FAQ

What is a septic system?

A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system that is generally comprised of a septic tank and an absorption drain field.

what is the difference between a septic system and a holding tank?

Septic systems are self-contained structures used for the treatment of wastewater. Holding tanks are simply temporary receptacles that store sewage and wastewater until it can be removed and disposed of at a wastewater treatment facility. Holding tanks must be pumped and cleaned much more frequently than septic system tanks.

what is a mound system?

A mound septic system, consisting of a septic tank, a dosing chamber, and an earth mound, is an alternative to the drain field of the traditional septic system. It is beneficial in areas that are prone to septic system failure due to soil problems or a high seasonal water table. Liquid waste travels from the septic tank into the dosing chamber and is then distributed into the mound at a metered rate. Final treatment of the wastewater occurs in the soil underneath the mound.

HOW LARGE IS MY SEPTIC TANK?

The average residential septic tank is approximately 1,000 gallons. Typical dimensions for a tank this size are 8’ long x 4.5’ wide x 6’ tall. However, this can vary greatly depending on what type of septic system is installed.

HOW CAN I FIND MY SEPTIC TANK?

The easiest way to locate a septic tank is to check property records from your local health department. A blueprint or drawing of its location will often be on file. If your house is on a basement or crawlspace, try to locate the main wastewater line coming out of the home. This will usually lead directly to the tank. You can also check for external drain cleanouts near the house (typically a 3” PVC pipe with a cap extending vertically out of the ground) that are connected to the main wastewater line. Once you have a general idea of the tank’s location, a long metal rod, or probe, can be carefully pushed into the ground to feel for the top of the tank. When all else fails, an electronic locator can help determine the tank’s location. A small device called a sonde is flushed down the toilet and emits a frequency that can be pinpointed by a receiver.

DO YOU INSTALL SEPTIC SYSTEMS?

No, we do not install or repair septic systems. For a list of certified installers, please see the Monroe County Health Department’s website here.

WHAT IS A SEPTIC TANK RISER?

A septic tank riser is an extension that is added to a septic tank. Its purpose is to raise the height of the septic tank lid so that it meets government codes and provides easier access for septic tank cleaning.

DO YOU UNCOVER A SEPTIC TANK LID?

No, we do not uncover or dig out septic tank lids. We encourage potential customers to contact a certified installer to add a riser to the septic system so that future maintenance can be completed without additional difficulty and cost.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE MY SEPTIC TANK CLEANED?

Septic tank cleaning frequency can differ depending on several variables, such as the number of members in a household, amount of appliances and drains hooked into the system, as well as lifestyle habits. A good estimate to ensure proper function of a septic system is to have it cleaned every 1 to 3 years.

WHAT SHOULD I NOT FLUSH DOWN THE DRAIN?

Its easier to think of what should be flushed: human excrement and toilet paper. Some items that should never be introduced to your septic system include: sanitary wipes (even if they are “flushable”), contraceptives, cotton balls or swabs, medications, paper towels, cigarette butts, Band-Aids, dental floss, cat litter, disposable diapers, and all types of fats, oils, or grease.

HOW CAN I MAINTAIN MY SEPTIC SYSTEM?

The biggest component of septic system maintenance is regular cleanings. It is never good to wait until you have a problem to have your septic cleaned. This can lead to unnecessary stress and costly repairs. Between cleanings, additives such as Rid-X can be used to activate natural bacteria and enzymes which in turn break down household waste.

How often should i have my grease trap/interceptor cleaned?

The City of Bloomington requires outside grease interceptors to be cleaned a minimum of every 90 days, while inside grease traps must be cleaned a minimum of every 30 days. Not only does regular maintenance reduce the amount of FOG (fats, oils, grease) entering the city sewer, it also helps prevent kitchen backups and odors.

WHAT IS A LIFT STATION?

Sewage lift stations are temporary containment facilities used when gravity does not allow wastewater to easily flow to its destination. When this occurs, lift stations pump wastewater and sewage to higher elevations.

DO YOU EMPTY CAMPER OR RV TANKS?

Unfortunately, this is not a service that we provide due to the high power of our vacuum pumps. Damage to the camper holding tank could occur during the pumping process.

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT ARE ACCEPTED?

We accept credit/debit cards, ACH transfers, Apple Pay, cash, or check.