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Homeowners in the Warrenton, VA area often come to us with questions about well water and what they should expect and what they should know. Working with a well is a somewhat new experience for some in the Northern Virginia area, and with inexperience comes questions – that is where we come in. Below are some of the most asked questions

Other than when buying a home in Northern Virginia, most homeowners rarely think about well water testing. These frequently asked questions address the basic questions about well water testing in the Northern Virginia area. Should I Test My Northern Virginia Well? Simply put, yes. In the early 2000s, contaminated well water led to 26 percent

When buying a home in the Washington DC or Northern Virginia area you may be required to complete well water testing before securing a mortgage, but is that the only time it is necessary? Probably not. Well water is more than simply a source of hydration, it also is used throughout your home for a variety of activities and

Pressure is everywhere telling you bottled water is the right choice for you and your family, and since you pay for each bottle, it must be better right? The higher the price the better the bottled water; right? No, actually that is a reasonable – but wrong – assumption. Most soft drink manufacturers now sell bottled water alongside their other

Iron is one of the most abundant minerals on the planet and is essential to human health – it gives blood its red color and allows the blood to carry oxygen. So is iron in well water harmful to your health? Iron in well water usually does not present a health problem, but it may

In January 2006 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented regulations to reduce acceptable levels of arsenic in public and well water drinking water systems. Private well owners, however, are largely on their own to test and assure the safety of their water since they are not regulated in the same manner. EPA studies show that arsenic levels from public water systems are not nearly as high

Throughout history, private wells have been an excellent source for drinking water. To this day, well water is extremely popular in areas throughout the United States. Northern Virginia is one such area that has the topography to support well water. If tested on a regular basis, well water can provide quality that surpasses that of

The Northern Virginia area is no stranger to hard water and mineral build up. Whether you are a resident in Aquia, VA or Sterling, VA chances are your household water is hard. Well water is pumped from the earth. During this process it comes in contact with a various mineral deposits. Naturally water has the

Hard water is a common water problem in private wells. Regarded as water that contains hardness minerals above 1 grain per gallon (GPG), hard water can be affected by such minerals as calcium and magnesium. The water hardness scale runs from slightly hard (1 to 3.5 GPC), moderately hard (3.5 to 7 GPG), hard (7

If you are a resident of Northern Virginia, chances are your residence may not be serviced by public water. The water supplies in such towns as Fairfax Station, Leesburg, Manassas, and Winchester are drawn from private wells. Like a septic system, the success of well water is heavily dependant on construction and maintenance of the

If you’ve ever noticed a rotten egg taste or odor in your well water, the culprit behind it is hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide gas can result from many different sources, as it can be produced naturally in groundwater or in a well, water distribution system, or hot water heater. In rare instances, hydrogen sulfide can

If you own a private well, you are well aware that well water can be contaminated quite easily and should be tested regularly according to regulations. One such possible well water contaminant is known as coliform bacteria. Coliforms are common in the environment, as they’re always present in animal and human digestive systems and found

Private drinking water wells can be constructed in three types, which include driven, dug, and drilled wells. No matter the type of private drinking water well, all wells need to be properly constructed, maintained, and inspected. For more information on each well type, read on: Driven Well Driven wells are typically easy and inexpensive to

Well water is a healthy alternative to bottled water, municipality provided water and even filtered water, and homeowners throughout Warrenton, VA are realizing the benefits. When a well is managed appropriately and monitored for cleanliness and safety, the fresh taste of well water is unmatched. Coupled with the vital nutrients and minerals found naturally in

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), homeowners with well water in Warrenton, VA (as well as the rest of the United States) should have their well water tested once each year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels. If you suspect other contaminants, you should test for those too; however

You may be wondering, “How can I tell if the well is running dry at my home?” Here are some things you can do to determine if there may be a problem with the well at your Loudoun County home. Turn on your faucets. If your well is running dry, then your faucets will sputter

Water Level and Dry Wells in Warrenton VA You’ve been given the bad news that the aquifer feeding your well in Warrenton VA may be running dry. What do you do now? Here are some ways to give you well’s aquifer a chance to recover: Reduce water usage by installing flow restrictors or appliances that

Have you had well water testing at your Loudoun County VA home in the last year? If not, now is the time. We’ve had a lot of snow this year, and that means that we’ve also had a lot of salt put down on our roads. The salt from the roads runs off into our

As part of our series, “Exploring Your Home Septic System”, SES has aimed to help you better understand your system. Septic systems are a huge responsibility for homeowners. Full knowledge of your home system will help you avoid damage that can put you, your family, and the rest of the Northern Virginia Fairfax County community

New Regulations were adopted by Loudoun County on November 3, 2008. All non-conventional septic systems permitted prior to that date require an annual inspection before July 1, 2009. If you are an existing SES customer with a current contract do not worry. We will automatically post your required inspection before the July 1, 2009 deadline.

