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Breast Cancer Research Fund
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to achieving prevention and a cure for…
Feed The Fight
Feed the Fight began as a neighborhood effort to patronize local restaurants and show support for healthcare…
What Happens When My Sterling VA Septic Tank Is Full?
You might have a beautiful home that you fancy. Septic system may be one of the vital…
St Jude’s Hospital
Why Danny Thomas opened St. Jude More than 70 years ago, Danny Thomas was a young entertainer…
NVFS Serve Campus
SERVE CAMPUS NVFS’ SERVE Campus houses a variety of programs that help our neighbors receive the immediate…
Northern Virginia Family Service
Northern Virginia Family Service’s (NVFS) breadth, depth and scope of services offer the resources and support to…
Farthest Corners
In February of 2006, a small group met in the upstairs library at Greenwich Presbyterian Church in…
What to Know When Buying a Home with a Well and Septic System in Virginia
Visit our YouTube Channel In Virginia, about 1.6 million people rely on water supplied by a…
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.