Master your septic system with expert guides, pumping calculators, and AI diagnostic tools.
Learn the essential dos and don'ts to extend your system's lifespan by decades.
Hearing gurgling sounds? Smelling odors? Get instant, expert advice on what to do next.
Stop guessing. Calculate exactly when your specific tank size needs service based on usage.
A septic system failure can cost $10,000-$30,000 to repair. Regular maintenance costs just $300-500 every 3-5 years. The math is simple: proper care saves you thousands and protects your property value.
Most residential tanks need pumping every 3-5 years, but it depends on tank size, household size, and water usage.
Avoid: Baby wipes, feminine products, cooking grease, chemicals, cat litter, coffee grounds, and medications.
Never park vehicles over it, plant trees nearby, or add a deck. The drainfield needs oxygen to function.
Determine the optimal maintenance interval for your specific system.
Septic tanks work through bacterial action that breaks down solids. Here's what happens:
Heavier solids sink to form sludge. Lighter materials like grease float as scum. The clear middle layer (effluent) flows to the drainfield.
Anaerobic bacteria digest organic matter. This is why you should never use antibacterial cleaners or harsh chemicals.
Partially treated water flows to the drainfield where soil microbes finish the purification process.
Chat with our AI septic expert. Ask about maintenance, troubleshooting, or get help diagnosing issues.
Everything you need to know to keep things flowing smoothly.
Maintenance · 5 min read
How often should you really pump your tank? We break down the math based on household size and usage. The standard "every 3-5 years" rule doesn't apply to everyone. Learn the factors that determine your specific pumping schedule and why pumping too often can actually be wasteful.
Troubleshooting · 7 min read
Identifying the signs of drainfield failure before it becomes a disaster. A wet, spongy area over your drainfield isn't always an emergency, but it's never a good sign. Learn to distinguish between normal saturation and system failure, and what your options are for repair.
Maintenance · 4 min read
Stop flushing money down the drain. A comprehensive list of chemicals, papers, and additives to avoid at all costs. Just because something says "flushable" doesn't mean it's septic-safe. We expose the marketing myths and give you the straight truth about what belongs in your system.