Loudoun Inspection Requirements Frequently Asked Questions and Answers from SES Q: What is the difference between an annual inspection and maintenance? A: The ordinance requires an annual inspection in which the inspector is required to report the condition of the system at that time and prior to any maintenance or repair being completed. Maintenance is

It’s simple — septic systems must be inspected on a routine basis, even if a system appears to be working just fine. Inspections evaluate the present and future performance of an existing sewage system, and the fact that a system appears to be in good working condition at the present time does not guarantee that

New Loudoun County Law Requires Septic System Inspection Before July 1, 2009 If you live in Loudoun County, Virginia, and you’re the owner of a non-conventional septic system, you are required to have your septic system inspected before July 1, 2009. Non-conventional systems include peat filters, sand filters, ATU’s, drip, low pressure, and spray. Manufactures

Looking for that extra confidence when hiring a septic system inspector? Look no further than SES’s NSF-certified professionals. NSF International is an independent, not-for-profit organization for public health and safety, specializing in standards development, product certification, education, and risk management. Virginia law requires that anyone who claims to be a certified septic system inspector be

Septic system maintenance is required by law in Loudoun County, VA. According to amended Loudoun County pump-out ordinance: “Except as provided herein, for all individual sewage disposal systems not requiring a Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) permit, the owner shall cause a maintenance pump-out of the septic tank of each such system to be

A rural home, without access to a municipal sewage system, needs to have its own septic system. A requirement of having a septic system, is that the land passes what is known as “perc testing.” A failed perc test means that no house can be built. Therefore, before you make an offer to buy a

Considering buying a home with a septic tank? While there is no Virginia law requiring septic systems or wells to be inspected at the time real property is bought or sold, your mortgage company will require real estate septic inspections in Gainesville VA. If you are buying your home without a mortgage, you should still

Your home has had its septic inspection in Prince William County VA, and everything is working fine. Yet that septic odor persists, and you wonder if something is going on with your neighbor’s septic system. And since that smell seems to come from all directions, how do you know which neighbor has a septic problem?

The flush of the toilet sets a process in motion that the majority of us do not think of often – the septic system. The problems of a septic system are easy to avoid thinking about, but when there is trouble brewing in the septic tank early intervention and proper septic tank maintenance can fix the problem. The

A system failure occurs when an existing septic system cannot be fixed or the system cannot be brought into compliance. If you are facing this problem as the owner of the land the system is deployed on, you will have to install a new system. Often times in situations where the septic system has failed

Untreated sewage discharging to streams and ditches A soft, smelly spot in the yard with lush grass growth Contaminated Wells If you have a Septic tank System in Northern Virginia (NOVA) and notice any of the above mentioned, your septic tank system may have failed or be in the process of failing. There are numerous

Here are steps to troubleshoot a standard gravity septic system: Open the lid of the septic tank and observe the water level. If the level is normal, then the problem is in the line inside the house or between the house and the tank. There may be a simple stop-up or clog, or the line

Typically a septic system malfunction is caused by improper maintenance or because of the way the system is operated. The good news is that a state of Virginia certified septic system company such as SES can fix these issues to bring the septic system back into compliance the state of Virginia requires. With proper care

How to diagnose and fix the issue Recently, the mid-Atlantic region has suffered from some horrendous rainfall caused by the various hurricanes emerging from the south. Whether you live in Warrenton VA, Fairfax, VA or Chantilly, Virginia the affects from the rainfall can be seen all around. Many homeowners who operate septic systems in NOVA (Northern Virginia) may experience flooding

If you have neglected to keep track of septic cleanings or you just have no idea when it was last pumped because you are a new owner, keep your eyes out for the tell tale signs of a septic emergency. Outdoor signs Soft, soggy yard over tank Foul odor in close proximity to home Animals

While some septic problems can be easily corrected by pumping your septic tanks, other problems, such as biomat clogging, require more extensive investigation and repair. Biomat clogging can slow the movement of wastewater into the surrounding soil, which can lead to effluent back up or surfacing. Biomat is a naturally occurring, tar-like substance comprised of

Chances are you never pay much attention to the septic tank on your Northern Virginia property, until there is a problem. But how do you know if there is a problem with your septic tank or if you are seeing nothing more than standing water from the recent rain? The indicators of septic tank problems

The septic tank is one of the least thought-of systems in your Warrenton, VA home but in reality, all homeowners should pay closer attention to the signs exhibited by a septic tank. The most septic tank failures occur because of specific common causes that can typically be avoided by most Washington DC homeowners. Perhaps one

Septic tank systems in Warrenton VA will occasionally cause sewage odors in the home. These odors can be annoying, and cause health problems in extreme cases. Here are some common odor issues and how they can be fixed: A dry trap in a basement floor drain allows gases from the septic tank to vent back

