Alternative onsite sewage systems (AOSS) are constructed differently than traditional septic tank systems, and require their own schedule for septic tank pumping in Loudoun County VA and elsewhere in Virginia.
A traditional septic system has a pump, septic holding tank, and a drainfield. In places that a cannot use the traditional system, alternative onsite sewage systems are used. The reasons a AOSS may be used instead of a traditional septic tank system may include shallow water tables, shallow depth to rock, soils with low permeability, or soils with high clay content.
AOSS are complex systems with more components than traditional septic tank systems, and these vary in how the waste is treated and dispersed. Alternative onsite sewage systems may include aerobic treatment units, fixed media filters, low pressure distribution systems, drip distribution systems, spray irrigation systems, and elevated mounds.
AOSS depend on electric power to run, and are reactive to external conditions, including weather, wastewater flows and strength. Household cleaners, inappropriate food waste, and medicines expelled into the sewage waste can also cause problems with alternative onsite sewage systems.
Alternative onsite sewage systems are most sensitive to failure in the first few years of use. For that reason, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality suggest establishing a relationship with a qualified AOSS inspection and maintenance company, like SES Mid Atlantic, LLC.
With traditional septic systems, septic. tank pumping is required at least every five years in Loudoun County, VA. Due to their sensitivity to failure, homeowners with AOSS have a more frequent schedule to adhere to. They are required by law to have their alternative onsite sewage systems inspected and have necessary maintenance performed on a yearly basis. Some hefty fines are imposed on homeowners who forgo the inspection, and their wallets will take a huge hit, when they have to replace components of an AOSS due to neglecting maintenance.
For more information about traditional septic tank pumping or alternative onsite sewage systems in Loudoun County, VA, please contact the experts at SES Mid Atlantic, LLC. The highly-regarded professionals at SES are fully licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia, to evaluate, install, inspect and maintain traditional and AOSS.