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Avatar for Sila Heating, Cooling and Plumbing

Sila Heating, Cooling and Plumbing

4.64(
2,119
)
Approved Pro

Sila Heating, Cooling and Plumbing

4.64(
2,119
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
1989 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Live Your Most Comfortable Life with a Company You Trust. We offer Same Day Service and Next Day Installation! Sila has been the center of delighting homeowners since 1989, with our team of engineers, certified technicians, and system designers that are proud to deliver the highest level of expertise in the HVAC industry. Whether it’s a repair, replacement, installation, or service, we have an unwavering commitment to keeping you and your family comfortable and safe — season after season. We guarantee satisfaction and are proud to have earned over 7,000 “A” ratings on Angie’s List and its prestigious Super Service Award!

"They charged $98 to come give me an estimate for swapping our a shower valve cartridge, which was fine, but the pricing they provided was completely unreasonable, $1,000. They were unwilling to provide any detail for the price. I ended up buy the part myself for $30 and replaced it in 30 minutes."

Tom A on October 2024

Live Your Most Comfortable Life with a Company You Trust. We offer Same Day Service and Next Day Installation! Sila has been the center of delighting homeowners since 1989, with our team of engineers, certified technicians, and system designers that are proud to deliver the highest level of expertise in the HVAC industry. Whether it’s a repair, replacement, installation, or service, we have an unwavering commitment to keeping you and your family comfortable and safe — season after season. We guarantee satisfaction and are proud to have earned over 7,000 “A” ratings on Angie’s List and its prestigious Super Service Award!

"They charged $98 to come give me an estimate for swapping our a shower valve cartridge, which was fine, but the pricing they provided was completely unreasonable, $1,000. They were unwilling to provide any detail for the price. I ended up buy the part myself for $30 and replaced it in 30 minutes."

Tom A on October 2024


"I will preface this review by saying that I work as a general contractor (with regular interaction with mechanical contractors), work in the service and sales industry (as a personal trainer), and am a business owner (yes, three separate jobs in three separate industries). I say the above because I have the credibility to be able to write a review like this. On 10/3/23 I discovered that my AC (an Amana 3 ton, 36,000 BTU, R410a split system) was not blowing cool enough air to meet thermostat settings. As the original installation of the system was performed by Snell Heating & Air Conditioning [on 1/6/12], I decided to use them for the service call.  The technician (Franco) arrived on 10/4/23 within his scheduled time slot. Franco was transparent and clearly explained the process. Within minutes he was able to identify the source of the problem (the evaporator coil within the indoor air handling unit had frozen indicating a refrigerant leak). He presented me with three options: 1) refill the refrigerant at $715 per four gallons; 2) do a leak check to identify the source of the leak and replace the component from which the leak is originating (i.e. the coils at the outdoor condensing unit, the evaporator coil at the indoor air handling unit, or the line sets) for ~$7,000 and possibly higher; or 3) replace the entire system at anywhere from $18,000-$35,000. This is when I realized the 'sales pitch' was going to start. You see review readers, companies like Snell and others (that have been gobbled up by private equity firms and/or larger companies) no longer operate as a 'small local family business' where integrity, honesty, and doing what is best for the customer is the priority. Snell (which was acquired by Horizon in 2020) now operates as a giant selling machine. These types of businesses have large overhead, extensive marketing costs, training costs, fleet costs, insurance costs, uniform costs, IT costs, and much more that all need to be accounted for in their pricing. They simply cannot operate as such a large business if these expenses are not passed down to the consumer...and frankly, most consumers will happily pay it (as is evidenced by the hundreds of positive reviews). However, an educated consumer can be dangerous for these types of companies. Let me expand on what I mean here. For example, R-410a refrigerant costs <$400 for 25 lbs or <$15/lb (Snell is charging close to $200 per pound). An Amana evaporator coil costs ~$600 (Snell is charging close to $7,000). I won't even begin to tell you how much of a markup they are putting on a brand new HVAC system (it is astronomical). It is understood that their prices include installation, travel, warranty, and all of the aforementioned overhead costs, however, within minutes of their departure I found several small residential HVAC contractors that quoted the same items for fractions of the cost of Snell. Let me be clear, Franco was professional, courteous, and patient. He was an ideal employee for this type of business (a commission-based business where sales are the priority). However, the bottom line is this, Snell is part of the new wave of larger residential HVAC contractors where maximizing profit is the most important thing...and, you know what, I get it. As the old saying goes, "don't hate the player, hate the game". This is where we are in America - products/appliances/gadgets/devices becoming obsolete and having shorter and shorter life spans and businesses caring less and less. I am not some disgruntled 'Harry Homeowner' It is simply inexplicable to me that a system that was installed by Snell only 11 years ago (and just out of the ten year warranty period) must already be replaced. My hats off to David Snell and their entire team - they run a well oiled machine but I simply will not pay the type of costs they are charging."