Septic Tanks in Loudoun County VA are not easy to repair. That’s why homeowners need to look for and be aware of the 4 signs that septic tanks in Loudoun County VA have problems. There’s not a whole lot of guesswork, though: most of these signs are pretty obvious Foul odors coming from the septic

Your Northern Virginia septic system is an intricate structure of many parts that must work together in order to keep your system working properly. As a homeowner, you’re responsible for maintaining your septic system and having it periodically inspected. Knowing the different parts of your septic system and understanding how they work is the first

Landscaping your Northern Virginia drainfield is not only a way to dress up your yard, but can also be beneficial to your septic system. The correct plants or grass planted on a drainfield can help reduce soil erosion, remove moisture, and add nutrients, as well as protect your drainfield from being paved over or parked

One of the most common causes of septic system failure is root movement and clogging by trees, shrubs, and groundcovers planted too close to the system. Extra levels of nutrients delivered to soils by the drainfield can attract tree and plant roots to the septic system, which can subsequently harm your system’s drainfield, leachfield, seepage

Homeowners with septic tanks in Warrenton VA might be tempted to plant vegetable gardens over their drainage fields. According to the experts at Virginia Tech, that probably isn’t a good idea. Food can become contaminated with bacteria and viruses from the effluent in the soil, and make you and your family sick. Sure, properly operating

No one said that septic tanks in Loudoun County VA were pretty – that raised rectangle is pretty noticeable – but it is also part of your yard’s landscape. And that landscape could be awesome if it weren’t for that unsightly septic tank. So how can you hide tanks in Loudoun County VA, or make

Septic tanks and septic systems are never thought of in your Northern Virginia home, until something goes wrong with either the septic tank or septic system and it is obvious. These tips will help keep your septic tank functioning properly: Aim your rainwater away from the septic drainfield. If the drainfield will not absorb or neutralize the liquid waste simply remains and eventually begins pooling

Your Northern Virginia septic system must contain a certain amount of bacterium in order to break down organic matter and keep it working properly. When disinfecting your bathroom, keep in mind that everything that flows from your bathroom ends up in your septic system. Many cleaning products and disinfectants on the market today are hard

Septic tanks offer an alternative to a wastewater treatment plant. Septic tanks are often used in rural areas to deal with the small amount of sewage created by a single household. The advantages of septic tanks include minimum maintenance and minimum skills required for operation. Regular maintenance, along with the proper use of your septic system, will not only help assure that your septic

You can extend the life of the septic system in your Northern Virginia home by being ultra-careful about what goes into it. Following is a list of items that should not be flushed down a toilet and thus into your septic tank: Cat litter, including “clumping” cat litter, which consists mostly of clay particles. It

Installing a high-efficiency, or low-flow, showerhead and faucet aerator is an easy, inexpensive way to extend the life of your septic system and reduce your home’s water consumption. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, showering represents approximately 17 percent of residential indoor water use in the United States, which adds up to more than

One of the simplest ways to keep your septic system healthy and functioning at an optimal level is to reduce the use of your garbage disposal. Garbage disposals can add excessive scraps in a septic system and lead to rapid scum and sludge buildup in the septic tank. Overuse of your garbage disposal can also

Regular septic tank system maintenance, along with the proper use of your septic tank system, will help assure that your septic tank system is functioning correctly. Using water efficiently is part of proper use and maintenance of your septic system, as conserving water can help extend the life of your septic system by reducing soil

There are many don’ts when it comes to your Quantico, Reston, or Aldie home’s septic system maintenance. For instance, you should never drive over the septic tank area or drainfield, nor place any permanent construction over the tank. You should also never put oil or grease, platic objects, strong chemicals, cooking fat, hair clippings, and

Household cleaners come in a variety of shapes these days; drops to eliminate odors in the garbage disposal, detergent packs for the dishwasher, liquids for laundry, and still we turn to the time-honored favorite – bleach – for some household chores. But what – if anything – does bleach do to your septic system? Experts typically recommend avoiding putting bleach through the

A high energy or high-efficiency (HE) washing machine uses less water, and is the best for septic system maintenance in your Warrenton VA home. HE washers use about 28 gallons of water per wash, compared to conventional machines that use over 40 gallons. In addition, HE also uses less energy, which will save you money

The number one cause of the failed septic tank at your Warrenton, VA home is the washing machine. However, there things you can do to prevent the septic tank from failing. Washing machines produce a lot of lint, but your lint trap only catches about 5% of lint, because lint particles are tiny. In fact

Septic inspections in Northern Virginia have revealed problems with low or no bacterial activity in home septic systems. This is becoming a widespread problem, because many cleaning products – for personal care, clothes, or home – are labeled “antibacterial.” Consumers want to make sure that their bodies and homes are really clean, because they believe

While normal use of many medications including over the counter drugs will not harm your septic system, some antibiotics and certain strong medications such as those used in chemotherapy can affect the operation of your system, and increase the need for septic tank cleaning in Northern Virginia. This is because the human body does not

Homeowners with septic tanks in Loudoun County need to be aware that “flushable” wipes should not flushed into your septic system. Instead of flushing the wipes, it’s recommended that these are disposed of in the trash. These wipes have created some serious issues in septic tanks across Loudoun County and elsewhere. Research has shown that

Homeowners who have both water softeners and septic tanks in Loudoun County VA can rest easy about softeners negatively affecting their septic systems. In 2013, the results of a Virginia Tech study reveal that water softeners set to provide with appropriate salt efficiency do not harm septic systems, and in fact, may actually help them.

