Plumbing and Septic Systems: Expert Advice for Virginia Homeowners in 2025
Written by the team at RVA Site Services:
Licensed septic and plumbing specialists serving Virginia homes for over 15 years.
Understanding the Connection Between Plumbing and Septic Systems
When your toilet clogs or your sink drains slowly, your first instinct is to call a plumber. But what if the problem isn’t in your pipes—it’s underground? Many Virginia homeowners are surprised to learn how closely their plumbing and septic systems are connected.
At RVA Site Services, we specialize in both. In this guide, we’ll explain how these two systems work together, what problems to watch for, and when to call a septic tank professional instead of a general plumber.
Plumbing vs. Septic Systems: What’s the Difference?
Plumbing Systems
Purpose: Carries water and waste to and from your home
Location: Inside the home
Common Problems: Leaks, clogs, low pressure
Septic Systems
Purpose: Treats and disposes of wastewater underground
Location: Outside, typically in the yard
Common Problems: Tank overflows, backups, drain field failure
Your plumbing system moves water from fixtures (sinks, tubs, toilets) to the drains. It ends where your septic system begins—typically at the main sewer line that exits your house. From there, waste flows into the septic tank, where it’s treated and released into the soil through a drain field.
When Plumbing and Septic Systems Work Together (and Break Together)
It’s easy to think of plumbing and septic systems as separate—but in truth, they’re part of the same ecosystem. A septic issue can cause widespread plumbing problems in your home, even if your pipes are perfectly fine.
Here’s a real example:
One Richmond homeowner called us about gurgling toilets and water backing up into the bathtub. They assumed it was a blocked pipe. But when we investigated, the septic tank hadn’t been pumped in over 7 years. It was full—and sending pressure back into the home’s plumbing system.
Septic Tank Plumber vs. General Plumber: Who Do You Really Need?
Here’s a breakdown:
Call a General Plumber if:
- Only one fixture (sink, toilet) is clogged
- You see leaks or dripping faucets
- There’s no odor or backup outside
Call a Septic Tank Professional if:
- Multiple drains are backing up
- You smell sewage inside or outside
- The yard has wet spots or pooling water
- Your septic tank hasn’t been pumped in 3+ years
RVA Site Services employs technicians trained in both systems. No finger-pointing. No misdiagnosis.
Plumbing Issues That Might Be Caused by Septic Problems
Sometimes, it looks like a plumbing issue—until you dig deeper (literally). These are red flags:
- Toilet gurgles when other water is used
- Bathtub fills with dirty water after laundry
- Grass is unusually green or soggy over your tank
- Sewer smell in your kitchen or bathroom
All of these symptoms point to possible septic failure, not just a clogged pipe.
What Are Septic Tank Plumbing Services?
Septic tank plumbing services go beyond drain cleaning. Here’s what we offer at RVA:
- Septic tank inspection using digital cameras
- Tank pumping to clear out waste buildup
- Mainline jetting to remove septic sludge
- Trenchless pipe repair to avoid digging up your yard
- Emergency backups handled 24/7
We don’t just “snake the drain”—we solve the entire problem from home to soil.
Why Homeowners Across Virginia Trust RVA Site Services
- Licensed & Insured septic professionals
- Serving Richmond, Chesterfield, Glen Allen, Midlothian & more
- Fast response times and honest pricing
- 100+ 5-star reviews from local homeowners
- All-in-one team: septic + plumbing = no delays
Our trucks are equipped with full-scale septic gear. No subcontractors. No surprises.
Routine Maintenance Saves You Thousands
We’ve seen it time and again: a simple $300 septic pump-out could have saved someone a $7,000 replacement. That’s why we recommend:
- Annual plumbing checks
- Septic tank inspections every 2–3 years
- Pumping every 3–5 years depending on tank size and household usage
Need help remembering? Sign up for RVA’s free reminder service or book a service today.
Final Thoughts
Your plumbing and septic systems are deeply connected—and if one fails, the other usually follows. Understanding the warning signs and choosing a team that can handle both is the best way to protect your home.
Need expert help?
Call RVA Site Services today or schedule your service online to get ahead of your next emergency.
What’s the difference between plumbing and septic systems?
Plumbing systems handle the flow of water inside the home, while septic systems treat and dispose of wastewater outside the home. Plumbing includes pipes, faucets, and drains, whereas septic systems include tanks and drain fields.
Who do I call if I have both plumbing and septic problems?
If you're experiencing issues that involve both your home's plumbing and septic system, it's best to call a company like RVA Site Services that specializes in both. This ensures accurate diagnosis and complete repairs without the guesswork.
What are signs my plumbing issue is actually a septic problem?
Common signs include multiple drains backing up, gurgling toilets, sewer smells indoors, and wet or soggy areas in your yard. These point to a septic issue rather than a basic plumbing clog.
Are general plumbers trained to fix septic tanks?
No, general plumbers typically aren't trained or equipped to service septic tanks. Septic systems require specialized tools, inspections, and knowledge. Always hire a certified septic tank professional.
How often should I get my plumbing and septic systems inspected?
Annual plumbing inspections and septic system checks every 2–3 years are recommended. RVA Site Services offers bundled maintenance packages for added convenience and cost savings.
