Get matched with top septic tank pros in Oaklevel, VA

Q: How much sludge should be in a septic tank?

• <div><p>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&rsquo;s time to call a pro for pumping.</p></div>

Q: What is a good perc rate for a septic system?

• <div><p>Perc rates vary dramatically, and a good perc rate could be anything from 5 minutes per inch of drainage to 60 minutes per inch. The lower the number, the faster your system will drain and the more effective it will be. A 60-minute-per-inch drain rate is the highest number considered to be good, or even allowable, draining.</p></div>

Q: Can I add dirt over a septic field?

• <div><p>Adding a thin layer of dirt over a septic drain field is fine, especially if soil erosion has occurred. However, adding too much dirt can compact the soil, reducing the drain field&rsquo;s ability to absorb and filter wastewater properly. Avoid using heavy clay soil, as it can prevent proper drainage. Instead, use a light layer of topsoil and plant grass to help with soil stability. </p></div>

Q: Why is my septic tank filling up so fast?

• <div><p>Septic tanks appear full after pumping because the liquid levels have returned to normal. If you can see the pipe, the tank is empty. However, heavy rain can cause septic tanks to fill faster than normal. You might also have leaky pipes or faucets, causing extra water to drip down the drains and into the septic tank.</p></div>

Q: What happens if my leach field becomes full?

• <div><p>If your leach field becomes clogged or saturated, it can cause several problems with your home's septic system. The clog can cause sewage to back up into your home, leading to unpleasant odors and mess. A backed-up septic system can be a health hazard, particularly if the sewage starts to leach into the ground surrounding the leach field.</p><p>There are several ways to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-fix-a-saturated-leach-field.htm">fix a saturated drain field</a>, including cleaning out your septic tank, adding enzymes and additives to your drain system, and installing a larger septic system. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Septic Tank Service pros in Oaklevel, VA

*The Angi rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Oaklevel, VA 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 Oaklevel, VA 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 September 08, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
they were professional and completed the work timely, and did a great cleanup job after
Executive Floors LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Hard duty to haul a car from West Virginia
Cody's Custom Trailers
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Reviewed in June 2024
Overall a good experience. Very professional and polite. Had to get a new heating system installed because it had been 20 years. Everything was out of date. They did a great job; didn't take too long. I'm pleased with the service and would recommend working with them.
Fleetwell Air Conditioning Heating & Plumbing
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Reviewed in January 2024
Felipe is an honorable man, good to his word, fair in his price and does his work with excellence! His team is top notch and follows his example of excellence in everything! He shows up when he says he will and his communication is the best I have experienced in Martinsville!â ¦no wait, the best...
Aguilar Company
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Reviewed in April 2023
They were very professional and on time. Was very pleased with the job. Would highly recommend Pro Asphalt Maintenance to anyone looking to have their driveway resealed.
Pro Asphalt Maintenance
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Reviewed in November 2022
My experience with C & S was beyond exceptional.. We were able to set up an appointment right away and everything went very well.. I highly recommend this business to be of service to others..
C&S Construction
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Reviewed in October 2021
Derrick Schmidt, the service technician, did a great job installing a new pump for me. He was efficient, and left no mess. Best of all, he had good customer service skills.
JES Foundation Repair
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Reviewed in June 2021
I have been very satisfied with the work provided by Mr. Canals. He has done numerous small jobs here. From installing dishwashers and faucets to pressure washing.
Canals Rio Property Service
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Reviewed in February 2020
Andrew and his assistant, Aaron, expertly removed a large tree from my property, a job that was complicated by its proximity to my propane tank. They successfully dropped the tree in such a way that it missed the tank and caused virtually no damage to the surrounding trees, rhododendrons,...
Greenway Tree Care, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2011
The serviceman called me back within 30 minutes of my leaving a message with the receptionist that I needed help. This was on Friday afternoon. He said that if he could finish the job he was on he would come by that day. He called back a couple of hours later to say that their truck had been...
HANDY'S SEPTIC & DRAIN CLNG
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Find Septic tank pros in Oaklevel

Crowder Construction

5.0(

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - RepairSeptic System - Install or Replace - For Business+1 more

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We invite you to experience a tradition of customer satisfaction that will exceed your greatest expectations. Our professionalism and quality workmanship will accurately reflect your taste and lifestyle. From conception to completion, we work with you until the job is done. We are ethical, honest, and easy to communicate with. \n\nCall us today you'll be pleased you did. Thank you\n

8 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Bud Hypes Plumbing & Sewer Service

3.9(

)

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

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1981

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

Bud Hypes Plumbing & Sewer Service offers residential and commercial plumbing through WV and Virginia. Our services include plumbing, gas line, back-flow prevention, well pumps, and special services. We have over 40 years experience. We are licensed, bonded and insured. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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

Serving Oaklevel, VA 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 by82%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 Oaklevel, VA 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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Walls Construction and Handyman Services, Inc.

