anderson explained some of the reasons you might encounter the condition and what corrections need to be made. 

6. Tree Bark: The Miracle Treatment Media?

Hmmmm … Ponderosa pine in a treatment system? You read that right. In this blog post, Editor Jim Kneiszel discussed reports of a Colorado Department of Transportation rest stop that used layers of bark to break down waste. Could the future of roadside rest stops be here? 

5. Septic Tank Deterioration: Three Tips for Pumpers 

What can you do to minimize — and possibly eliminate — septic tank deterioration? These suggestions from Dave Gustafson, an engineer with the Water Resource Center at the University of Minnesota Extension hit a chord with Onsite Installer readers. Find out what your first steps should be when you see signs of deterioration. 

4. Troubleshooting: What to do About Odor Complaints 

In the No. 4 position is this Troubleshooting article about a common homeowner complaint: odors. Although difficult to track down, author and expert Jim Anderson offers a few starting points and methods for eliminating possible causes. Will it make your task any easier? We sure hope so. 

3. What Made Those Protesters Shout ‘Save Our Septic, Save Our Septic!’ 

Municipal sewer or onsite systems? That was the question facing residents of Port Charlotte, Fla., earlier this year. Editor Jim Kneiszel blogged about the controversy to force residents to abandon their septic tanks and hook up to a municipal sewer. 

2. Troubleshooting: Is the Water Level Too High in the Septic Tank 

At No. 2 is yet another Troubleshooting article, this time a guide about water levels in the septic tank.

Expert Jim Anderson explained some of the common causes of high water, and what steps you can take to solve the problem. 

1. Maryland Requiring BAT for Septic Systems 

And coming in at No. 1 — our most popular article of the year at OnsiteInstaller.com — is a story about Maryland’s new requirements. Earlier this year, Maryland began requiring onsite wastewater systems to use the Best Available Technology (BAT) for nitrogen removal. The stringent requirements were part of the state’s response to the regional Chesapeake Bay restoration program. Throughout the year, this article remained high on the list for Onsite Installer readers.