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Batts Plumbing Service & Repair
New to Angi
Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Alpine, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1981

James Batts has been in business since 1981 and is a master plumber. He takes great pride in providing his customers with quality work at a great price. This has built him a strong reputation for customer satisfaction. Allow him to show you how his commitment to personal service and expertise will help you with all of your plumbing needs.

Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

With so much available information about the ecological effects of cesspools (and their general unpleasantness), it begs the question: Are cesspools legal? In short, sort of. Large-capacity cesspools that serve more than 20 people are completely illegal countrywide. Existing, smaller cesspools are generally allowed as long as they’re not actively polluting. However, new cesspools are illegal to build in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, and many states offer programs to help homeowners with the costs of updating cesspools to modern septic systems.

Concrete septic tank risers are heavier and more durable than plastic or fiberglass ones, making them suitable for long-term use. Installing a concrete riser differs from installing plastic or fiberglass risers primarily in the materials and methods used. The process involves cutting the concrete risers to the required length and then stacking them, using concrete sealant or adhesive between sections for secure attachment. Due to their weight, extra care is necessary during leveling and the attachment of sections. Concrete sealant or adhesive may also require a curing before the riser is ready for use.

Drilled wells have a pipe sticking up that’s covered in a plastic or metal casing. On the other hand, a dug well will look like a big hole in the ground and is more similar to what you’d see in a fantasy or Western movie. If you want to be sure, contact the city for documentation on your property’s construction and excavation history. 

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.

Soda, coffee, and other soft drinks are highly acidic. This affects the pH in septic tanks, causing them to require more frequent pumping. However, a vast majority of people don't need to worry about septic system disruption. Pouring out the occasional flat soda doesn’t affect septic systems to the same degree as the high-volume dumping from restaurants and convenience stores.

The Alpine, TX homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

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