FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

​​

• Most residential septic tanks will be 1,250 gallons or less.  While larger tanks do exist (1500g or 1800g) they are uncommon. To keep it simple, our flat-rate price includes the removal of 1,250 gallons which covers most folks! 

​

• Your septic tank should be pumped every 2-3 years under normal usage.  If you're unsure when the tank was last pumped or it's been more than 4 years, we recommend having the tank pumped. Your home's water usage is ultimately what determines how often your tank will need pumped.  Families with high water usage (lots of baths, laundry, water softener, etc...) would need their septic pumped more frequently than that of a 2 person household with lower water usage.  If you use a garbage disposal, we recommend pumping annually. 

​

• If you are experiencing slow or gurgling drains, sewage back up, foul odors outside the home, or pooling water around your septic system, it is likely you are in need of having your septic tank pumped.  

​

• If your septic system was installed prior to 2011 it is unlikely that your system has a filter.  Systems installed after 2011 should have a septic filter or screen and it should be cleaned every 6 months. 

​

• For the most detailed information about your system, contact your local health department to obtain a copy of your home's as-built drawings.  In general, your septic tank is usually 10-25 feet from the house in a straight line from the cleanout or where the main drain exits.  In newer systems you will see an access lid in your yard.  Access lids vary in appearance, but generally are a green or black round lid that may be flat or dome shaped.   If you do not see an access point or lid, your lid is likely buried and will need to be located & dug up in order to pump your septic tank. 

​

• If you can see an access cap or lid in your yard, no digging is necessary.  Above ground access lids vary in appearance, but newer systems will generally have a green or black round lid that may be flat or dome shaped. If you do not have above ground access, the lid will need to be located and dug up in order to pump the septic tank.   We do offer dig up service for an additional fee. 

​

• Your septic tank will almost always appear to be "full" when you lift the lid and take a peak.  The water level should be approximately 2" below the inlet pipe as it enters the tank, and you should see a layer of scum (live bacteria) growing on the surface. The "sludge" at the bottom of the tank is what's being controlled when you have the tank pumped.  Too much sludge will compromise your system.  If you observe clear or grey water without a layer of scum (live bacteria) on the surface, or the water level is above the inlet pipe your system is not functioning properly. 

​

• Only flush toilet paper.  Never flush wet wipes, tampons, condoms, or medication down your toilet.  While some wet-wipes advertise being "septic-safe"there is no wipe that is truly safe for your septic system as they do not decompose quickly and can clog up your system. Medications, such as antibiotics can hinder the growth of good bacteria essential to keep your system running properly.

​

• Most of the products on the market today can enhance bacterial growth as advertised, but they do not replace the need to have your septic pumped regularly. These products will not be successful in repairing a failing system. 

​

• ​If your septic system isn't working properly, you may notice slow drains, gurgling pipes, sewage backups or foul odors inside your home even after having the tank pumped.  Outside, look for soggy spots or standing water near the tank.  A strong sewage smell outdoors is another red flag.  If toilets won't flush properly or you need frequent pumpings, your system may be failing.  

​