Frank H on October 2023

Family owned & operated. Financing available. Credit cards. All work done by experienced professionals to ensure consistent high quality. Award winning company at your service.

"I will preface this review by saying that I work as a general contractor (with regular interaction with mechanical contractors), work in the service and sales industry (as a personal trainer), and am a business owner (yes, three separate jobs in three separate industries). I say the above because I have the credibility to be able to write a review like this. On 10/3/23 I discovered that my AC (an Amana 3 ton, 36,000 BTU, R410a split system) was not blowing cool enough air to meet thermostat settings. As the original installation of the system was performed by Snell Heating & Air Conditioning [on 1/6/12], I decided to use them for the service call.  The technician (Franco) arrived on 10/4/23 within his scheduled time slot. Franco was transparent and clearly explained the process. Within minutes he was able to identify the source of the problem (the evaporator coil within the indoor air handling unit had frozen indicating a refrigerant leak). He presented me with three options: 1) refill the refrigerant at $715 per four gallons; 2) do a leak check to identify the source of the leak and replace the component from which the leak is originating (i.e. the coils at the outdoor condensing unit, the evaporator coil at the indoor air handling unit, or the line sets) for ~$7,000 and possibly higher; or 3) replace the entire system at anywhere from $18,000-$35,000. This is when I realized the 'sales pitch' was going to start. You see review readers, companies like Snell and others (that have been gobbled up by private equity firms and/or larger companies) no longer operate as a 'small local family business' where integrity, honesty, and doing what is best for the customer is the priority. Snell (which was acquired by Horizon in 2020) now operates as a giant selling machine. These types of businesses have large overhead, extensive marketing costs, training costs, fleet costs, insurance costs, uniform costs, IT costs, and much more that all need to be accounted for in their pricing. They simply cannot operate as such a large business if these expenses are not passed down to the consumer...and frankly, most consumers will happily pay it (as is evidenced by the hundreds of positive reviews). However, an educated consumer can be dangerous for these types of companies. Let me expand on what I mean here. For example, R-410a refrigerant costs <$400 for 25 lbs or <$15/lb (Snell is charging close to $200 per pound). An Amana evaporator coil costs ~$600 (Snell is charging close to $7,000). I won't even begin to tell you how much of a markup they are putting on a brand new HVAC system (it is astronomical). It is understood that their prices include installation, travel, warranty, and all of the aforementioned overhead costs, however, within minutes of their departure I found several small residential HVAC contractors that quoted the same items for fractions of the cost of Snell. Let me be clear, Franco was professional, courteous, and patient. He was an ideal employee for this type of business (a commission-based business where sales are the priority). However, the bottom line is this, Snell is part of the new wave of larger residential HVAC contractors where maximizing profit is the most important thing...and, you know what, I get it. As the old saying goes, "don't hate the player, hate the game". This is where we are in America - products/appliances/gadgets/devices becoming obsolete and having shorter and shorter life spans and businesses caring less and less. I am not some disgruntled 'Harry Homeowner' It is simply inexplicable to me that a system that was installed by Snell only 11 years ago (and just out of the ten year warranty period) must already be replaced. My hats off to David Snell and their entire team - they run a well oiled machine but I simply will not pay the type of costs they are charging."

Frank H on October 2023


Avatar for DB's Plumbing & Drain

DB's Plumbing & Drain

4.84(
185
)
Approved Pro

DB's Plumbing & Drain

4.84(
185
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 95% of Angi customers
Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers
2008 years of experience

FOR FASTEST RESPONSE, PLEASE CALL (703) 810-7267. The fully-trained and professional team at DBs Plumbing and Drain always say what they are going to do and do what they say. Because of this, they have a less than 1% call back rate and offer a customer satisfaction guarantee on every job they take on. They are consistent with their pricing and will never overcharge for services performed. They are also consistent in their services, always going above and beyond and offering the same level of service, no matter what the price. Their goal is to build customers for life and they take this job very seriously. When you need plumbing help in Woodbridge, Prince William, Fairfax, and Stafford Counties and all of Northern Virginia, call on DBs Plumbing and Drain.