Septic system maintenance is required to keep your septic system healthy in Northern Virginia. (It is also required by law, if you live in Loudoun County VA.) However, you also need to avoid certain things to keep your septic system healthy. Here are 3 appliances that can ruin your septic system: Hot Tubs Hot tubs

Septic systems rely on a precise procedure to effectively process sewage treatment for Northern Virginia homes and businesses. A malfunctioning system is not only an unlawful environmental and health hazard for your family and neighbors, but also an expensive problem to correct. To keep your septic system functioning properly, you must divert several sources of

Septic system failure occurs when a septic system cannot perform its job of providing effective treatment of household wastewater, or when partially-treated wastewater comes into contact with groundwater. Septic system failure is a messy and expensive ordeal and can typically be avoided through proper system maintenance and inspection. Septic systems can fail for a number

For many people spring represents not just warmer weather and long days but rather an opportunity for a fresh start. This spring, hit the reset button on your septic system. Proper care of your home septic system will not only prolong the life of your system but also ensures the health of you, your family, and your Northern Virginia community.

The majority of failures have to do with design and construction. Almost always, failures can be avoided at the time of construction. The soil is the most important portion of any septic system. Soils will be different in Virginia then they are in Maryland and the soil could be different in Fairfax County then it

Does the waste from your Northern Virginia property run through an onsite septic system? Thousands of Virginian’s throughout Fairfax County, including the town of Centreville, VA, Reston, VA, Herndon, VA, Falls Church, VA, and Vienna, VA rely on septic tank systems to pump and disperse waste from their home. Owning a septic tank system requires

Due to the terrain of Northern Virginia and throughout Fairfax County thousands of families rely on septic tank systems to hold and disperse household wastewater. While these homeowners carry out their regular daily tasks, serious issues may be developing beneath the earth’s surface unbeknownst. Since most of the major components and intricacies of a septic

For systems that are properly designed and constructed, it is much easier then you might think to avoid malfunctions. At SES we have 4 simple steps that you should follow. Do all you can to avoid using excess water! This is perhaps the biggest reason for septic system malfunction. Keep in mind that soil under

It doesn’t matter if you live in Aldie, VA, Front Royal, VA, Berryville or Strasburg, VA. Septic systems can be a royal pain, but if you have a plan for getting it cleaned, and keep your eyes out for signs of a septic issue, you can manage a tank with little trouble. Know the Last

A septic tank wastewater system can contaminate ground water, surface water and your yard with nutrients, bacteria and viruses if it isn’t maintained properly and pumped often enough. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your system continues to function properly, safely and without septic odors. Have your septic system inspected annually. Pump

If you have a septic tank on your Northern, Virginia-area property, you may sometimes find it can produce offensive odors that escape inside the house. This sometimes happens when the water evaporates in the trap of a seldom-used drain such as in a basement floor. You can stop this evaporation by adding a cup of

If you have a septic system instead of a sewer connection in your Northern Virginia home, you know that taking care of your septic system isn’t difficult, when you follow a few basic guidelines: Divert Rainwater From the Septic Drainfield A soggy drainfield won’t absorb and neutralize liquid waste. Plan landscaping, roof gutters and foundation

The most common sewage disposal system widely used today is the septic tank along with a drain field or leach field. If the soil surrounding your Northern Virginia home is suitable, a septic system can usually be installed and will provide many years of hands off sewage disposal. The typical septic tank-drain field system is

Generally, landlords are responsible for major components of the rental property, such as septic tanks. If you are a landlord with a rental home in Warrenton VA, you are responsible for the septic system maintenance of that property in Warrenton, VA Many landlords prefer to take care of landscaping for the property themselves, and spell that out in rental contracts,

Septic tanks are an important part of the sewage disposal system for rural homes in Warrenton VA, and maintenance of a septic system is the homeowner’s responsibility. It’s really important to select a septic tank that is the appropriate size for the household, and that the septic tank is installed properly. Selecting a septic tank in Warrenton VA that is the right size

If septic systems receive the maintenance they need in Warrenton VA, they can last for decades. Many problems can be found quickly, and dealt with easily. Smells coming into your house from the septic system are a warning that you’ve got a problem that needs to be dealt with. Here are a few problems that

