Resources
Recent posts
- All
- ARTICLES
- COMMUNITY
- EDUCATION
Western Fairfax Christian Ministries
About Western Fairfax Christian Ministries WFCM serves qualified individuals and families of all races, colors, national origins,…
Tenants and Workers United
TWU first organized in the mid-1980s in response to the scheduled mass evictions of thousands of low-income…
SafeSpot Fairfax
SafeSpot clients are child victims of sexual and severe physical abuse. These young and vulnerable individuals will…
HomeStretch
For more than 30 years Homestretch has helped homeless families in Virginia become self-sufficient by giving them…
Loudoun Literacy Council
Loudoun Literacy Council has been changing lives through reading and learning to promote personal growth and empowerment…
Prince William County Community Foundation
In Prince William County, an alarming 44% (more than double the national average) of food-insecure children reside…
American Heart Association
Before the American Heart Association existed, people with heart disease were thought to be doomed to complete…
Fairfax CASA
Fairfax County Court Appointed Special Advocates, Inc (CASA) is a nonprofit agency committed to advocating for children…
FAQs and Tips
Understanding how your septic system works and maintaining it will save you time and money, and most importantly, help protect the environment. Feel free to ask our professional technicians questions what we do and why.
How does a conventional septic system work?
Conventional septic systems are the most common type of septic system. The others are innovative/alternative I/A systems and cesspools. A conventional system includes a septic tank, distribution box, and drain field.
How do I know if my system is having problems?
- Muddy Soil or Pools of Wastewater around Your Septic Tank or Soil Absorption System
- Sewage Smells around Your System or Inside Your House
- Backups When You Do Laundry, Take Showers, or Flush the Toilet
Will additives help my system?
There isn’t one on the market that can make a failing system pass inspection. We do not evaluate the accuracy of claims manufacturers make about the effects their products will have on system performance.
How often should I pump?
The Chesapeake Bay Act requires septic tanks to be cleaned every 3–5 years. Pumping your system regularly will prolong the life of your septic tank.
Why are failing septic systems harmful?
Failing systems leak excessive nutrients and bacteria into natural waterways, destroying plant and animal habitats and can transfer diseases, such as dysentery, hepatitis, and typhoid fever to animals and humans.
Do I really save money by maintaining my system?
Costs range from $355 - $415 for pumping, inspections start at $750. New systems could cost $50,000 or more.
Do’s & Don’ts
DO have the system inspected and pumped every 3–5 years. If the tank fills up with an excess of solids, the wastewater will not have enough time to settle in the tank. These excess solids will then pass on to the drain field, where they will clog the drain lines and soil.
DON’T use your toilet or sink as a trash can by dumping non-biodegradables, such as cigarette butts, diapers, feminine products, or grease down your sink or toilet. Non-biodegradables can clog the pipes, while grease can thicken and clog pipes. Store cooking oils, fats, and grease in a can for disposal in the garbage, or better yet, bring it to a recycling facility.