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As we wrap up our first year of Septic Matters, we are grateful that you have read this newsletter and are taking steps to protect your septic system, the environment, and people’s health.
Looking ahead to 2026, the newsletter will continue to be full of septic tips and stories that are insightful, enjoyable, and shareable.
As always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions or comments.
Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con nosotros a la siguiente dirección de correo electrónico mejackson@kingcounty.gov o llame al 206.263.0547.
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News from the Field highlights real-life septic situations from King County community members and the OSS Program.
“My septic alarm went off, and I shouldn’t have ignored it.” Ignoring a septic alarm is a common reaction – the sound can be as loud as a smoke detector, and people often silence and forget about it. Jane recently shared that when her septic alarm went off, she just turned it off and continued with her busy day. But, “Don’t forget to call a septic professional right away… like I did!” Jane suggests.
Jane is a resident in King County that shares her “septic failure” stories with her neighbors. Watch Jane’s full story here about her septic alarm experience.
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Why does a septic alarm go off?
There are various reasons for a septic alarm to go off— and many issues are easy to fix. What’s most important is that you call a septic maintainer immediately to diagnose and fix the problem.
Usually, a septic alarm goes off when the water level in the tank is too high. If there is too much water going into the tank or there is clogging issue in pipes from the tank to the distribution box, the water level rises. This high water level may be resolved by checking for a dripping sink or toilet, getting the tank pumped, or checking other components for functionality.
If this symptom is ignored, sewage may overflow or back up into your house. So, when your septic alarm goes off, don’t ignore it — call a septic maintainer right away!
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During the holiday season when people gather, your septic system may experience higher water usage. Does your septic system welcome a sudden increase in water usage from toilet flushing, showers, and dishes on dishes? NO!
Increased water usage from showers, toilets, dishwashing, or laundry may impose more stress on your system. Of course, throwing a party or having guests periodically won’t cause your system to suddenly fail. However, your septic system may be stressed when a lot more water enters the system, especially during rainy winter season as it may be difficult for the drainfield to treat the wastewater in the wet soil.
Here are some tips to put less stress on your septic system when you host a gathering:
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Reduce fat, oil, and grease entering the drain and wipe excess food waste away.
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Spread out water use by running laundry/dishwasher/shower at different times in the day.
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Check your appliances or faucets/pipes for any leaks in advance.
Have a happy and septic-safe holidays!
The Vashon-Maury Island Community Septic Team teamed up with King County several years ago to share resources with residents on septic systems. This Community Septic Team takes a "neighbors talking to neighbors" approach, allowing residents to access resources and solutions to septic system questions more easily than having to reach out to King County.
Watch our new video featuring the Vashon-Maury Island Community Septic Team's incredible work!
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Are you:
- Planning on septic system maintenance, repairs, or replacement?
- Getting connected to a public sewer system after your septic system stops working?
If you answered "yes" to either of the above questions, you may be eligible for financial assistance!
See our list of financial assistance programs for your septic repairs, replacement, or routine maintenance.
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Public Health’s Environmental Health Services Division is now using a new permitting system, called the Public Health Permit Center.
This online services portal includes on-site sewage system applications, plumbing and gas piping permitting/ plan review, and more. Learn more on our webpage: kingcounty.gov/PublicHealthPermits.
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