How does a septic tank work?

• <div><p>Unlike an urban sewer system that runs wastewater into a central drainage system, septic tanks are a house-by-house system. They are the ultimate destination for all your house’s wastewater—from bathtubs, showers, sinks, toilets, and washing machines. Wastewater flows into a tank buried in the ground outside your home, and then water runs from the tank to a drainage field using sloped pipes.</p></div>

What are the costs associated with community wells?

• <div><p>The costs depend on whether you are buying into an existing well or starting from scratch. The average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-well-drilling-cost.htm">well drilling cost</a> is between <b>$25 and $60 per foot</b>. The average cost to repair a well is between <b>$350 and $1500</b>. If you have a shared agreement and a community association, there will be additional legal and administrative fees. </p></div>

Get matched with top septic tank pros in Alpine, TX

Q: How big is a 500-gallon concrete septic tank?

• <div><p>The dimensions of a 500-gallon concrete septic tank can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the tank is large enough to handle the wastewater of a small home with up to one bedroom. Keep in mind that some states have a minimum septic tank size, and this often starts at 750 gallons. A 500-gallon septic tank may be too small to meet local regulations.</p></div>

Q: How do I increase the bacteria in my septic tank naturally?

• <div><p>Good news: You&rsquo;ll naturally <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/increase-bacteria-in-septic-tank-naturally.htm">increase the bacteria in your septic tank</a> simply by using it. If you want to encourage more good bacteria growth, stop using products and household cleaners that kill bacteria, such as bleach and harsh chemicals. Never flush antibiotics, and make sure only water and waste go down the tube&mdash;not paper products, feminine hygiene products, or diapers.</p></div>

Q: What breaks down sludge in a septic tank?

• <div><p>Septic tanks naturally have bacteria that break down some of the solid waste in the septic tank. However, sludge buildup is just part of owning a septic system. While liquid wastewater can be filtered and treated through the system, a septic tank company has to pump the septic tank out at least every few years.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Septic Tank Service pros in Alpine, TX

*The Angi rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Alpine, TX 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 Alpine, TX 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 March 01, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
We highly recommend William and his team! They did a post construction clean. They did such a fantastic job that we have hired them to come in regularly.
Cobblestone Cleaning Co.
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Reviewed in March 2023
Great work, excellent service. I would hire again.
CRJ Enterprises LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
Very thorough and fixed the problem without any problems! I was very grateful as it was after 5:00 and he made time to repair the problem.
Affordable Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in November 2021
They were super professional and catered to our needs! From the estimate to the installation and clean up! Would definitely recommend it to my friends and family and anyone that is looking to get a fair and honest service.
Shepherd Renovations
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Reviewed in July 2021
Great job. On time and on budget. Cleaned up daily on a one-week job. Very neat. Efficient, workable, diligent and conscientious. Will use them again for sure.
Great Measures, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2021
Same day service which was hard to find. Did job with expert care, professional, excellent customer service, communicated well and most importantly, reasonably priced. I highly recommend Tom with TMW. 5+++ Star rated company.
TMW Plumbing, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2021
The installation of our chair lift was seamless and the profession and kindness of Ryan was second to none. The measuring to installation was completed in under a week. The lift operation is smooth too! The overall experience can't be beat!
Accessible America, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2020
I've never had any problem with them.
Big Bend Handyman & Cleaning Service
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Reviewed in September 2020
Jovan and his crew did a fantastic job! They actually took down more t/ shrubs than originally requested. They came out I think a few days of contracting them. Very reasonable pricing!
Golden Boy Tree Service
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Reviewed in May 2020
Omar is hardworking, honest and does what the says he is going to do.
Baeza Construction
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Find Septic tank pros in Alpine

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

Serving Alpine, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"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."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

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

Serving Alpine, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"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."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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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.

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Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

The dimensions of a 500-gallon concrete septic tank can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the tank is large enough to handle the wastewater of a small home with up to one bedroom. Keep in mind that some states have a minimum septic tank size, and this often starts at 750 gallons. A 500-gallon septic tank may be too small to meet local regulations.

Unlike an urban sewer system that runs wastewater into a central drainage system, septic tanks are a house-by-house system. They are the ultimate destination for all your house’s wastewater—from bathtubs, showers, sinks, toilets, and washing machines. Wastewater flows into a tank buried in the ground outside your home, and then water runs from the tank to a drainage field using sloped pipes.

Good news: You’ll naturally increase the bacteria in your septic tank simply by using it. If you want to encourage more good bacteria growth, stop using products and household cleaners that kill bacteria, such as bleach and harsh chemicals. Never flush antibiotics, and make sure only water and waste go down the tube—not paper products, feminine hygiene products, or diapers.

Septic tanks naturally have bacteria that break down some of the solid waste in the septic tank. However, sludge buildup is just part of owning a septic system. While liquid wastewater can be filtered and treated through the system, a septic tank company has to pump the septic tank out at least every few years.

The costs depend on whether you are buying into an existing well or starting from scratch. The average well drilling cost is between $25 and $60 per foot. The average cost to repair a well is between $350 and $1500. If you have a shared agreement and a community association, there will be additional legal and administrative fees.

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.

See all articles

Melissa Graham
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Locate a Septic Tank? [2026 Data]
If it’s been there for a while, it can be hard to find the septic tank in your yard. Learn how much it costs to locate a septic tank with this guide.
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Pump a Septic Tank? [2026 Data]
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.
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What’s the Right Septic Tank Size for Me?
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.
Taylor Freitas
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Are Septic Tanks Bad? Pros and Cons to Consider Before Moving Into a House With a Septic System
If you’ve never lived in a house with a septic system before, you might be wondering: Are septic tanks bad? Here are some of the pros and cons.
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•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How to Build a Small Septic Tank for a Rural Property
Want to learn how to build a septic tank for your rural or off-grid property? First, check your local laws, then dive into these general guidelines.