ASK THE BUILDER | You never ever want to put paint, grease or chlorine bleach into a septic tank. The only thing that should go into the tank is waste from your body and toilet paper.

"Don't flush kitty litter," and more quick-but-essential expert tips for keeping keep your septic system running well—and saving your home from disaster.

Having a septic system is a necessity and can be unsightly with aboveground pipes, risers, ventilation systems, or large mounds. However, homeowners can carefully landscape around these problem items.