FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
This page contains answers to the questions homeowners have had about their STEP System. If there are things you don't understand or you have a general STEP System question please eMail any of the STEP Association Board Members and we will provide an answer then post it on this FAQ page for everyones benefit.
This page contains answers to the questions homeowners have had about their STEP System. If there are things you don't understand or you have a general STEP System question please eMail any of the STEP Association Board Members and we will provide an answer then post it on this FAQ page for everyones benefit.
- What is a STEP system and who is responsible for it?
- What does my STEP system include?
- What does the STEP Association system include?
- Do I have responsibilities for my STEP septic system?
- Do I have to perform repairs on my STEP system?
- What should I do if I have wastewater surfacing, have a shutoff valve issue or notice a leak in the system?
- How can I maintain my system to keep my costs and my sewer bill costs down?
- Can wipes, paper towels or other hygiene products be flushed?
- I do not know where my septic tank lids are located. How do I find them and why is it important to know where they are?
- My Riser Lid is cracked and it needs to be replaced. Where can I get a replacement lid?
- Can landscape plantings and tree roots damage my septic system?
- Should homeowners use RID-X brand or other enzymes or septic tank additives to help reduce solids in their system?
- Do I need to have my tanks pumped like I did when I had a typical septic system? If so, how often does it need to be pumped and who should I call to perform the work?
- I had my septic tanks pumped and they told me a “baffle” was missing. What is a baffle and is it important?
- Do STEP members receive Discount Pricing from Service Providers for septic related services?
- Are there fees or reports that Pierce County requires when I have my septic tank pumped or STEP system serviced/repaired?
- Tacoma Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD) sent me a letter stating that some aspect of my STEP system needs attention. What should I do?
- Where does our wastewater go to be treated?
- Why does the City of Gig Harbor care about wastewater hydrogen sulfide concentrations?
- Some homeowners have had infiltration problems. What was done to correct them?
- How are infiltration and inflow (I&I) problems detected?
- I am away and am contacted about a septic alarm at my house—what should I do?
- My STEP System Alarm is going off, what do I do?
- I am selling my property. What are the requirements for septic/STEP system inspection or service?