faqS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

An On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF), commonly known as a septic system, is a wastewater treatment system used to treat and dispose of sewage on the property where it is generated. These systems are typically used in areas that are not connected to a centralized municipal sewer system. An OSSF can include components such as a septic tank, treatment units, and a drainfield or spray area. The type of system required depends on site conditions like soil type, property size, and local regulations. Proper design, permitting, installation, and maintenance are essential to ensure the system functions safely and effectively.

If your property is not connected to a municipal or community sewer system, then yes, you will need an On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF), commonly known as a septic system, to manage wastewater from your home or building. This includes wastewater from toilets, sinks, showers, washing machines, and other plumbing fixtures. The specific type of septic system required depends on your site’s conditions, including soil characteristics, available space, and local regulatory requirements. A professional site evaluation is the first step in determining what type of system is appropriate for your property.

The cost of a septic system can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of system required, site conditions, local regulations, and installation complexity. In general:

  • Conventional systems may range from $5,000 to $12,000.

  • Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) or other advanced systems can cost $10,000 to $20,000 or more, especially when additional components like spray irrigation or drip systems are needed.

  • Site evaluation, permitting, and design fees are typically separate and may add to the overall cost.

It’s important to have a professional site evaluation performed to determine what system is appropriate for your property and to obtain an accurate estimate based on your specific conditions.

Septic systems can be costly due to the combination of engineering, materials, labor, and regulatory requirements involved in their design and installation. Key factors that drive up the cost include:

  1. Site-Specific Design Needs
    Every property is different. Soil type, slope, lot size, groundwater levels, and setback distances all affect the type of system that can be installed. Complex sites often require more advanced (and expensive) treatment systems.

  2. Engineering and Permitting
    A licensed professional must conduct a site evaluation and design a system that meets Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and local standards. These upfront professional services add to the total cost.

  3. System Type and Components
    Basic gravity systems are generally more affordable, but many sites require aerobic treatment units (ATUs), pumps, timers, spray heads, or drip irrigation systems, all of which increase both equipment and installation costs.

  4. Labor and Installation
    Proper installation requires skilled labor and heavy equipment. Tasks may include excavation, trenching, electrical work, plumbing, and precise system calibration.

  5. Regulatory Compliance
    Permitting fees, inspections, and mandatory maintenance contracts (especially for aerobic systems) add both one-time and ongoing expenses.

While the cost may seem high, a properly designed and installed septic system is a long-term investment in your property’s value, health, and safety. Cutting corners can lead to system failure, fines, or costly repairs later.

A well-designed and properly maintained septic system can last 20 to 40 years or more, depending on the type of system, soil conditions, usage, and upkeep. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Conventional systems (with septic tank and drainfield): typically last 25–30 years, with proper care.

  • Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs): may require more frequent maintenance but can also last 20–30 years with consistent service.

  • Components like pumps, timers, or spray heads: may need replacement every 5–10 years depending on usage and conditions.

System longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance, such as:

  • Pumping the septic tank every 3–5 years

  • Avoiding disposal of grease, wipes, and harsh chemicals

  • Keeping heavy vehicles and structures off the system area

  • Maintaining required inspections and service contracts (especially for aerobic systems)

Routine care can significantly extend the life of your system and help you avoid expensive repairs or replacements.

Yes, a maintenance contract is required for certain types of septic systems, particularly aerobic treatment units (ATUs) and other non-standard or advanced treatment systems in Texas.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) mandates that owners of these systems maintain a valid contract with a licensed maintenance provider. The provider performs routine inspections, testing, and maintenance to ensure the system is functioning properly and not posing a health or environmental risk.

Key points:

  • Conventional systems (with a septic tank and gravity drainfield) do not typically require a maintenance contract, though periodic pumping and inspections are strongly recommended.

  • Aerobic systems usually require 3–4 inspections per year under a maintenance contract.

  • The maintenance contract must be filed with the permitting authority as part of the OSSF approval process.

Having a maintenance contract not only keeps you in compliance but also helps extend the life of your system and avoid costly repairs.

In some cases, yes, but only under specific conditions. In Texas, homeowners may be allowed to maintain their own aerobic treatment unit (ATU) if permitted by the local regulatory authority and only after completing the required training.

Key requirements:

  • Homeowner Maintenance Certification: You must complete a state-approved training course on aerobic system maintenance and receive certification.

  • Local Approval: Some counties or permitting authorities do not allow homeowner maintenance, even with certification. Always check with your local permitting office first.

  • Recordkeeping and Reporting: Certified homeowners must document all maintenance activities and submit inspection reports to the permitting authority, just like a licensed provider would.

While maintaining your own system may save money, it also comes with legal responsibilities and potential risks. Most homeowners choose to hire a licensed maintenance provider to ensure compliance, avoid fines, and protect system performance

Most septic tanks should be pumped every 3 to 5 years, but the exact frequency depends on several factors:

  • Household size — More people = more wastewater and solids.

  • Tank size — Larger tanks can hold more before needing service.

  • Water usage habits — High water usage or frequent use of garbage disposals may require more frequent pumping.

  • System type — Some advanced systems may require more routine inspections and maintenance.

