Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a home or commercial septic system and have questions about your drainfield or septic system? Our experts answer the most common septic system questions from across Central Virginia.
Septic System Design

What factors are considered in designing a septic system?
We evaluate soil conditions, property size, water usage, local regulations, and the layout of the land to create an effective septic system design.
How long does the septic system design process take?
The design process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the site and the required permits.
What information do I need to provide for a septic system design?
You’ll need to provide property details, including soil tests, site plans, and any existing plumbing layouts.
Can you design a septic system for a property with challenging terrain?
Yes, our team has experience designing systems for various terrains, including sloped or rocky areas, ensuring optimal functionality and compliance.
Are your septic system designs compliant with local regulations?
Absolutely. We ensure that all designs meet or exceed local codes and regulations to guarantee a safe and legal installation.
Septic Tank Installation

What is involved in the septic tank installation process?
The process includes site assessment, excavation, tank placement, piping installation, and system testing. Our team manages every step to ensure compliance with local regulations and optimal performance.
How do I know if my property needs a new septic tank?
If your current system is outdated, frequently failing, or cannot meet your property's needs, a new septic tank may be required. Our experts can evaluate your existing system and recommend the best course of action.
What factors affect the cost of septic tank installation?
Costs depend on factors such as tank size, soil conditions, property size, and any additional features or requirements. We provide a detailed estimate after assessing your property and needs.
What maintenance is required after installing a new septic tank?
Regular maintenance includes periodic inspections, pumping the tank every 3-5 years, and avoiding the disposal of harmful substances. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and efficiency of your system.
How do I choose the right size septic tank for my property?
The size of the septic tank depends on the number of occupants, water usage, and soil conditions. We perform a detailed assessment to determine the appropriate size and design for your specific needs.
Drainfield Repair & Drainfield Replacement

How do I know if I need drainfield repair or replacement?
Common signs of needing drainfield repair or drainfield replacement include slow drainage, unpleasant odors, wet spots in your yard, and frequent septic backups. Our experts can assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
What causes drainfield failure?
Drainfield failure can occur due to age, poor maintenance, overuse, or clogs from solids and grease. Soil compaction or root intrusion can also impact its functionality.
Do I need drainfield repair, or does my drainfield need to be replaced?
In some cases, minor drainfield repairs can resolve the issue. However, if the septic system is severely damaged or outdated, a full drainfield replacement may be necessary. Our team will evaluate and provide recommendations.
Will drainfield repair or replacement damage my yard?
Our team takes care to minimize disruption to your property during the drainfield repair or replacement process. After the work is completed, we can restore the area to its original condition.
How long does a new drainfield last?
A properly installed and maintained drainfield can last 20-30 years or more, depending on usage, soil quality, and regular care.
Regular Septic Maintenance & Septic Inspections

How often should I have a septic inspection?
It’s generally recommended to have a septic inspection at least once a year. However, the frequency can vary based on usage, septic system size, and local regulations. Regular septic inspections help catch potential issues early.
What does a septic system inspection involve?
A typical septic inspection includes checking the condition of the septic tank, drainfield, and related components. The technician will look for signs of wear, clogs, leaks, and other issues to ensure everything is functioning properly.
How can regular septic maintenance benefit my septic system?
Regular septic maintenance helps prevent unexpected failures and costly septic drainfield repairs by addressing minor issues before they become major problems. It also extends the lifespan of your septic system and ensures efficient operation.
How can I prepare for a septic inspection?
Prepare for your septic inspection by ensuring easy access to your septic tank and septic system components. It’s helpful to provide information about your system’s history and any issues you’ve noticed. Clearing the area around the septic tank can also facilitate a smoother septic inspection.
How do I know if my septic inspection was thorough?
A thorough septic inspection should include checking all septic system components, such as the septic tank, drainfield, and distribution box. The technician should provide a detailed report of their findings, including any recommendations for septic drainfield repairs or maintenance.
Septic Tank Pumping Services

How often should I have septic tank pumping performed?
Septic tank pumping should typically be performed every 3 to 5 years, depending on the size of the septic tank and the number of people using the system. Regular septic tank pumping prevents system failure and backups.
What are the signs that my septic tank needs pumping?
Signs that septic tank pumping is required include slow drains, gurgling sounds in your plumbing, foul odors near the septic tank, and standing water around your drainfield.
Is septic tank pumping a messy process?
No, professional septic tank pumping services are designed to be clean and efficient. We use specialized equipment to do septic pump outs and dispose of waste with minimal disruption to your property.
What should I do if I need emergency septic tank pumping?
If you need emergency septic tank pumping, contact us immediately for same-day service. We’ll prioritize your needs with 24 hour emergency septic services to prevent further issues.
How can I avoid emergency septic tank pumping?
Regular septic maintenance and timely septic tank pumping help prevent emergencies. Avoid flushing non-degradable items. For 24-hour emergency septic tank pumping in Caroline County, Stafford County, Richmond County, and other areas of Central Virginia, count on us to handle any septic problems!
Real Estate Septic Inspections

What is a real estate septic inspection?
A real estate septic inspection is a thorough evaluation of a property's septic system, including the tank, drainfield, and associated plumbing, to ensure it is functioning properly and meets regulatory standards.
Why do I need a real estate septic inspection when buying or selling a property?
A real estate septic inspection identifies potential issues before closing, protecting buyers from unexpected repairs and helping sellers demonstrate the system's condition to prospective buyers.
What happens during a real estate septic inspection?
During the real estate inspection, our technicians will assess the septic tank's condition, check for leaks, examine the drainfield for proper drainage, and review the overall septic system to ensure it complies with local regulations.
What should I do if the real estate septic inspection uncovers problems?
If issues are found in the real estate septic inspection, our team will provide a detailed report with recommended septic drainfield repairs and solutions. You can use this information to negotiate repairs or adjust the sale price as needed.
How much does a real estate septic inspection cost?
The cost of a real estate septic inspection can vary based on the septic system's complexity and location. Contact us for a detailed quote tailored to your property's septic system.
24 Hour Emergency Septic Services

What qualifies as septic emergencies?
Septic emergencies include situations like sewage backups, leaks, or complete septic system failure that require immediate attention to prevent further damage or health risks.
What should I do if I need emergency septic services?
First, avoid using water in your home or business to prevent further backups. Then, contact us immediately for assistance.
Are your 24 hour emergency septic service available every day of the week?
Yes, our 24 hour emergency septic services are available around the clock to ensure that you receive the help you need when you need it.
Will I need to evacuate my home during septic emergencies?
In some cases, it may be necessary to evacuate, especially if there’s a risk of sewage exposure. Our team will provide guidance based on the specific situation.
What can I do to prevent septic emergencies?
You can prevent septic emergencies by getting regular septic maintenance, being mindful of water usage, and avoiding flushing non-biodegradable items.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're in need of a septic inspection or regular septic maintenance, Drainfield Solutions is here to help. Get in touch today for reliable septic services you can trust.



