Get matched with top septic tank pros in Colma, CA

Q: What is the life expectancy of a septic drain field or leach field?

• <div><p>A properly installed and maintained septic drain field (also known as a leach field) can last up to 50 years, though the average is around 20 years. However, factors like poor soil conditions, heavy usage, or improper maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan to 15-20 years.</p><p>To extend the life of your drain field:</p><ul><li><p><b>Schedule Regular Inspections:</b> Have the entire septic system, including the drain field, inspected every two to five years to catch problems early.</p></li><li><p><b>Protect the Area:</b> Avoid driving heavy vehicles or placing heavy structures over the drain field. Plant only grass or other lightweight vegetation with shallow roots over the area.</p></li><li><p><b>Maintain the Septic Tank:</b> Proper care of the septic tank, including regular pumping and avoiding harmful chemicals, prevents strain on the drain field.</p></li></ul><p>Be aware of signs of failure, such as strange odors, standing water, or unusually lush grass over the field, which indicate your system may need professional attention.</p></div>

Q: How many bedrooms can a 1500-gallon septic tank support?

• <div><p>A septic tank with a 1,500-gallon capacity is good for larger homes with up to 6 or 7 bedrooms. The average home can go with a smaller tank, about 1,000 gallons, which supports a home size of up to 2,500 square feet, or a home with about three bedrooms.</p></div>

Q: Who should I call for a septic smell in the house?

• <div><p>If you notice a septic smell in the house, you can either call a septic system repair company or a plumber. These professionals have the proper licenses and equipment to investigate the pipes and septic tank while keeping your family safe from sewage gas exposure and raw sewage leaks. They will be able to find the problem as soon as possible and get it fixed so that your home can get back to smelling fresh again.</p></div>

Q: How do you detect a septic field?

• <div><p>Start by finding the septic tank, marked by an access lid near your home. From there, the drain field extends outward in a series of trenches. Look for greener, lusher grass, as drain fields promote plant growth due to moisture and fertilizer. You can also check property records, use a soil probe to detect damp soil, or hire a septic professional with ground-penetrating radar equipment to map the drain field&rsquo;s location. </p></div>

Q: Is it normal to smell your septic outside?

• <div><p>It is not normal to smell your septic outside and indicates a problem such as an unsealed manhole or access lid, a clogged septic line, a faulty vent stack, or the need for a septic tank pumping. If sewage is leaking from your septic system, it can be hazardous to you, your family, pets, and the surrounding environment. You can troubleshoot the issue yourself, or contact a septic tank pro who can resolve the issue quickly.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Septic Tank Service pros in Colma, CA

*The Angi rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Colma, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Septic Tank Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Colma, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Septic Tank Service needs.

Last update on January 23, 2025

Reviewed in January 2025
Install circuit breaker and 240 outlet in preparation for new electric tank water heater. Took the time to consult with water heater contractor to make sure the correct parts were used, and placement of shutoff was done properly. Professional, prompt, and thorough. We are very pleased with...
BARAK ELECTRIC
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Reviewed in March 2023
They installed a tankless water heater for us, upgrading from our previous tank. Efficient install, great team, reasonable cost. They even managed to build a structure for the tankless heater that allowed us to reclaim space for a future linen closet. Highly recommend Jacob and the team!
Sovereignty Plumbing
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Reviewed in August 2018
Nice job that was my spectation project tanks to easy bay are home look nice and cleaner kitchen reasonable price nice employees responsible I will hire them again Easybay will made it far on these good company
Bay Easy Construction
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Reviewed in October 2016
The wax ring replacement went well. The technician was polite and answered my questions at various stages of the assessment/repair. The tech also noticed and tightened a loose bolt in the tank while finishing the job. Unfortunately, the associated washer had deteriorated, which resulted in the...
George Salet Plumbing Inc
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Reviewed in September 2016
Mike literally saved the day with his inspection. He was able to locate the septic which turned out not to be a legit septic and which helped give honesty to a property that was incorrectly listed at my time of escrow as having a legit septic. He was patient and provided a very detailed,...
Mr Rooter Plumbing of Mendocino & Lake Counties,
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Reviewed in August 2014
The plumber who came from this company seemed extremely knowledgeable and thorough, unlike others who simply announced that I needed a new water heater without even looking at my tank. However, I was promised that for $30 I would get a written quotation on the replacement, by e-mail within two...
Cabrillo Plumbing
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Reviewed in June 2013
Decided to use the gas card that I purchased for $5.00 today. Stop in at the Shell Gas Station in Daly City, CA. Slide in the card and filled my gas tank for $25.00. The process was smooth and easy. No problem. What a bargain! So happy to be a member of Angie's List. <br />
Shell
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Reviewed in October 2012
After looking for a plumber on Angie's List, I decided to go with Magic Plumbing and use one of their coupons. I called in the morning and the person answering the phone said that while they did not have a plumber available at the moment, they would send someone out in the afternoon. Luckily...
Magic Plumbing
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Find Septic tank pros in Colma

Nathan's Plumbing INC

4.9(

)

Septic System - RepairSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2018

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

"Great experience with this plumbing company! They did the plumbing for my garage conversion into an ADU. They were professional, reliable, clean, and finished everything on time. Their pricing was competitive and the quality of their work was excellent. I would definitely recommend them!"

