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Best septic tank pros near Ames, IA

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Top-Rated Septic tank pros in Ames - Updated Nov 2026

Avatar for Vertex Construction Services
Vertex Construction Services
5.0(
11
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For Business

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Locally owned and operated company right here in the state of Iowa. We do take care of any excavation or grading needs a homeowner might need. With 20 years of experience in the industry, we offer a fair and competitive price and we are always available to answer any questions.

Grading
Grading
Grading
Grading
Sidewalk backfill

+13

Response time12 hrs
Response rate100%
23 neighbors recently requested a quote
Stoakes Septic Service, LLC
5.0(
6
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Jessy absolutely knows the septic business! My project was particularly difficult, but Jessy made all the right decisions and actually took some extra time to help me move. Heâ s a doer and did all the work himself!"
Response time4 hrs
Recommended by100%of homeowners
H&H DIESEL SERVICES OF IOWA L.L.C.
5.0(
5
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For Business

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Book with us online or feel free to give us a call today!

Response time10 hrs
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Golden Rule Plumbing Heating & Cooling Inc
Golden Rule Plumbing Heating & Cooling Inc
3.9(
112
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Ryan was very helpful setting up a Saturday appointment for me. Joe, the service plummer was there within an hour after my initial call. Joe was very professional and helpful. Joe went over all the costs up front. We initially thought we were able to unclog a toilet but later found that the object (deoderant container) was moved, but still lodged in the trap of the toilet. Joe came back on Monday morning and we had no choice but to replace the toilet. Joe went over the options and replaced it that morning. Again....he was very professional and did an amazing job."
Recommended by72%of homeowners
Avatar for American Plumbing and Excavating, LLC
American Plumbing and Excavating, LLC
5.0(
2
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Response time1 day
Recommended by50%of homeowners
Karr Septic Services
5.0(
1
)
Septic Tank - Clean or Pump OutSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out - For Business

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Credit card accepted

Karr Septic Services is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests and make their concerns the basis of our business

Recommended by100%of homeowners
NC Contracting
5.0(
1
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Here at NC Contracting we are a fully licensed and insured contracting company working with residential and commercial properties. No job is too large or small for us and we pride ourselves on our professionalism and skillset. Call now for a free quote.

Recommended by100%of homeowners
American Plumbing and Excavating, LLC
New to Angi
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair

Serving Ames, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Showing 1-10 of 11
Septic Tanks FAQs, answered by experts

Septic tank lids may or may not be buried in a yard. Most lids are buried at least 4 inches deep unless you have an aerobic septic system. Aerobic septic systems need frequent cleanings, about every four months, so it’s best to leave these lids aboveground for easier access. For buried lids, homeowners can use risers that make it easier to locate and access a buried septic tank lid.

Wells should be at least 100 feet deep for drinking water, but they may need to be deeper depending on the local geology, water quality, and your household’s water usage. Work with a qualified well drilling professional who can assess the appropriate depth for your well and test the water before drinking it.

Many contractors offer warranties for parts and labor. Confirm terms before hiring.

There are three layers of wastewater in a septic tank: scum (solid waste that floats to the top of the wastewater), liquid (the relatively clean liquid wastewater in between the two other layers), and sludge (solid waste that falls to the bottom of the wastewater). The buildup of sludge is one of the main reasons septic tanks need to be pumped. If the tank is more than 1/3 of the way full with a combination of sludge and scum, it’s time to call a pro for pumping.

A septic system's lifespan typically ranges from 15 to 40 years, with a common average of 20 to 30 years. The longevity heavily depends on the tank's material, maintenance diligence, and usage habits. With proper care, lifespans can reach the upper end of this range.

Lifespan by Tank Material:

  • Concrete: 20 to 40 years

  • Plastic or Fiberglass: 30 to 40 years

  • Steel: 15 to 20 years

To maximize your system's lifespan, follow these maintenance best practices:

  • Regular Pumping and Inspections: Have the tank pumped every three to five years and schedule professional inspections regularly.

  • Mindful Usage: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Avoid putting items like cat litter, paper towels, cigarette butts, fats, grease, oils, or coffee grounds down your drains.

  • Avoid Chemicals: Do not pour harsh chemicals into the system.

  • Water Conservation: Reduce the amount of wastewater your system has to process.

  • Protect the Drain Field: Avoid driving or building heavy structures over the drain field area.

The Ames, IA homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

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