SES, the experts in septic system maintenance in Northern Virginia want you to understand some common causes of septic system freeze up. Lack of snow cover – uncompacted snow insulates the septic tank and drainfield. Without a good blanket of snow, frost can go deeper into the ground and freeze your septic system. Compacted snow

Sometimes, septic tanks in Loudoun County VA freeze up due to cold. There are multiple places that the freeze could happen within the septic tank system – and you think that you may have a freeze. What should you do? Call the septic tank experts at SES. And here’s what you should NOT do: Do

Most people don’t know what happens to the waste that is pumped from septic tanks in Loudoun County VA. Where does that stuff go? After septic tanks are pumped out in Loudoun County VA, SES takes the waste to receive further treatment to the Loudoun Water’s Broad Run Wastewater Reclamation Facility. The biosolids (treated residuals

Spring time is a good time for septic tank pumping in Loudoun County VA. There are a few good reasons for it: Spring cleaning products – the bleach and antibacterial products you use around your home can kill the good bacteria in your septic tank. A pump out can give you a fresh start. Flooding

Septic tank pumping at your Northern Virginia home will go a long way to keeping your septic system from freezing. There are a few contributing factors that allow septic systems to freeze: Infrequent use of the septic system (flushing adds heat to the system) Constant low volume water source (furnace condensation drainage, leaking faucet) –

If you are new to owning a home or business with a septic tank, here are 5 things you need to know about septic tank pumping in Warrenton VA. By law, septic tank pumping must be done at least every 5 years by the licensed contractor. Tank, family size, and whether or not you have

There are certain situations when it’s a bad idea to have septic tank pumping done at your Loudoun County VA home; such as when there is: Flooding When the septic tank is flooded, and the flooding is still going on in the area, we don’t advise doing septic tank pumping in Loudoun County VA. Fiberglass

Even with regular septic system maintenance at your Northern Virginia home, you should not flush those “flushable” wipes down the toilet. And here’s why. According to research conducted by multiple universities and Consumer Reports, those “flushable” wipes just don’t break down – in your septic system, or in municipal sewage systems. It’s just like flushing

Home and business owners who neglect septic system maintenance and repair could find themselves paying huge fines and legal settlements. For instance the owner of a nursing home and daycare center in Massachusetts is paying $50,000 to settle allegations with that Commonwealth that she failed to repair and upgrade the deteriorating septic system serving both

An important part of septic system maintenance in Northern Virginia is taking care of your drainfield. One of the ways you can do that, is by preventing drainfield erosion. Erosion is caused by water, when the soil isn’t anchored in some way. A drainfield with no grass or other herbaceous plants will erode – because

Keeping a Northern Virginia septic tank working effectively and efficiently as long as possible is important to many homeowners throughout the Warrenton VA area. Even if you do not let things go to the point of complete septic system failure, replacing a broken septic system is an expense you are likely not interested in either. The expense and the inconvenience will

Flush the toilet, take a shower, wash the dishes and all the water goes from the faucet (or tank) straight in to the septic system. When the water enters the septic system, a septic drain field or leach field, is used to remove the contaminants and impurities from the liquid that comes from the septic tank. The leach field is essentially the disposal

Most water softeners work their magic using salt to treat the water that passes through it, and you probably have heard at some point salt is bad for your septic system. But is this true? The National Sanitation Foundation conducted several studies on this very topic and in the end, the decision was no; sodium, or salt, is not harmful to septic systems. The water

Septic systems function as individual wastewater treatment plants using the soil to treat the wastewater flow. Typically used in areas that are not practical for centralized wastewater treatment systems, such as country settings or even subdivisions with large lots, septic systems are essential for the health of the neighborhood and the environment. Little thought is

Many people don’t understand that private septic systems offer many advantages over public sewer systems. Septic systems provide simple, effective onsite wastewater treatment, as compared to sending waste to a public wastewater treatment plan. Therefore, septic systems allow homeowners to avoid the high cost of sewer lines and allow groundwater to be recharged onsite, making

An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) acts as an alternative to a traditional septic system. ATUs pretreat wastewater by adding air into the tank, thereby breaking down organic matter more efficiently and allowing quicker decomposition of organic solids as compared to traditional septic tanks. Both aerobic systems and septic systems use natural processes to treat wastewater,

Millions of homes in the United States have a danger in their yards that they don’t even recognize. That danger is old septic tanks and cess pools, abandoned when sewer service became available. The ground over these empty tanks can collapse without warning, and whatever or whomever is standing or playing there at the time

In many areas of Northern Virginia that do not have the capability to run public wastewater hookups to homeowners, septic tanks are installed to digest waste that otherwise would go to a treatment facility on a municipal system. Septic tanks are generally made out of concrete, fiberglass or steel and are normally buried outside of

