Summer Home Checklist: Simple Ways to Protect South Carolina’s Environment

Summer in South Carolina means more time outdoors, from backyard barbecues and gardening to family gatherings, pool days and weekend projects. While we’re enjoying the season, the choices we make at home can have a big impact on the air, land and water around us.

Small actions can help protect our state’s natural resources and keep our communities healthy. With the summer is in full swing, add these environmentally friendly tasks to your home checklist.

Take Care of Your Septic System

For many South Carolinians, a septic system is an important part of managing household wastewater. A properly maintained septic system helps protect public health, groundwater and nearby rivers, lakes and streams. 

Before summer visitors arrive, make sure your system is ready:

• Have your septic system inspected regularly and pumped as needed. SCDES recommends inspections every one to two years and pumping every three to five years, depending on your household size and tank needs. 
• Know where your septic tank and drainfield are located.
• Avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy structures over your drainfield.
• Spread out water-intensive activities, such as doing multiple loads of laundry in one day.
• Only flush human waste and toilet paper — items like wipes, grease, chemicals and other household products can damage your system. 

A little maintenance now can help prevent costly repairs later while protecting South Carolina’s waterways.

Reduce Water Waste

Summer heat can mean higher water use for lawns, gardens, pools and everyday activities. Conserving water helps protect this valuable resource and reduces the amount of wastewater that must be treated.

Simple ways to save water include:

• Fix leaking faucets and toilets.
• Water plants during cooler parts of the day.
• Use low-flow fixtures when possible.
• Wash full loads of laundry and dishes.
• Consider drought-tolerant plants for landscaping.

Every drop saved helps support South Carolina’s water future.

Dispose of Batteries Properly

Many everyday items, including toys, electronics, power tools and rechargeable devices, rely on batteries. When batteries are thrown away incorrectly, they can create safety hazards and environmental concerns.

Help keep your home and community safe:

• Do not place loose batteries in household trash or recycling bins.
• Store unwanted batteries in a safe location until they can be properly recycled.
• Follow local guidance for battery disposal and recycling options.

Proper battery management helps prevent fires, protects workers and keeps harmful materials out of the environment. 

Keep Chemicals Out of Drains and Waterways

Summer often means more outdoor projects, lawn care, painting, pool maintenance and home improvement. Many of these activities involve products that should be handled carefully.

Never pour household chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers, paint, motor oil or other hazardous materials down drains, storm drains or onto the ground. These materials can travel into local waterways and impact water quality. 

Instead:

• Follow product labels for use and disposal.
• Use only the amount needed.
• Look for local household hazardous waste collection opportunities.
• Choose environmentally friendly products when possible.

Protect Storm Drains and Prevent Pollution

Storm drains are designed to move rainwater away from roads and neighborhoods, but they can also carry pollutants directly into nearby streams, rivers and lakes.

Help protect local waterways by:

• Keeping grass clippings, leaves and yard debris out of streets and storm drains.
• Picking up pet waste.
• Using fertilizers and pesticides responsibly.
• Washing vehicles where runoff can be absorbed instead of flowing into storm drains.
• Keeping trash and litter properly contained.

Remember: Only rain belongs in the drain.

Make This Summer a Season of Sustainability

Protecting South Carolina’s environment starts at home. Whether it’s maintaining a septic system, conserving water, recycling batteries or preventing pollution, everyday choices add up.

This summer, take a few minutes to check off these simple steps and help protect the air, land, water and coasts that make South Carolina such a special place.

Learn more about protecting your home and environment through SCDES’s “Good to Know” resources.