FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Septic FAQ
How much does septic pumping cost?
Pricing varies by tank size, location, and condition. Contact us for a transparent quote — no hidden fees.
Do I need a permit for septic repairs?
Some repairs require county approval. We help guide you through the process and ensure all work meets local regulations.
What is included in a septic inspection?
System locating
Accessing tank lids
Measuring scum and sludge levels
Checking baffles, filters, and structural integrity
Testing flow
Inspecting drain field health
Do you provide real estate septic inspections?
Yes — our certified team performs thorough real estate inspections and provides complete reports for escrow.
Why are there more than one cover on my septic tank?
All tanks have two covers: one on the inlet side (where wastewater enters), and one on the outlet side (where liquid leaves toward the drain field). The lids are at least 20" in diameter while some older tanks you need to remove the whole top to access the tank chambers.
What does USA Septic do besides Septic tank pumping?
We are a full service septic contractor and as a licensed contractor we can handle anything from simple drain cleaning to whole system replacements. We do all the work ourselves, we do not use any subcontractors to work on your property. We have all the equipment needed to drill new septic pits up to 40' deep, install new septic tanks (Concrete, Polyethylene, or Fiberglass), all types of leach lines, and Advanced Systems if required for your property.
Do I have to be home when you come to pump the septic tank?
No, everything we need access to is outside the house so you don't need to be there. If you are home we will have you test the flow of your system after we are done pumping your tank to make sure everything is working properly. If we identify any concerns during service (tank condition, access issues, risk to drain field), being present allows us to show you and discuss options right away.
What can I flush or put down the drain?
Only toilet paper and waste should be flushed.
Avoid:
Wipes (even “flushable”)
Paper towels
Grease, oils & fats
Feminine products
Harsh chemicals or bleach
These can damage the system or cause clogs.
What can I do to preserve and protect my septic system?
We recommend a simple maintenance program:
Use septic-safe products
Fix leaks quickly
Spread out laundry loads
Keep vehicles off your drain field
Avoid planting large trees near your system
How often should I have my septic tank pumped?
While every system is different, a good rule of thumb is every 3-7 years. More frequent servicing may be required depending on system age, water usage, number of occupants, and condition of the system.
Why does my septic system back up or clog?
A: There are many possible causes. When you call us, we’ll ask a few key questions to help diagnose:
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When was the last time you had your tank pumped? Too much time between services can lead to issues.
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Is there a filter installed on your system? Filters help avoid hair, grit and debris from clogging the drain field.
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Where is the backup occurring (e.g., upstairs toilet, outside drain field seepage)? The location helps determine the likely problem.
Is just one area of the house backing up or the whole house.