Owning a home comes with many responsibilities that reach far beyond maintaining your investment and paying your monthly bills. As a homeowner, you have a responsibility to your community and the community at large. This rule especially applies to those homeowners who operate septic systems. If a septic system is not properly maintained, homeowners run

Owning a home comes with many responsibilities that reach far beyond maintaining your investment and paying your monthly bills. As a homeowner, you have a responsibility to your community and the community at large. This rule especially applies to those homeowners who operate septic systems. If a septic system is not properly maintained, homeowners run

As man continues to evolve so has his impact on the environment. Many residents and businesses in Northern Virginia (NOVA) rely on septic systems as a way of dispersing waste. If not properly cared for these systems can create harm to the environment. Just because you have county water like many homes in Fairfax, Prince

With the nation’s economy in a slow decline, consumers are beginning to rely heavily on energy efficiency in order to save. For those consumers living in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, a septic system is one of the ways to improve your efficiency. Instead of going through a wastewater treatment plant, septic systems offer an alternative

Some people who are looking to buy a house in the Northern Virginia area are reluctant to consider a home that is not connected to a community sewer. Some have heard horror stories about problems with old-fashioned septic systems. Others are totally unfamiliar with the concept of private waste removal. Although you should inspect them

Even though the last thing most Northern Virginia residents want to think about is the septic tank, many should stop and think about it for a few moments at least – to avoid a lot more thought in the future. A septic tank is an essential part of your home, and without it, life as you know it will change

Septic systems are used in many areas that are unable to access a municipal sewer system, either due to location or new construction. In some situations connecting to a municipal sewer system would not be financially feasible either, making a septic system the obvious choice. A septic system is hidden from view, and when properly maintained, are odorless

The septic system in your Fairfax County VA home begins to fail, you will be better off if you can recognize the symptoms before it is a problem. Since septic systems function as a small wastewater treatment plant, when it fails, you will have a great mess to deal with – and in some cases,

Homes throughout the Northern Virginia region take advantage of the septic system for their home waste needs, but what about an above ground septic tank – is that better for the environment and your home? Most people in the Northern Virginia area do not know much about above ground septic systems, so here is some basic information to help keep you informed. Above ground

Many homeowners know what a septic system is, but many are unfamiliar with the term mound septic system. In an effort to keep our customers throughout the Northern Virginia area informed, we put together this basic information sheet on mound septic systems. A mound septic system is used for aberrant soil conditions, or those soil conditions that do not fall within “normal” or

Most things in life that are designed to make our lives in Northern Virginia easier or more convenient typically require some level of maintenance. The septic system on your property is no different – it must be maintained properly or it likely will fail; and failure means misery. The septic system is designed using a delicate balance of living microorganisms and

Even though homeowners throughout Northern Virginia hope they never have to replace their septic system, it probably will happen at some point – unless of course you take every precaution and maintenance step recommended by professionals. A complete septic system replacement is costly, but you have to force yourself to see beyond the immediate panic of the financial obligation and

What should be considered as individual wastewater treatment plants located at your Warrenton, VA home, septic systems treat waste water using the soil surrounding your home. Septic systems and septic tanks are commonly used in areas that are not connected to a centralized wastewater treatment line such as “city sewer” like rural areas or newly constructed subdivisions. When a home cannot be connected

The importance of regularly and properly maintaining your septic system at your Washington DC area home should be forefront in your mind. Not only is septic system maintenance important for proper function, it also is important for the health and safety of everyone inside the home. In order to properly function, the septic system drains

Northern Virginia homeowners with septic systems must use caution to ensure it functions as intended. Homeowners accustomed to life without a septic system may never think about what is put down the drain, or even through the garbage disposal. These easy tips will keep your septic system – especially your septic tank – working problem free. Keep bleach out of the septic system. Using

Northern Virginia homeowners with a septic tank looking for a reason not to do laundry may have just found one more excuse – it could damage your septic tank. Before you consider the installation of a septic system at your Warrenton, VA home just to avoid washing another load of laundry, using the washing machine is perfectly fine with a septic tank with these tips. Even though clothes dryers

Septic systems should be thought of as individual wastewater treatment plants. Using the soil to treat the wastewater flow, septic systems are usually used in areas that are not connected to a centralized wastewater treatment service – such as “city” sewer. Many homes in rural areas, or even in newly constructed subdivisions with large lots, utilize septic systems for the

When you build a new home in an area of Northern Virginia that does not have an existing sewer system, perc testing must be completed to determine if the area can be built on or not. Perc testing, short for percolation testing, is completed by a professional septic system installation and perc testing company under the guidance and observation of

When a septic tank is installed, most homeowners do not think about replacing the septic tank in the future. Until there is a reason to replace the septic system, most people do not think much about the unsightly materials and waste the septic tank is responsible for unless there unfortunately is no other choice. Proper maintenance of your septic tank can extend