"I recently had a fantastic experience with Nick from DB’s Plumbing & Drain for a leaking pipe issue in my home. From start to finish, their service was exceptional! DB’s team was prompt, courteous, and professional. They arrived on time, assessed the problem quickly, and explained the repair process in a way that was easy to understand. The plumber worked efficiently, fixing the leak with high-quality materials, and even took the time to check for other potential issues to prevent future problems. The pricing was fair, and there were no hidden fees. I am so grateful for their expertise and attention to detail. I highly recommend DB’s to anyone needing reliable plumbing services!"

Christine F on September 2025

FOR FASTEST RESPONSE, PLEASE CALL (703) 810-7267. The fully-trained and professional team at DBs Plumbing and Drain always say what they are going to do and do what they say. Because of this, they have a less than 1% call back rate and offer a customer satisfaction guarantee on every job they take on. They are consistent with their pricing and will never overcharge for services performed. They are also consistent in their services, always going above and beyond and offering the same level of service, no matter what the price. Their goal is to build customers for life and they take this job very seriously. When you need plumbing help in Woodbridge, Prince William, Fairfax, and Stafford Counties and all of Northern Virginia, call on DBs Plumbing and Drain.

"I recently had a fantastic experience with Nick from DB’s Plumbing & Drain for a leaking pipe issue in my home. From start to finish, their service was exceptional! DB’s team was prompt, courteous, and professional. They arrived on time, assessed the problem quickly, and explained the repair process in a way that was easy to understand. The plumber worked efficiently, fixing the leak with high-quality materials, and even took the time to check for other potential issues to prevent future problems. The pricing was fair, and there were no hidden fees. I am so grateful for their expertise and attention to detail. I highly recommend DB’s to anyone needing reliable plumbing services!"

Christine F on September 2025


Avatar for F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical

F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical

4.68(
580
)
Approved Pro

F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical

4.68(
580
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 92% of Angi customers
Recommended by 92% of HomeAdvisor customers
1981 years of experience

F.H. Furr provides residential products and services in the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical business. They put their customers first and provide them with quality products from trained technicians. F.H. Furr has committed to the highest degree of professional development and training in the industry, to work diligently in exceeding every expectation of the client in need. Based out of Manassas, Va., the company has expanded throughout Northern Va., Rockville, Md., Richmond, Va., and Georgetown De. Whether you need plumbing, heating, cooling, or electrical repairs or replacements, call on F.H. Furr for "Absolutely The Best" service!

"Great service. Very thorough. Called them again to do an HVAC service. Very satisfied with FH Furr. I highly recommend this company."

Elizabeth H on August 2024

F.H. Furr provides residential products and services in the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical business. They put their customers first and provide them with quality products from trained technicians. F.H. Furr has committed to the highest degree of professional development and training in the industry, to work diligently in exceeding every expectation of the client in need. Based out of Manassas, Va., the company has expanded throughout Northern Va., Rockville, Md., Richmond, Va., and Georgetown De. Whether you need plumbing, heating, cooling, or electrical repairs or replacements, call on F.H. Furr for "Absolutely The Best" service!

"Great service. Very thorough. Called them again to do an HVAC service. Very satisfied with FH Furr. I highly recommend this company."

Elizabeth H on August 2024


Avatar for RightNOW Plumbing

RightNOW Plumbing

4.74(
944
)
Approved Pro

RightNOW Plumbing

4.74(
944
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
2014 years of experience

At RightNOW Plumbing, we specialize in water heater repair & installation. We are Northern Virginia's premier water heater experts and the area's leading Tankless installer. We have established ourselves as the go to company for quality work and outstanding customer service. Whether it is a repair, installation or conversion to tankless, we will leave you with a smile when the job is done. We are ready to take on any water heater project and deliver results you will be proud of. We know that it takes more than just materials, tools, and skill to deliver outstanding results. That is why we are committed to unsurpassed customer service. We will not be satisfied until you are, that is our promise.

