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Avatar for EMC
EMC
5.0(
8
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Dorris, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2003

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Licensed and bonded General Contractor #1009350 , EMC has an Odd Job Division! We can fix almost anything, and I will refer you to those that do what I don't. I have over 30 years in the construction business, now offering high-end maintenance services. Your home and property is your sanctuary, I will help you keep it in "ship shape". Call for a free estimate

Sagging gutter and rotten facia
Handyman Services Project
Remove gutter, cut out rotten wood
Handyman Services Project
Painted and replaced 2x6

+41

Recommended by100%of homeowners
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.

Most shallow residential wells are somewhere between 25 and 50 feet deep. They are among the simplest well systems. Deeper wells usually involve drilling to a much greater depth. Water wells for household use are typically 100 to 500 feet deep, depending on local groundwater conditions. Some may be up to 1,000 feet deep or more. 

Yes, shower water goes into the septic tank. Shower water is a type of greywater, and in fact, all water used in a home with a septic system—including water from sinks, toilets, the dishwasher, and the washing machine—drains into the tank. When shower water enters the tank, debris like soap and hair travels with it. The solid debris sinks to the bottom to become sludge, while soap residue joins the scum layer at the top. The remaining water is treated in the tank before moving to the drain field for further treatment and dispersal. It is important to avoid putting oil or harsh chemicals down any drain, as they can cause clogs or disrupt the beneficial bacteria required for proper wastewater management in the septic system.

A septic smell may be harmful because sewer gas is dangerous depending on the exposure amount and length of time. Sewer gas is made up of multiple gases, including hydrogen sulfide, methane, ammonia, and carbon dioxide. Some of these gases, like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, are toxic to humans and can be fatal in high concentrations or long exposures.

For homes with a septic tank, harsh chemicals like those found in drain cleaner or bleach aren’t recommended. Some chemical drain cleaners can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the septic tank or damage your pipes. For homes with a septic tank, you can choose drain cleaners specifically formulated for use with septic tanks or go with a drain snake. When in doubt, make sure you know who to call for a clogged drain. 

The Dorris, CA homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.