Homeowner Education

Tri-State Liquid Waste Co

Onsite Wastewater Treatment System

Homeowner Septic System Guides & Free Class

As spring arrives, many homeowners start thinking about home maintenance — and if your home has an onsite (septic) system, it’s especially important to understand how it works and how to take care of it.


Whether your system needs repairs, you’re planning a replacement, or you’ve recently moved into a home with a septic system, having the right information can help you avoid costly problems down the road.


The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) offers free resources designed specifically for homeowners, including:


  • Free Homeowner’s Septic System Guides
  • Easy‑to‑understand guides that explain how onsite systems work, how to maintain them, and what signs to watch for. Available in both English and Spanish.



  • Free Interactive Homeowner Class
  • An online, self‑paced course that walks you through septic system basics, proper care, and long‑term maintenance. A free account is required to access the course.



By taking advantage of these free tools, you can better understand your system, protect your investment, and help ensure it lasts for the life of your home.

Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Homeowner Education


Check out these FAQs for Homeowner's Education Course offered by NOWRA and give us a call today for more information!

  • What is the Homeowner's Education Course offered by NOWRA?

    The Homeowner's Education Course is a free, online training module designed to educate property owners about the basics of onsite wastewater treatment and maintenance. It covers key concepts such as the importance of wastewater treatment, system features, final treatment and dispersal, management, maintenance, safety, and troubleshooting.

  • Who can benefit from the Homeowner's Education Course?

    While the course is primarily targeted at property owners with onsite wastewater systems, it is also beneficial for the general public, realtors, local health officials, and septic system professionals.

  • How can I access the Homeowner's Education Course?

    The course is available for free on NOWRA's Online Learning Academy. Users need to create an account to access the course. You can find the course at NOWRA's Online Learning Academy.

  • What topics are covered in the Homeowner's Education Course?

    The course covers the importance of wastewater treatment, an overview of treatment in an onsite system, typical onsite system features, final treatment and dispersal, management, maintenance, safety, and system troubleshooting.

  • Who developed the Homeowner's Education Course?

    The course was developed through a U.S. EPA grant in partnership with the Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP).

  • Is there a cost to take the Homeowner's Education Course?

    No, the course is completely free. However, you need to create an account on NOWRA's Online Learning Academy to access it.

  • Who should I contact if I have questions about the Homeowner's Education Course?

    For any questions regarding the course, you can contact NOWRA at info@nowra.org.

  • What is SepticSmart Week and when is it?

    SepticSmart Week is an annual event organized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to promote awareness about the importance of onsite wastewater treatment. This year, it will take place from September 16 to 20, 2024.

  • How can the Homeowner's Education Course be used during SepticSmart Week?

    The Homeowner's Education Course is an excellent resource to promote during SepticSmart Week. It can help spread awareness among homeowners and public officials about proper onsite wastewater treatment practices.

  • Where can I find more resources for SepticSmart Week?

    You can find additional ideas and educational materials for SepticSmart Week on the EPA's SepticSmart program website at epa.gov/septic.

  • What are some key messages to share during SepticSmart Week?

    During SepticSmart Week, it's important to share these key messages:

    • Protect It and Inspect It!
    • Think at the Sink!
    • Don't Overload the Commode!
    • Pump Your Tank!
    • Don't Strain Your Drain!
    • Shield Your Field!
    • Keep It Clean!