"Outstanding service. First to reply to our request for service. "Johno" quickly diagnosed our problem and researched to see if warranty was still in effect. Fair pricing with discount for military service. Will keep RightNow Plummer in mind for future plumbing services."

Juan O on November 2025

At RightNOW Plumbing, we specialize in water heater repair & installation. We are Northern Virginia's premier water heater experts and the area's leading Tankless installer. We have established ourselves as the go to company for quality work and outstanding customer service. Whether it is a repair, installation or conversion to tankless, we will leave you with a smile when the job is done. We are ready to take on any water heater project and deliver results you will be proud of. We know that it takes more than just materials, tools, and skill to deliver outstanding results. That is why we are committed to unsurpassed customer service. We will not be satisfied until you are, that is our promise.

"Outstanding service. First to reply to our request for service. "Johno" quickly diagnosed our problem and researched to see if warranty was still in effect. Fair pricing with discount for military service. Will keep RightNow Plummer in mind for future plumbing services."

Juan O on November 2025


Avatar for Home Breakthrough LLC

Home Breakthrough LLC

4.55(
179
)
Approved Pro

Home Breakthrough LLC

4.55(
179
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
2004 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Home Breakthrough is a local, family owned home remodeling business. Francisco and Honika Victoriano, combine old-word craftsmanship with contemporary building techniques to create extraordinary new living spaces. They take great pride in the home renovation work they do. The remodeling contractors at Home Breakthrough have a strong reputation for delivering high quality construction and home renovation projects, working with diligence and honesty. The Victorianos have built their remodeling business & reputation over the years by providing excellent work at highly competitive prices. 14-15 workers. Cost is determined by the job. Free design consultations. No travel charges. No service charges. May contact through email. Award winning .

"I have been using the team at home breakthrough for years. At this point they fully remodeled my basement including adding a new bathroom/wet bar. As well as a huge overhaul of my main floor bath and laundry room. The quality of their work is outstanding. I also love their quote structure. They start with a labor number and give you an idea of what materials will cost but it’s essentially a chose your own adventure on how high end you want to go on features etc and they are very helpful to guide you on the way as well as have great experts to point you to on cabinets, fixtures, tile, countertops etc to help you achieve your vision. Look forward to having them back for my next project!"

Scott A on March 2025

Home Breakthrough is a local, family owned home remodeling business. Francisco and Honika Victoriano, combine old-word craftsmanship with contemporary building techniques to create extraordinary new living spaces. They take great pride in the home renovation work they do. The remodeling contractors at Home Breakthrough have a strong reputation for delivering high quality construction and home renovation projects, working with diligence and honesty. The Victorianos have built their remodeling business & reputation over the years by providing excellent work at highly competitive prices. 14-15 workers. Cost is determined by the job. Free design consultations. No travel charges. No service charges. May contact through email. Award winning .

"I have been using the team at home breakthrough for years. At this point they fully remodeled my basement including adding a new bathroom/wet bar. As well as a huge overhaul of my main floor bath and laundry room. The quality of their work is outstanding. I also love their quote structure. They start with a labor number and give you an idea of what materials will cost but it’s essentially a chose your own adventure on how high end you want to go on features etc and they are very helpful to guide you on the way as well as have great experts to point you to on cabinets, fixtures, tile, countertops etc to help you achieve your vision. Look forward to having them back for my next project!"

Scott A on March 2025


Avatar for JES Foundation Repair

JES Foundation Repair

4.24(
338
)
Approved Pro

JES Foundation Repair

4.24(
338
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
1993 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Established in 1993, JES stands as a trusted subsidiary of Groundworks, a distinguished family of companies renowned for delivering unparalleled solutions. From foundation repair, structural reinforcement, crawl space encapsulation, basement waterproofing, and concrete lifting, we provide comprehensive services tailored to meet your needs. With our coverage spanning across the state of Virginia and Maryland, we bring our local expertise closer to you. JES proudly holds accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. Drawing from decades of collective experience, extensive industry knowledge, and ongoing specialized training, our dedicated team is poised to safeguard your residential property against water damage, concrete sinking, and foundation instability. At JES, we are not just builders; we are guardians of your peace of mind. Contact us today for a FREE estimate! 410516000653 (DC) | 50637 (MD) | WV027473 (WV)

"JES was very professional and easy to work with from the beginning to the end of our basement project. Eric was very knowledgeable, and exceedingly helpful in answering our questions and making us feel comfortable with the choices we made. The crew that did the work were quick, clean, and extremely efficient. We were very happy with everything they did!"

