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Q:
What types of STS are allowed in Delaware County?
A:
Under current rules, several types of systems are allowed. These
include the “traditional” leachfield type systems, mound systems,
and drip irrigation systems. There is no county wide ban on any
type of system. The soil conditions on each lot determine what
type of system will best serve that particular property.
Q:
Are there items that should not be flushed when I have a STS?
A: YES! Do not flush items such as coffee grinds, dental
floss, disposable diapers, kitty litter, cigarette butts, paper
towels, feminine hygiene products, condoms, or any fats, greases,
or oils. Additionally, do not put toxic chemicals such as paints,
thinners, varnishes, or pesticides into your STS. All of these
items can disrupt the biological function of your system.
Q:
How often should I have my septic tank pumped?
A:
Pumping frequency will vary depending on the number of people in
the home and the amount of water being used. Routine inspections
can help determine if it is time to have your system pumped.
Typically, for a family of four, tanks should be pumped every 3 to
5 years.
Q:
Why do some types of systems require a maintenance contract?
A:
Certain types of systems may contain one or more mechanical
components, including aerators, pumps, and filters, that need
routine maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly. The
more mechanical components a system has, the more “parts” there
are that could break and cause the system to fail. Regular
maintenance on these types of systems can catch a problem before
it becomes serious.
Q:
I am not the original owner. How do I know what type of system I
have and where it’s located?
A:
DGHD has records of systems that date back into the 1950s. You
can call our office at 740-368-1700 and a sanitarian will try to
locate any records that may exist. Although it is sometimes
difficult to back track these records, we will do our best to find
any information we can.
Q:
I am adding on to my house, or making another addition or change
to my property and was told I need Health Department approval.
Why?
A:
Health Department approval is required in these situations to
ensure both that the current STS is functioning properly AND that
the addition or change will not adversely effect the existing STS
or any area that was set aside as a replacement area. A
sanitarian will come out to the property to do an inspection and
prepare a letter and packet of information that will be given to
the owner. The fee for this service is $100.
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