101 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by33%of homeowners

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TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

5.0(

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Called Trio Heating on a late Friday afternoon and they sent out two technicians (Jose & Dallin) the next morning to fix a gas heater that would not turn on. Their communication from beginning to end was great. They sent me a text 45 minutes before their arrival time and I was able to track their ETA which was extremely helpful. They explained to me what the issue was. I was able to run out and buy a new thermostat for them to install. They did a great job, cleaned everything up and put everything back together. They also typed up everything they worked on and took multiple detailed photos of the unit and emailed 10 minutes after they left. I think what they charged was extremely reasonable for the quality of work. I really appreciated not being charged a higher fee for coming out on a weekend. Will definitely use them again for my HVAC needs!"

Heating & Air Conditioning Installations

+51

Response time4 hrs

Response rate93%

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

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McCormick Home Builders, Inc.

4.7(

)

Septic Tank - Clean or Pump OutSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out - For Business

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Customers say: True professional

"Our landscaping in Menlo Park needed a complete refresh. The team replaced thirsty plants with drought-tolerant options that still provide plenty of color and curb appeal. We're using much less water without sacrificing appearance."

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by17%of homeowners

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Home Pro Remodeling & Construction, Inc.

4.1(

)

Septic Tank - Clean or Pump OutSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out - For Business

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Ariel was great in explaininf the process to me and Omar and Ivan were very beat an kept me informed on what was happening. A love my beautiful bathroom."

Response time5 days

Recommended by77%of homeowners

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Raya Engineering

New to Angi

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Here at Raya Engineering, we sustain our company on the principal that our customers come first. We offer services that are tailored to your needs and we're ready to show you what our experience can bring to your project! Call us today!

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RSF Construction Inc.

1.0(

)

Septic Tank - Clean or Pump OutSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out - For Business

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

RSF Construction Inc. is a leader in providing our customers with the highest quality service in an honest, efficient, and professional way. Our pledge is to create successful relationships with our customers, employees and community by building trust, treating every project with the utmost integrity and exceeding expectations. We look forward to working with you!

Septic Tank - Clean or Pump OutSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out - For Business

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1979

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"We've been using Caccia Plumbing to take care of any plumbing needs that pop up at our rental properties. Everyone we deal with is courteous, sharp, and incredibly meticulous at what they do. From Christina and Anthony, who handle initial calls and scheduling, to Abnan and the team of technicians that get in and do the work... everyone is professional and demonstrates great work ethics. I don't have to worry about ANYTHING!!! It is wonderful to have a company out there that supports me every step of the way in getting repairs completed with the highest quality and craftsmanship I have ever seen. Joe Romano Burlingame, CA"

Meet Geno Caccia - Owner of James Caccia Plumbing

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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Resendiz Handyman & Plumbing

5.0(

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

"It went great they did observation,good performance they did the job right and they were clean."

+21

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"It went extremely well. The Plumber Uriel, was on time, and explained everything to me. He immediately diagnosed the problem and corrected it. He also made me aware of corrective measures I can take in the future. I highly recommend him! He is honest and fair!"

+23

Recommended by88%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Colma, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1960

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"really thorough, honest and reliable service provided by Arturo Ayala. I would highly recommend Arturo's service !"

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 30

Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

A properly installed and maintained septic drain field (also known as a leach field) can last up to 50 years, though the average is around 20 years. However, factors like poor soil conditions, heavy usage, or improper maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan to 15-20 years.

To extend the life of your drain field:

Schedule Regular Inspections: Have the entire septic system, including the drain field, inspected every two to five years to catch problems early.
Protect the Area: Avoid driving heavy vehicles or placing heavy structures over the drain field. Plant only grass or other lightweight vegetation with shallow roots over the area.
Maintain the Septic Tank: Proper care of the septic tank, including regular pumping and avoiding harmful chemicals, prevents strain on the drain field.

Be aware of signs of failure, such as strange odors, standing water, or unusually lush grass over the field, which indicate your system may need professional attention.

A septic tank with a 1,500-gallon capacity is good for larger homes with up to 6 or 7 bedrooms. The average home can go with a smaller tank, about 1,000 gallons, which supports a home size of up to 2,500 square feet, or a home with about three bedrooms.

If you notice a septic smell in the house, you can either call a septic system repair company or a plumber. These professionals have the proper licenses and equipment to investigate the pipes and septic tank while keeping your family safe from sewage gas exposure and raw sewage leaks. They will be able to find the problem as soon as possible and get it fixed so that your home can get back to smelling fresh again.

Start by finding the septic tank, marked by an access lid near your home. From there, the drain field extends outward in a series of trenches. Look for greener, lusher grass, as drain fields promote plant growth due to moisture and fertilizer. You can also check property records, use a soil probe to detect damp soil, or hire a septic professional with ground-penetrating radar equipment to map the drain field’s location.

It is not normal to smell your septic outside and indicates a problem such as an unsealed manhole or access lid, a clogged septic line, a faulty vent stack, or the need for a septic tank pumping. If sewage is leaking from your septic system, it can be hazardous to you, your family, pets, and the surrounding environment. You can troubleshoot the issue yourself, or contact a septic tank pro who can resolve the issue quickly.

The Colma, CA homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

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