Andrea M on October 2025

Established in 1993, JES stands as a trusted subsidiary of Groundworks, a distinguished family of companies renowned for delivering unparalleled solutions. From foundation repair, structural reinforcement, crawl space encapsulation, basement waterproofing, and concrete lifting, we provide comprehensive services tailored to meet your needs. With our coverage spanning across the state of Virginia and Maryland, we bring our local expertise closer to you. JES proudly holds accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. Drawing from decades of collective experience, extensive industry knowledge, and ongoing specialized training, our dedicated team is poised to safeguard your residential property against water damage, concrete sinking, and foundation instability. At JES, we are not just builders; we are guardians of your peace of mind. Contact us today for a FREE estimate! 410516000653 (DC) | 50637 (MD) | WV027473 (WV)

"JES was very professional and easy to work with from the beginning to the end of our basement project. Eric was very knowledgeable, and exceedingly helpful in answering our questions and making us feel comfortable with the choices we made. The crew that did the work were quick, clean, and extremely efficient. We were very happy with everything they did!"

Andrea M on October 2025


Avatar for Len The Plumber Heating & Air, LLC

Len The Plumber Heating & Air, LLC

4.08(
130
)
Approved Pro

Len The Plumber Heating & Air, LLC

4.08(
130
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
1996 years of experience
Emergency services offered

Len The Plumber, LLC. is a leading plumbing and drain company serving Northern Virginia. Our certified professional plumbers are available same day to assist residential customers in Alexandria City, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Fredericksburg City, Loudon County, Manassas City, Prince William County, and Stafford County. Our knowledgeable plumbers have years of experience dealing with a wide variety of plumbing issues including plumbing repairs, drain cleaning, water heaters, well systems, heating systems, sewer, water, and gas lines. We’re open 7 days a week with no extra charge on evenings or weekends!

"Great service"

Kathy M on November 2025

Len The Plumber, LLC. is a leading plumbing and drain company serving Northern Virginia. Our certified professional plumbers are available same day to assist residential customers in Alexandria City, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Fredericksburg City, Loudon County, Manassas City, Prince William County, and Stafford County. Our knowledgeable plumbers have years of experience dealing with a wide variety of plumbing issues including plumbing repairs, drain cleaning, water heaters, well systems, heating systems, sewer, water, and gas lines. We’re open 7 days a week with no extra charge on evenings or weekends!

"Great service"

Kathy M on November 2025


Avatar for Michael & Son Services, Inc.

Michael & Son Services, Inc.

3.96(
168
)
Approved Pro

Michael & Son Services, Inc.

3.96(
168
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
1976 years of experience
Emergency services offered

Michael & Son is a Home services company specializing in Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning & Remodeling! We have been servicing the metropolitan area for over 30 years. Licensed Bonded & Insured. Customer Service is our TOP PRIORITY!

"Job completed on time."

Sherri C on August 2024

Michael & Son is a Home services company specializing in Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning & Remodeling! We have been servicing the metropolitan area for over 30 years. Licensed Bonded & Insured. Customer Service is our TOP PRIORITY!

"Job completed on time."

Sherri C on August 2024


Autumn Electric Co Inc

4.95(
386
)

Autumn Electric Co Inc

4.95(
386
)
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers

Autumn Electric Co. Inc. is a full-service company that has been providing a wide range of electrical services to thousands of residents and businesses in Vienna since 1989. With a team of highly skilled electricians, including a Master Technician, the company has been featured in Washingtonian Magazine as “Best Electricians” and one of the “Home Contractors You Can Trust”. You can also find great reviews about their services on Yelp, Angie’s List, as well as in the Consumer Checkbook. Whether you need a simple lighting installation or a complex electrical service in Vienna, let the professional electricians at Autumn Electric Co. Inc. handle all your electrical needs. They provide a free phone or in-home estimate on any services. 10 employees. No subs. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Va license - 2705-004773, See website for additional service area.

