Septic Systems

A failed septic system is expensive to repair and it pollutes the waterways. Protect your investment and Virginia’s water quality by taking care of your septic system.

Where is my septic tank?

• If you cannot locate your tank from your own records, you may be able to obtain your system records from the appropriate County Health Department.
• Legally, septic tanks must be located more than 5 feet from your home’s foundation.

How does a septic system work?

• Septic systems have four components: pipe carrying waste from the home, septic tank, drainfield and soil.
• Microbes in the soil digest or remove most contaminants from waste water before it reaches groundwater.

To have your septic system inspected or tank pumped costs between $175-$200. Replacing a failed septic system costs between $3,000-$10,000.

What can I do to prolong the life of my septic system?

• Get your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years by a licensed septic contractor.
• Garbage disposals increase pumping frequency to every 1-2 years.
• Practice water conservation by installing water saving fixtures and repairing leaks.
• Plant only grass over your septic system’s pipe and drainfield. Roots from trees or shrubs might cause damage.
• Avoid driving or parking on the drain field to keep stress off your drain field pipes.
• Stagger your water use (for chores like laundry) throughout the week.
• Do not dump non-degradables like grease and plastics into your drains or toilet.
• Use septic system-friendly household soaps and cleaners.
• Be careful using commercial septic tank additives. These products usually do not help and may hurt a system in the long run.