If you’ve ever wondered whether your home uses a septic system or a municipal sewer line, Greensboro Septic Pros can help. We often get calls from people unsure of which system they have, what maintenance it requires, or who to call when something goes wrong. Knowing the difference matters, especially when it’s time for septic pumping or septic cleaning. Keep reading to find out how these systems work and how to tell which one is keeping your household running behind the scenes.
Where Your Wastewater Goes Depends on the System
Septic systems and sewer systems both do the same essential job of removing wastewater from your home, but they handle it in very different ways. If you’re connected to a municipal sewer system, all your drains from the sink, shower, toilet, and washer flow into one main pipe that carries everything away from your home. That wastewater travels through underground city-owned pipes to a central treatment facility. The city is responsible for the system once it leaves your property, including any clogs, backups, or treatment. A septic system works independently. Wastewater from your home flows into a buried septic tank on your property. Solids settle at the bottom of the tank, while liquids flow into a leach field or drain field, where they gradually filter into the soil. Your septic system is private. That means it's your responsibility to maintain it through regular septic pumping, inspections, and repairs.
How to Tell if You Have a Septic System or Sewer Connection
If you're unsure what kind of system you're on, the easiest place to start is your water bill. If your bill includes a line for sewage fees, you're likely on a municipal sewer system. If there's no sewage charge, and especially if you live in a rural area, you're probably using a septic system. Another clue is location. Homes in city or suburban neighborhoods are usually connected to a public sewer. Rural or undeveloped areas, where running long sewer lines isn't practical, tend to use septic systems. If you're on a larger piece of land, especially outside city limits, a septic system is more likely. You can also look for signs on your property. Septic tanks are usually buried, but access lids may be visible in your yard. In some cases, you might see a patch of grass that stays greener than the rest, which can indicate the location of your drain field. Local health departments might also have records on septic permits, which you can request. If you’re still not sure, a quick call to a septic company or city utility office can clear things up. A qualified septic service can inspect your property and tell you what kind of system you're working with.
Maintenance Looks Very Different for Each System
Once you know what kind of system you have, your next step is knowing how to care for it. Municipal sewer systems are largely hands-off. You’re responsible for the plumbing in your home and the main sewer line leading from your house to the street, but anything beyond that is the city’s responsibility. If there’s a blockage or backup in the public sewer line, city crews handle the repairs. Septic systems require more active maintenance. Tanks need to be pumped every three to five years, depending on usage. Without regular septic pumping, solids can overflow into the drain field and cause expensive damage. Septic cleaning is also important because it keeps the tank functioning properly and prevents buildup from becoming a hazard. Pay attention to warning signs like slow drains, sewage smells, or water pooling near your drain field. These usually mean it’s time to call a septic service. Ignoring them could lead to system failure, contamination of groundwater, or flooding in your home. A professional septic company can inspect your tank, measure sludge levels, and recommend the right time for cleaning or pumping.
What to Expect If You Switch Homes or Build New
If you’re buying a new home or building on a property, the choice between sewer and septic may already be made for you. Homes in city areas normally have mandatory sewer connections. In new developments or rural properties, a septic system may be your only option. There are pros and cons to both. Sewer systems are convenient and rarely require attention, but you pay for them through monthly fees. Septic systems don’t come with usage charges, but you’ll have to stay on top of maintenance, including septic cleaning and septic pumping. When building on a rural property, a percolation test will be required to determine if the soil is suitable for a septic system. You’ll also need to install a tank and drain field at your expense. Permits are needed, and installation must be handled by a professional. Once it’s in place, routine visits from a septic company in High Point are needed to keep things working safely. If you’re buying a home with an existing septic system, make sure to request an inspection before closing. Repairs can be expensive if a system has been neglected, and you’ll want a clear report from a qualified septic service provider.
Do You Need Professional Septic Services?
If you’re on a septic system, staying ahead of problems means working with a reliable septic company. If you suspect a problem, don’t wait. Call for septic service before it becomes a giant mess. Greensboro Septic Pros offers reliable septic services. Whether you’re due for septic pumping or need a full inspection, our team has the tools, knowledge, and professionalism to get it done right. Call today to schedule your appointment.
