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UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research & Education Center

UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research & Education Center

Private Wells and Septic Systems

Maintaining a healthy, sanitary waste management system is vital for any property owner and necessary for protecting the health of the public. Florida has more than 2.6 million septic systems in operation with nearly 30% of Floridians on well or septic systems, accounting for more than 12% of all septic systems nationwide.

Septic systems, while reliable, are subject to causing problems for homeowners especially before, during and after storms. Understanding how to manage a septic system before, but especially after, a storm is essential. Learn more about how to manage your septic system after a storm here. Be sure to check out our Septic System 101 webinar to learn more about your septic system. Registration is required to access the archived webinar.

About 88% of Florida's residents are served by public water systems covered by the Federal and State Safe Drinking Water Acts. The other 12% receive their water from "limited-use" public water systems and private wells. While all public water systems in Florida are required to perform routine testing to ensure that they meet state drinking water standards, private well owners are responsible for ensuring that their own water is safe to drink. One of the most common problems experienced by homeowners while maintaining private wells involves properly sanitizing wells after bacterial contamination. Be sure to check out our how-to guide to ensure a safe, sanitary water supply.

ASK IFAS Resources

Experts from across UF/IFAS write publications for Ask IFAS, an online, peer-reviewed publication to provide Floridians with information about Florida agricultural and life science related topics. Use the drop down accordions below to navigate the ASK IFAS publications relevant to septic systems, private wells and water management in Florida.

Septic System Overload: How Heavy Rainfall Affects Your System and What to Do

When heavy rainfall or hurricanes hit, many homeowners with septic systems face...

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