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Avatar for American Home Shield – Home Warranty
American Home Shield – Home Warranty
3.5(
5,689
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Madison, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"The technician emptied the freezer, which was in the basement, to work on the part that needed repair. Then he neglected to put anything back into the freezer, including a turkey I had bought for Christmas and a rack of ribs. Two days after he left, I went out of town for two weeks. The turkey actually exploded and spewed its liquid all over everything, which had to be discarded. I let AHS know and they couldn't even bother to call me or follow up on this. I'm considering not renewing my contract with them because of the quality (or lack thereof) of many of the providers they send."
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+2

Recommended by65%of homeowners
Dillon's Dakota Excavating Service
2.8(
2
)
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Madison, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Offers commercial services

Dillon's specializes doing it right the first time. We do a wide variety of work around you home or yard with an emphasis on quality. We believe one's work should speak for itself, and that is why we have been working in the area for more than a decade. If you need one large project finished, or need some reliable to head multiple big jobs choose Dillon's!

Response time1 day
Recommended by50%of homeowners
JC's Landscaping
3.5(
3
)
Septic Tank - Clean or Pump OutSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out - For Business

Serving Madison, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

We are a locally owned and operated company with over 16 years of industry experience. We specialize in Additions and Kitchen Remodels, but also offer a wide range of expertise for a variety of other Home Improvement projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction! We are a bilingual company, and are happy to serve both our English and Spanish Speaking communities!\n

Response time1 day
Recommended by66%of homeowners
Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

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.

There are a few things that can make your drain field fail. These include driving or parking vehicles or heavy machinery on the field, excess sodium in the soil, or having a high water table. You can prevent failure by ensuring your installer checks that your chosen location is suitable for a drain field and properly maintaining your system with the help of a professional.

While abandoning a tank without treating it and following strict rules is illegal, there are several other ways to dispose of an old septic tank. One standard method is to pump out and crush the tank where it rests and bury it in the soil. Another is to remove it and transport it to a landfill. Finally, if abandonment is the best option, your contractor must pump out the tank and fill it with inert material, such as sand or concrete, depending on local regulations.

You can cover a septic tank riser with dirt, but it’s not always the best idea. If you have a plastic riser and you bury it, you can easily lose track of it since you won’t be able to find it with a metal detector. Make sure to clearly note where your rise is in your yard so that you’re able to access it easily the next time you or a septic pro needs it. Don’t bury the cover too deep or you could place too much stress on it and make it too difficult to access in the future.

You can check your own septic tank, but take precautions. Locate the access lid, usually buried a few inches underground, and remove it carefully. Look for the sludge and scum levels, and if they’re high, that means pumping may be necessary. Check for odors, slow drains, or pooling water around the drain field, which could indicate issues. Never enter the tank, as toxic gases can be fatal. All of that being said, a professional inspection is safer and more thorough.

The Madison, SD homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

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