Full-Service Septic Tank Company in Lexington, SC
General Septic Tank FAQ
1. How often should a septic tank be pumped?
Most septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on household size, water usage, and tank capacity. Regular pumping removes accumulated solids, helping prevent backups, costly repairs and premature system failure.
2. What are signs my septic system needs service?
Common warning signs include:
Slow drains throughout the home
Sewage odors inside or outside
Standing water or soggy areas near the drain field
Gurgling plumbing fixtures
Sewage backing up into sinks or toilets
3. How can I extend the life of my septic system?
The best way to extend the life of your septic system is through proper maintenance and everyday habits. Have your tank pumped every 3-5 years, fix plumbing leaks promptly, spread out water usage by doing laundry over several days instead of all at once, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste, and keep vehicles, heavy equipment, and deep-rooted trees off your drain field.
4. Do you provide emergency septic services?
Yes. We offer emergency septic pumping on weekends and holidays for situations that can’t wait.
5. Do you work with residential and commercial septic systems?
Yes. We provide septic services for both residential and commercial properties. Our experienced team has the equipment and expertise to handle jobs of all sizes.
6. Why is regular septic maintenance important?
Regular septic maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and can significantly extend the life of your septic system. Pumping your tank every 3-5 years removes accumulated solids before they can reach and damage the drain field. Routine maintenance also gives your septic professional the opportunity to identify small issues before they become major problems, helping keep your system working properly for years to come.
7. What should never be flushed into a septic system?
- Wipes (even “flushable” ones)
- Grease and cooking oils
- Feminine hygiene products
- Paper towels
- Harsh chemicals or bleach
- Paints, solvents, and pesticides
- Cat litter
8. How long does a septic system last?
Average life expectancy is 15-20 years. However with more permeable soils, properly maintained septic system can often last 30+ years. While no system lasts forever, routine maintenance plays a big role in maximizing its lifespan. Pumping every 3-5 years, conserving water by spacing out laundry loads instead of doing them all in one day, fixing leaks promptly, and protecting your drain field from heavy traffic and tree roots can all help your system last for decades.
9. Can I use a garbage disposal with a septic system?
We do not recommend using a garbage disposal with a septic system. Food waste adds unnecessary solids to your tank, causing it to fill more quickly and increasing the need for more frequent pumping. Throwing food scraps in the trash or composting them is a better way to help protect your septic system.
10. Why is my septic alarm going off?
If your septic alarm is going off it means the water level in your pump chamber is too high. This can be caused by a problem with the pump, float, or electrical power. We would be happy to send a technician out to diagnose and repair.
11. Should I use septic additives?
In most cases, no. A properly functioning septic system does not require additives to work effectively. However, we do have septic additives available for purchase for customers who prefer to use them.