Get matched with top septic tank pros in Downey, CA

Q: What foods are good for septic tanks?

• <div><p>Certain foods are easier on your septic tank than others. Septic-safe foods include yogurt, fruit, cooked veggies, and bread because these items all break down relatively easily and can pass through your system safely. Rotten tomatoes, specifically, are actually good for your septic tank because they can increase the amount of good bacteria in the system. </p></div>

Q: How can I add or replenish good bacteria in my septic tank?

• <div><p>Your septic tank naturally contains the good bacteria it needs, so you typically don't have to add more as the system produces them on its own. However, if you wish to replenish the bacteria, you can use natural methods. For example, you can add three rotten tomatoes to your garbage disposal or flush 1/4 ounce of active yeast down the toilet every three months. While store-bought septic enzymes and chemicals are available, many additives are unnecessary and may even harm your system. The most effective way to maintain a healthy bacterial balance is to avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank.</p></div>

Q: Does a gurgling toilet mean a septic tank is full?

• <div><p>A gurgling toilet usually doesn&rsquo;t mean that your septic tank is full. If waste can&rsquo;t drain into a full septic tank, you&rsquo;ll see water and sewage backing up into your fixtures, but the air that causes gurgling is a result of poor venting. You are more likely to have a clog in your vent stack or a damaged air admittance valve.</p></div>

Q: Why would a well pump fail?

• <div><p>Age is certainly a factor in <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/signs-you-may-need-new-well-pump.htm">well pump failure</a>. The older your pump, the more likely it is to fail. </p><p>Beyond age, other factors can cause your well pump to fail, too. Things like poor water quality can cause sediment buildup in your pump. Without proper cleaning, your pump can seize up and fail. Having a dry well for too long can also cause your pump to fail, as it keeps working even though there's no water for it to pull. </p></div>

Q: What is the difference between septic tanks and cesspits?

• <div><p>Septic tanks and cesspits are both types of sewage and wastewater systems, but they differ in key ways. The main difference between the two systems is that septic tanks separate sewage from wastewater and allow the latter to flow into a drainage field to filter and disperse into the soil. Cesspits don&rsquo;t have outlets and instead, store sewage until it needs to be pumped by a professional.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Septic Tank Service pros in Downey, CA

*The Angi rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Downey, 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 Downey, 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 February 12, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
I recently had a garbage disposal installed by GC Plumbing, and they were great to work with. They arrived on time, explained everything clearly, and completed the installation quickly and professionally. Everything works perfectly, and they left the area clean. I’d definitely recommend them for...
GC Plumbing
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Reviewed in November 2025
Fernando came out to help us with our clogged toilet . Was very professional and clean . Will definitely use them again
Rubio's Plumbing
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Reviewed in May 2025
Got my pool plumbing and replaster done by HV and it came out Amazing. Real happy with the results.
H V POOLS AND SPA
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Reviewed in April 2025
My toilet and shower were clogged and no one was available after 6pm. Luckily I found ACR and they came out and their crew cleared the lines. I was able to shower and use the bathroom and the next day they came out and replaced the broken section in my main line , I didn’t know I had that big of...
ACR Trenchless & Plumbing Inc.
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Reviewed in July 2024
The technician was right on time. Very friendly guy. He asked me were the water heater tank and quickly started the project. He did not waste any time just f ocusing on his work. I was very satisfied how the project was done from start to finished.
Wish Granted
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Reviewed in December 2022
A Plus Transporting Group can manage even the most delicate and logistically difficult tasks, such as transferring pianos, fish tanks, offices, IT equipment, and speciality items. attempt A Plus Moving Group St. at least once.
A Plus Moving
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Reviewed in December 2021
They helped me work through the several Tankless water heaters I had selected. An which one would work best to my homes Plumbing design, and future expansion. Chris Martinez the Installer was very knowledgeable and willing to work with us On this project.
Do It Right Plumbers, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2021
They worked roundaclock, efficient, knowledgeable workers esp DANIEL & his Team. Re Pipe was done fir a 1955 residence, from cast iron to ABS pipes, Job par Excellence! Worth your penny
MVP Plumbing, Inc.
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Reviewed in May 2020
Called in the morning to be sure it was OK if they were a little late. Arrived exactly when said. Friendly answered all our questions.Definitely knew their job. They made sure everything was clean when they left. A little mark off as we are waiting for them to add a little drain pipe from the...
Jax Mechanical
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Reviewed in January 2015
I had a leaking commode as water was subtly seeping out around the base of the toilet. I called R.K. Knight Plumbing and explained my concerns to a very pleasant receptionist. I was immediately impressed by her genuine concern and interest in my situation. The level of courtesy was very...
RK Knight Plumbing & Rooter
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Find Septic tank pros in Downey

