Septic Dye Testing 

Septic dye testing is not a functionality test, and will tell a testor nothing about how or how well teh system works.  Why do it then?

 It is important to get one if you have a septic system, but it should be clear of the purpose.  In the state of Pennsylvania a septic system is not allowed to leak or discharge affluent outside the system.  In short water can not make its way to streams or any property.  Additionally, older systems are not grandfathered.

Buying a house with a 50 year old septic system?  It may be working well as installed, and will probably fail a septic dye test.  updating of the system can be very expensive, and as a new home owner you don't want to be charged with that bill if the system is found to be non-compliant in the future.  When the sewage control officer finds out your system is non-compliant you may be forced to upgrade the system.  And the official can fail a system at any time.  If has been know for an official to be ispecting a new system  when they discover that there are older systems on the same street.  At that point the whole street fails, and everybody must pay.

A septic dye test is very simple and affordable considering the alternative.  Dye is placed in a toilet and sink.  At that point 350 to over 500 gallons of water are run through the system.  The inspector then walks the proper for signs of an external discharge.  If one is found then the inspector waits to see if dye laced affluent comes from the pipe.  When it does the system fails, and the headaches begin.