"My wife and I recently had the satisfying experience of engaging the professional electrician services of Autumn Electric Co., Inc. Our recent basement remodeling project involved very complex overhead lighting redesign and delicate, state-of-the-art, fixture installations. Autumn Electric's Dave Barsotti (Master Electrician) worked hand-in-hand with our creative custom lighting designer (Dave Konstantin). Barsotti followed the detailed design plans to perfection, while readily accommodating any and all of our "last minute" personal design changes. Barsotti, representing the spirit of Autumn Electric, showed the utmost concern to please his customer and do the job right, at the exact price agreed. Throughout decades of working with dozens of electricians, in dozens of projects all over this country, my wife and I have never encountered a more experienced, skilled, respectful or honest electrician and company than Dave Barsotti and Autumn Electric Co., Inc. In our opinion, you too will enjoy "Satisfaction Guaranteed." Fred V."

Alfred V on October 2023

Autumn Electric Co. Inc. is a full-service company that has been providing a wide range of electrical services to thousands of residents and businesses in Vienna since 1989. With a team of highly skilled electricians, including a Master Technician, the company has been featured in Washingtonian Magazine as “Best Electricians” and one of the “Home Contractors You Can Trust”. You can also find great reviews about their services on Yelp, Angie’s List, as well as in the Consumer Checkbook. Whether you need a simple lighting installation or a complex electrical service in Vienna, let the professional electricians at Autumn Electric Co. Inc. handle all your electrical needs. They provide a free phone or in-home estimate on any services. 10 employees. No subs. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Va license - 2705-004773, See website for additional service area.

"My wife and I recently had the satisfying experience of engaging the professional electrician services of Autumn Electric Co., Inc. Our recent basement remodeling project involved very complex overhead lighting redesign and delicate, state-of-the-art, fixture installations. Autumn Electric's Dave Barsotti (Master Electrician) worked hand-in-hand with our creative custom lighting designer (Dave Konstantin). Barsotti followed the detailed design plans to perfection, while readily accommodating any and all of our "last minute" personal design changes. Barsotti, representing the spirit of Autumn Electric, showed the utmost concern to please his customer and do the job right, at the exact price agreed. Throughout decades of working with dozens of electricians, in dozens of projects all over this country, my wife and I have never encountered a more experienced, skilled, respectful or honest electrician and company than Dave Barsotti and Autumn Electric Co., Inc. In our opinion, you too will enjoy "Satisfaction Guaranteed." Fred V."

Alfred V on October 2023

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Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

A septic tank is an underground container that collects and holds wastewater until it’s sufficiently filtered and broken down. It treats wastewater by separating waste so the leftover liquid can travel into the drainfield where the soil and gravel eventually filter and purify it. This process naturally eliminates bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.

Talking with a septic pro before planting trees near your tank is best to ensure the roots won’t interfere with your septic system. However, there is an easy way to figure out where to plant a tree—but you’ll need to know how tall it can get when it’s fully grown. For instance, if the tree can reach 50 feet, plant it at least 50 feet from your septic system.

A septic alarm can sound different depending on your system, but often, it’s a loud, repetitive beeping noise or a steady, high-pitched noise. It may also be a loud buzzing noise. To confirm the noise is your septic alarm, check your alarm box for a red light. You can also silence your alarm with a red button or switch on the box. Look for something that says “Test” or “Mute.”

It only takes a few days for a septic tank to fill with water after a pro has pumped it. This is completely normal, and the water is a vital part of your septic system’s wastewater treatment process. The water that fills your tank days after pumping is not the same as the tank being filled with waste. You shouldn’t have to pump your septic system more than once every three to five years unless you have a tank that’s too small for your home’s water output or there’s a problem with your leach field. 

There are three layers of wastewater in a septic tank: scum (solid waste that floats to the top of the wastewater), liquid (the relatively clean liquid wastewater in between the two other layers), and sludge (solid waste that falls to the bottom of the wastewater). The buildup of sludge is one of the main reasons septic tanks need to be pumped. If the tank is more than 1/3 of the way full with a combination of sludge and scum, it’s time to call a pro for pumping.

The Fort Myer, VA homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

What do you need done? We’ll find top pros.
  • 🌱 "Mow a small front yard"
  • 🛠 "Fix a leaking pipe under the sink"
  • 🏠 "Repair shingles on an asphalt roof"