The latest development in outdoor toilet technology, the Enviro Loo – also called the Enviro-Loo – is a non-discharge dry sanitation system that can be used as an alternative to a dry toilet or vault toilet in the outdoors. The Enviro-Loo, manufactured by Clean-up America, is not a composting toilet as other outdoor toilets are. Installed and operational in only one day, the Enviro-Loo can be

Northern Virginia Well Water Your Northern Virginia home’s well water must be regularly inspected and tested for the presence of any chemicals or irritants that may affect the well water quality or the health of those who drink or bathe in your home’s well water. Well Water Testing One such material your well must be tested for is hydrogen sulfide, or

Hard Well Water Thousands of homes and businesses throughout Northern Virginia rely on groundwater, or wells, as their primary or only source of water. Because groundwater is used every day, it must be protected and tested for such elements as bacteria, pesticide, and total hardness. Water hardness is groundwater is based on the amount of calcium

To properly maintain your Reston, Quantico, or Leesburg septic system and lengthen its life, you must take certain measures to ensure its health. Therefore, there are many “don’ts” when it comes to your septic system. Don’t park cars on your drainfield or septic system. Don’t drain water from hot tubs into your septic system. And,

Septic systems require much care both under and above the soil. When landscaping your drainfield, keep the health of your septic system in mind. The correct plants and grass planted on a drainfield can actually help reduce soil erosion, remove moisture, and add nutrients, all benefiting your septic system. Landscaping over your drainfield can also

Did you know that toilet use accounts for a whopping 25 to 30 percent of household water use? If your home operates on a septic system, that 25 to 30 percent of toilet use water can quickly add up into high volumes of wastewater to be processed by your system. Many homeowners with septic tank

Health Departments recommend that people with a septic tank have their system inspected every year. Having your septic system inspected includes getting your sludge and scum levels measured, checking the system’s pipes and mechanisms, and inspecting the drain field to make sure it’s percolating the effluent properly. The average septic tank system usually requires pumping every one to three

If you are purchasing a Fairfax VA home with a septic tank, you need to understand that there may be problems with that septic tank. Here are some red flags you need to be looking for: Garbage disposals on kitchen sinks. This is a really big no-no in a house with a septic system. If you see this in a

If you have a septic tank in Prince William County VA, and have had flooding, you may have some questions and concerns. Flooding of the septic tank will have lifted the floating crust of fats and grease in the septic tank. Some of this scum may have floated and/or partially plugged the outlet tee. Clean up any floodwater in the house without

You can save time and money by taking a few daily precautions that reduce the frequency of pump-outs your septic system will need: To flush or not to flush — Aside from wastewater, toilet paper is the only other thing that should be flushed. Using the toilet to dispose of sanitary products, paper towels, disposable diapers, cigarette

Septic tanks require pump-outs when the solids that accumulate in the tank begin to reach the tank’s storage capacity. You should contact SES about Septic Tank Pumping for your Prince William County VA home, when total solid accumulation is between 30% and 50% of the total capacity. Here’s a checklist of what should happen during the septic tank pumping at your Prince William VA home. Before

Winter can wreak havoc on a vacant home unless it has been “winterized.” Pipes can freeze, cracks can form in the walls, and your septic system could have problems. As part of your regular septic system maintenance, you’ll want to winterize your vacant Prince William, VA home – and you’ll need RV antifreeze and plastic wrap to do it. Here’s

Fall is here, and as the weather begins to get colder in Warrenton, VA, it’s important to remember to care for your septic system – especially septic tank pumping in Warrenton, VA. Here are six tips to help keep your system in working order even during the coldest of seasons. If you don’t remember having your septic tank pumped,

What causes some septic tanks to freeze in the winter here in Northern VA? Septic tanks that are used on a daily basis don’t freeze in Northern VA, unless there is a mechanical problem such as a sagged drain line. If you live here year round, use a good amount of hot water each day – like

You see those commercials that warn you that you need to use a septic system additive product or your septic system will fail. These ads lead you to believe that if you just use their additive product, you won’t need septic tank cleaning in Northern Virginia. The truth is, you still need septic tank cleaning

MYTH: Once a septic tank is installed, it will work forever without maintenance. FACT: Septic tanks – as with all parts of the septic system – will fail without proper maintenance.   MYTH: Septic System additives take the place of having the septic tanks in Northern Virginia pumped. FACT: Expert have found that septic system additives do not keep

If you have been considering a more environmentally sound way to dispose of human waste, there are two very good options: the Enviro-Loo, and the composting toilet. The Enviro-Loo is not a composting toilet. An Enviro-Loo treats and stabilizes human waste through dehydration and evaporation. It first of all separates the liquid from the solid