VeriTech Plumbing

5.0(

)

Septic System - Repair - For Business

Serving Downey, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Top Rated Commercial Plumbing Services in Orange County, CA are essential for keeping businesses running smoothly, and our team delivers unmatched reliability and precision. At VeriTech Plumbing, we provide advanced diagnostics, efficient repairs, and long-lasting solutions tailored to commercial properties of all sizes, ensuring performance, safety, and consistent operational flow.\n

1 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 Downey, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Customers say: True professional

"Leo was very helpful and quick to respond. We’re happy with how our 2 bathrooms turned out. Project was completed within the time promised. Our only complaint is that the workers did not clean up very well. But overall, we’re satisfied and we’ll use them again."

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 Downey, 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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Peninsula Septic Service Inc

New to Angi

Septic Tank - Clean or Pump OutSeptic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Downey, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of General Contractor services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!\n

Response time2 days

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Acosta & Sons Sewer Contractors

New to Angi

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Downey, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We invite you to experience a tradition of customer satisfaction that will exceed your greatest expectations. Our professionalism and quality workmanship will accurately reflect your taste and lifestyle. From conception to completion we work with you until the job is done. We thrive to take care of all of our clients unique needs. We are ethical, honest and easy to communicate with. Call us today you'll be pleased you did. Thank you!

Response time2 days

9 neighbors recently requested a quote

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RSF Construction Inc.

1.0(

)

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

Serving Downey, 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 Downey, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 1997

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I did not get estimates from other plumbers in the area, so I don't know where my cost fit in a range from others to judge by. I paid $3280.00 for cesspool draining and hydro-jetting the pipe. Otherwise, I liked the service which was prompt, and the plumber courteous."

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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The Drain Guys Plumbing and Rooter

4.7(

)

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

Serving Downey, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I never received the permit I paid for, they finally finished the work after I had to complain and called several times."

Recommended by90%of homeowners

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Septic & Sewer Works, LLC - Unlicensed Contractor

5.0(

)

Septic Tank - Clean or Pump Out

Serving Downey, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Everything was on time, really great. Explained everything he was going to do, and price was very reasonable. I would recommend him to my friends!"

Response time10 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Downey, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Excellent service! Even though it was the middle of the night, he was punctual, kind and helpful. He quickly solved the problem and explained the nuances of the system and how it works. Thank you!"

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 79

Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

Certain foods are easier on your septic tank than others. Septic-safe foods include yogurt, fruit, cooked veggies, and bread because these items all break down relatively easily and can pass through your system safely. Rotten tomatoes, specifically, are actually good for your septic tank because they can increase the amount of good bacteria in the system.

Your septic tank naturally contains the good bacteria it needs, so you typically don't have to add more as the system produces them on its own. However, if you wish to replenish the bacteria, you can use natural methods. For example, you can add three rotten tomatoes to your garbage disposal or flush 1/4 ounce of active yeast down the toilet every three months. While store-bought septic enzymes and chemicals are available, many additives are unnecessary and may even harm your system. The most effective way to maintain a healthy bacterial balance is to avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank.

A gurgling toilet usually doesn’t mean that your septic tank is full. If waste can’t drain into a full septic tank, you’ll see water and sewage backing up into your fixtures, but the air that causes gurgling is a result of poor venting. You are more likely to have a clog in your vent stack or a damaged air admittance valve.

Age is certainly a factor in well pump failure. The older your pump, the more likely it is to fail.

Beyond age, other factors can cause your well pump to fail, too. Things like poor water quality can cause sediment buildup in your pump. Without proper cleaning, your pump can seize up and fail. Having a dry well for too long can also cause your pump to fail, as it keeps working even though there's no water for it to pull.

Septic tanks and cesspits are both types of sewage and wastewater systems, but they differ in key ways. The main difference between the two systems is that septic tanks separate sewage from wastewater and allow the latter to flow into a drainage field to filter and disperse into the soil. Cesspits don’t have outlets and instead, store sewage until it needs to be pumped by a professional.

The Downey, CA homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

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

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