4.4(

)

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

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

Walls Construction and Handyman is your trusted handyman company serving all of the Northern Virginia area. From gutters to carpentry....Walls Can Do It All! We understand your expectations, our quality workmanship and attention to detail is standard on every job.We leave only when you are completely satisfied.

Recommended by86%of homeowners

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

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Emergency services offered

At Christopher plumbing, we are focused on providing exceptional 24 hour services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction & we will do everything we can to meet your expectations. With a variety of offerings to choose from, we're sure you'll be happy working with us. Because we're a small business we don't have the huge overhead expenses that you pay for so we are able to save you money with top of the line technicians. Our excellent reputation and long list of satisfied clients attest to our superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, clear communication, honesty and integrity. We offer discounts for seinors and military.

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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Harvey Contracting and Excavating, LLC

5.0(

)

Septic System - Install or Replace

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Harvey Contracting and Excavating does a good job. He has put in a septic systems for me and completed some grading work. He is personable, too."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Trent's Septic & Outdoors

New to Angi

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

A Trent's Septic & Outdoors we take pride in assisting and leading our valued customers in identifying their maintenance needs. With a commitment to service excellence and a personal touch, we develop and implement maintenance solutions that enhance homes and facilities. Our dedication extends beyond business; we actively contribute to our community. As a company, we strive to deliver quality and value-added complete solutions, measuring our success through company growth and customer retention.\n\nThank you for considering Trent's Septic & Outdoors for your maintenance requirements. We look forward to serving you with professionalism and dedication.

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John Dooley Excavating

1.3(

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

John Dooley Excavating is your local excavation contractor. We also specialize in septic tank systems cleaning, inspection, and installation. We provide all kinds of excavation projects including land cleaning, grading and much more. Each project is unique and custom tailored to your specific needs.

Response time2 hrs

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Dirt to diamonds enterprise

New to Angi

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Repair

Serving Oaklevel, VA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

We offer lawn care and land clearing also unclog drains and repair if needed

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Showing 1-10 of 12

Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

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.

Perc rates vary dramatically, and a good perc rate could be anything from 5 minutes per inch of drainage to 60 minutes per inch. The lower the number, the faster your system will drain and the more effective it will be. A 60-minute-per-inch drain rate is the highest number considered to be good, or even allowable, draining.

Adding a thin layer of dirt over a septic drain field is fine, especially if soil erosion has occurred. However, adding too much dirt can compact the soil, reducing the drain field’s ability to absorb and filter wastewater properly. Avoid using heavy clay soil, as it can prevent proper drainage. Instead, use a light layer of topsoil and plant grass to help with soil stability.

Septic tanks appear full after pumping because the liquid levels have returned to normal. If you can see the pipe, the tank is empty. However, heavy rain can cause septic tanks to fill faster than normal. You might also have leaky pipes or faucets, causing extra water to drip down the drains and into the septic tank.

If your leach field becomes clogged or saturated, it can cause several problems with your home's septic system. The clog can cause sewage to back up into your home, leading to unpleasant odors and mess. A backed-up septic system can be a health hazard, particularly if the sewage starts to leach into the ground surrounding the leach field.

There are several ways to fix a saturated drain field, including cleaning out your septic tank, adding enzymes and additives to your drain system, and installing a larger septic system.

The Oaklevel, VA 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

D.P. Taylor
•
May 22, 2026May 22, 2026
Crank Up Your Understanding of Septic Tank Volume
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.
Jamie Cattanach
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
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.
Taylor Freitas
•
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.
Jamie Cattanach
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
How Deep Is a Septic Tank and Why Is It Buried in the First Place?
How deep is a septic tank, and why is it buried? Learn where to place your own septic system as well as how to maintain it and how much it costs.
Kyle Schurman
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
What Is a Septic Tank Riser? The Super Efficient, Easy-Access Gateway to Your Septic Tank
Septic tank risers make it easy to access your septic tank when it’s time for routine inspection, maintenance, and pumping, saving you precious time and labor costs.