1. What is the Enviro-Loo Toilet? The Enviro-Loo is a new kind of toilet. It separates the liquid and solid wastes, and then dehydrates and evaporates human waste into an inoffensive and harmless material. Since 1993 approximately over 100,000 Enviro-Loos have been installed worldwide. 2. What’s so great about the Enviro-Loo system? The Enviro-Loo system

There are special septic system maintenance precautions in Fairfax County, VA. These special precautions cover, landscaping, water usage, septic system usage, drainage, and maintenance. Landscape: Vegetation with a shallow root system should be planted to protect the drainfield from soil erosion. Plants such as flowering perennials and annuals, turfgrass, and many groundcovers are unlikely to damage

The Enviro-Loo is a new kind of toilet. It separates the liquid and solid wastes, and then dehydrates and evaporates human waste into an inoffensive and harmless material. Since 1993, approximately over 100,000 Enviro-Loo toilets have been installed worldwide. The Enviro-Loo system can support up to 60 estimated uses per day, and does not use

While Enviro-Loo (Enviro Loo) toilets are low maintenance, but they still do need some maintenance. Enviro-Loo toilets need to be inspected on a regular basis to see how much solid waste is left on the drying plate, and if it needs to be removed; how often is based on usage. It’s recommended that Enviro-Loo toiletsbe inspected on a regular basis

Expecting guests this holiday season? Now is the perfect time to schedule a septic tank pumping if you live in Northern Virginia. The extra guests and increasing water usage can cause problems with your septic system. And nobody wants to be dealing with septic problems during the holidays. You should schedule a septic tank pumping

There are many reasons why lines would freeze to septic tanks in Loudoun County, VA. Infrequent use of the septic system (flushing adds heat to the system) Constant low volume water source (furnace condensation drainage, leaking faucet) – provides water to build ice without benefit of flushing system Septic line installed above or too close

The Enviro-loo provides the right environment for human waste, toilet paper and organic material to break down through a natural process into an inoffensive compost-like material. The Enviro-loo doesn’t require electricity or a hook-up to a sewer or septic system, and keeps waste from polluting drinking water and the environment in general. The Enviro-loo being

Swimming pools and septic tanks should not be in close proximity in Loudoun County VA. When swimming pools are on top of – or too close to – a septic field, it could cause damage to the drainfield, and reduce the ability of the drainfield to absorb effluent. It could also redirect water onto and

Some homeowners experience problems with their septic tanks in Loudoun County VA around the holidays. What causes these problems ? The septic tank needs to be pumped Frozen lines to the septic tank Increased water usage (guests increase the flushing toilets, showers, dishwasher runs, food prep) Food put down a garbage disposal Flushing things that

When there’s cold weather and bad odors, you will probably need some septic system maintenance done at your Loudoun County VA home. Septic smells are caused by sewer gas, a mixture of poisonous and nonpoisonous gases including ammonia, methane, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide. These gases are produced when waste materials decompose in

There are the usual causes of septic tank failures in Warrenton VA – and then there are causes of septic tank failure that you might never have heard of. For instance: Medical conditions: You have probably already heard that no medications should ever be dumped down the toilet, especially if you have a septic tank.

Septic tank pumping is required by law in Loudoun County VA. Septic tanks need to pumped out on a routine basis because it helps prevent poor performance, backups, well contamination, and premature failure. Loudoun County VA has a plan in place to ensure that all septic tanks are pumped out at least once during the

Some folks use the terms septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping interchangeably in Northern Virginia. These are actually two different services. Septic tank pumping is a service where the liquid in your septic tank is pumped off of the top, and the solid waste is left at the bottom. Septic tank cleaning in Northern

Septic tank pumping is required, if you have a home or business with a septic system in Loudoun County VA. However, septic tank pumping is not the only care and maintenance required, if you want to keep your septic system working right. Inspection, cleaning, and other maintenance should be performed by specialists, such as those

Homeowners with septic tanks in Warrenton VA: be careful where you put that pool and the water from it. Research shows that, to prevent problems with drainfields, pools should be placed at least 25 feet away from the drainfield. Put that pool any closer, and you can have the following problems: Damage to the drainfield

If you have regular septic system maintenance at your Warrenton VA home and your system is relatively new, you probably have a septic tank alarm attached to your system. So, what is the septic tank alarm for, and what do you do if the alarm goes off? Let’s remember that your septic system has a

For septic tanks in Northern Virginia to drain and treat effluent effectively, their drainfield soil needs to have certain properties, and there needs to be some erosion control on and around the drainfield. Drainfield soil is assessed by: Texture: This allows us to estimate pore sizes in the soil. The field method is ‘texture by feel’

The spring is an ideal time to do septic system maintenance in Loudoun County VA. That’s because the ground is softer, and it’s easier to pump your septic system and clean your system’s filters. Just like other home maintenance, having septic system maintenance done every 2-5 years will prolong the life of your system. And