Failing to pump your tank regularly can lead to backups, unpleasant odors, system failure, and expensive repairs. Regular pumping helps extend the life of your system and keeps it functioning safely and efficiently. A licensed professional can evaluate your usage and recommend the ideal pumping schedule for your property.

Yes, you can have a garbage disposal with a septic system, but it’s important to understand the implications.

Using a garbage disposal increases the amount of solids and organic waste entering your septic tank, which can:

  • Shorten the time between pump-outs (you may need to pump every 1–3 years instead of 3–5).

  • Increase the risk of system clogs or failure if not properly maintained.

  • Affect treatment efficiency, especially in aerobic systems or systems with limited capacity.

If you plan to use a garbage disposal:

  • Use it sparingly and avoid putting grease, coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, or starchy foods down the drain.

  • Pump the tank more frequently to prevent solids from overflowing into the disposal field.

  • Consider adding a filter or larger tank during system design to accommodate the extra load.

While garbage disposals are allowed, many septic professionals recommend composting or disposing of kitchen waste in the trash instead — especially on properties with smaller or older systems.

Yes, absolutely! Modern water softeners are designed to be compatible with septic systems. When properly selected, installed, and maintained, a water softener will not cause issues for your septic system.

Historically, there were some concerns regarding water softeners and septic systems, primarily related to:

  • Excess Water Volume: Older, less efficient water softeners could discharge a significant amount of water during their regeneration cycle, potentially adding a burden to the septic system.

  • Salt Content (Sodium Chloride): There were worries that the salt in the brine solution could negatively impact the beneficial bacteria in the septic tank or affect the soil in the drainfield.

However, these concerns have largely been addressed by advancements in water softener technology and best practices:

  • High-Efficiency Softeners: Today’s water softeners are significantly more efficient. They regenerate based on demand (only when necessary) and use far less water and salt per cycle compared to older models. The small additional volume of water from regeneration is generally negligible compared to the daily wastewater from a typical household.

  • Minimal Impact of Salt: Studies have shown that the amount of sodium entering the septic system from a properly operating water softener is typically not enough to disrupt the natural bacterial balance within the tank. The bacteria are quite resilient.

  • Potassium Chloride Alternative: For those who wish to avoid sodium altogether, or if local regulations are a concern, water softeners can be regenerated using potassium chloride, which is beneficial for soil and plants.

Best Practices for Seamless Coexistence:

To ensure optimal performance and peace of mind, consider these best practices:

  • Choose a High-Efficiency Model: Opt for a demand-initiated water softener that only regenerates when needed, minimizing water and salt usage.

  • Proper Sizing: Ensure your water softener is correctly sized for your household’s water usage and the hardness of your water.

  • Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for adding salt/potassium and routine maintenance.

  • Consult Local Regulations: While generally compatible, it’s always a good idea to be aware of any specific local codes or regulations (like those from TCEQ in Texas) that might apply, though these typically focus on overall septic system design rather than specific appliance compatibility for modern softeners.

In conclusion, you can confidently install a water softener with your septic system. By choosing a modern, efficient unit and following basic maintenance, you’ll enjoy the benefits of soft water without compromising your septic system’s health.

To keep your septic system functioning properly and avoid costly repairs, avoid putting the following items down your drains:

  • Grease, fats, and cooking oils — These can clog pipes and build up in the septic tank.

  • Coffee grounds — They do not break down easily and can accumulate in the system.

  • Non-biodegradable items — Such as plastic, diapers, sanitary products, wipes (even “flushable” wipes), and paper towels.

  • Medications and chemicals — Including paints, solvents, pesticides, and cleaning products with harsh chemicals that can kill beneficial bacteria in the tank.

  • Large amounts of bleach or antibacterial soaps — These can disrupt the natural bacterial balance needed for waste breakdown.

  • Food scraps and fibrous materials — Like celery, corn husks, and onion skins, which decompose slowly.

  • Cat litter — It doesn’t break down and can cause blockages.

  • Disposable diapers or sanitary products — These should always go in the trash.

Proper disposal habits help maintain your septic system’s health and longevity. When in doubt, throw it in the trash rather than down the drain!

No, septic systems generally do not require any special additives or treatments to function properly. Many products advertised on TV claim to improve or “clean” your septic system, but most are unnecessary and sometimes even harmful.

Here’s why:

  • Natural bacteria in your septic tank are sufficient to break down waste when the system is used properly.

  • Additives can disrupt the natural bacterial balance or cause solids to break down too quickly, potentially clogging the drainfield.

  • The best way to maintain your system is regular pumping, conserving water, and avoiding harmful substances going down the drain.

Unless specifically recommended by a licensed septic professional for your unique system, you can safely skip septic tank additives and rely on proper maintenance instead.

It IS not recommended to plant a garden over your drain field or in your spray field. Vegetables and herbs grown in these areas could be exposed to harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients from wastewater, making them unsafe to eat. Additionally, tilling or digging in these areas can damage pipes and disrupt the proper function of your system. If you would like to landscape the area, stick to shallow-rooted grasses or native plants that won’t interfere with system performance.