"Well. Only problem was delay in response time after claim was filed online. Water tank started leaking Thanksgiving morning and no reply until I called the Regional Manager."
"Takes for ever to get a return a call. Also took a week to get someone out for repairs. They said they would reimburse me for septic repairs and it took over 3 months for that to happen."
We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumers' needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship, and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs, and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work, and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
If you aren’t sure if you have a septic tank or a cesspit, you can check your property records or inspect your drainage system. A septic tank has an outlet pipe that allows liquid to drain into a soakaway or drain field, while a cesspit is a sealed tank that requires frequent emptying. If you notice a manhole cover and no nearby drainage field, it’s likely a cesspit. Signs like slow drainage or a frequent need for pumping can also provide clues. A professional inspection is the easiest way to confirm if your home runs on a septic tank or cesspit.
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.
Regular checks of pressure tanks, testing water quality, and cleaning intake screens.
The best times of year to pump or empty a septic tank are spring and fall. Many professionals recommend spring because the ground has thawed, making the tank easier to access, and any snowmelt or rainfall can aid in proper drainage. Pumping before summer is also ideal to avoid conflicts with vacations or outdoor gatherings.
Fall is another great option, as contractors may be less busy than in the spring. Servicing the tank in late fall or early spring can also reduce the risk of overflow from extra precipitation during winter and spring.
While summer is a possibility, winter is generally not recommended. The ground is often frozen, which can make it difficult to access the tank, and the waste inside may also be frozen.
The lifespan of your well casing depends mainly on the material it’s made from. Stainless steel and galvanized steel casings are designed to withstand the pressures and environment of deep-water wells but are susceptible to corrosion. Most steel casings last from 20 to 35 years, on average. PVC casing is highly durable and, if used correctly, can last up to 50 years.
The Scobey, MT homeowners’ guide to septic tank services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Caring for your septic system is crucial to ensuring its long life. But how much does it cost to pump a septic tank? We explore the different cost factors.
It’s crucial to install a septic tank with the right volume to avoid wastewater backups. This guide will help you calculate the right septic tank volume.
Septic tank sizes vary depending on the size of your home, how many people live there, how much water you use, and more. Read on to learn how to determine the right size for you.