Frequently Asked Questions

1.) Should have the septic tank pumped regularly?

Yes, by pumping the septic tank out you are removing the sludge that drops to the bottom allowing the greywater to exit into the leach fields.

2.) How often should I have the septic tank pumped?

We recommend the septic tank be pumped every 3-5 years. Pumping is determined by the size of the tank and how many people live in the home. Please call us to help you determine your recommended pumping schedule.

3.) What are septic tanks made of?

Most common septic tanks are made of concrete and fiberglass.

4.) What all is done when I have the septic tank pumped out?

Most septic tanks are buried beneath the soil about 1 foot to 4 feet deep. Once the concrete or fiberglass plugs are exposed that are on the septic tank we will pump out the tank. The baffle will be checked and cleaned, the leach fields will be tested and we will have you run water in the home down the lines to make sure they are free-flowing.

5.) What are the common charges when pumping a septic tank?

The most common charges are pumping fees, county disposal fees, and possibly labor if you choose to have us dig up the access lids on top of the septic.

6.) How much does pumping a septic cost?

In Southern Arizona, the typical pumping fees usually average $500.00 depending on what size of the tank is being pumped and where your residence is located. Most labor rate charges are around $88.00 an hour.

7.) How should I take care of my septic system?

You should only put the natural waste and toilet paper into the septic tank. Do not put sanitary wipes, baby wipes, kitty litter, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, oil/grease, or yeast into the system. Putting those items in will cause you to have problems with the system resulting in pumping out much more frequently. Also, avoid putting food into the garbage disposal as this fills up the tank with additional solids.

8. Should I be treating my tank with a bacteria additive?

Yes, adding a bacteria additive will help breakdown the solids separating them into floating scum and sludge that the bottom cleaner drops to allowing greywater to exit into the leach fields. Adding bacteria additives will help build also up the scum layer more quickly which helps prevent unpleasant odors in the home. Do NOT use powder bacteria treatments or powder cleaning products. The powder does not dissolve properly and sticks to your plumbing lines which can cause baffle blockages. Only use liquid products.

9.) Can you pump my septic through the cleanout?

No, the cleanout pipes are used by plumbers when your main lines need to be snaked. To pump the septic tank we must go through the concrete or fiberglass plugs. Most tanks are buried underground which will require labor to expose.

10) How do you find the septic tank lids if I don’t know where it’s located?

We will request Pima County for any maps on the septic system prior to your appointment. We can usually get records in 24-48 hours. We have over 100,000 records in our system so there is a good chance we have the septic location on file. We will start with a process of water probing or electric locate to find the tank. The first pumping tends to take a little longer. Your future pumping’s after that will be much easier due to us drawing maps, taking pictures, and tagging the lids.

Installation of a new septic tank with concrete risers.