Septic Tank

A septic tank is an underground wastewater treatment system commonly found in homes without access to municipal sewer lines. It handles everything from daily drainage to waste breakdown, requiring regular pumping, inspections, and occasional repairs to keep things flowing smoothly. Whether you're troubleshooting a backup or scheduling routine maintenance, Angi connects you with local pros and helpful guides to keep your system running right.

Related to Septic Tank Service

Septic Tank Service Articles and Advice
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Apr 10, 2026
How Often to Pump a Septic Tank: What You Need to Know
Budgeting for your home maintenance needs? Our guide on how often to pump your septic tank covers everything you need to know about this critical task.
Jamie Cattanach  •  Apr 10, 2026
Septic Leach Lines: How They Make a Dirty Job Clean
Septic leach lines perform the important function of taking wastewater from your septic tank to the leach field. Here’s how they work and how to maintain them.
Jamie Cattanach  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Is a Septic Inspection and When Do You Need One?
A septic inspection is a vital part of total septic system health. Learn more about what goes into a septic inspection and how often to get one.
Paige Bennett  •  Apr 10, 2026
How Does a Septic System Work?
Septic systems are an essential waste management feature of many homes. Find out how a septic system works to turn wastewater into treated groundwater.
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Is a Cesspool? Everything You Need to Know
Learn what a cesspool is and the differences between cesspools, septic tanks, and dry wells, so you can make an informed decision about which is best for you.
Dan Simms  •  Apr 10, 2026
What to Do if Your Land Fails a Perc Test
If your plot isn’t connected to a sewer line, you’ll need a perc test to build. Learn what to do if your land fails a perc test and some options you have.
Jacqueline DeMarco  •  Apr 10, 2026
How Do You Know If You Have a Septic Tank?
How do you know if you have a septic tank? We’re breaking down how septic systems work, what they cost, how to maintain your tank, and who can repair one.
Audrey Bruno  •  Apr 10, 2026
How Long Can You Use a Collapsed Septic Tank Before It Needs to Be Replaced?
How long can you use a collapsed septic tank? The truth is that you shouldn’t at all to avoid irreparable property damage and health risks.
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Common Septic Tank Service Questions

Several things can ruin a septic tank over time, including dumping harsh chemicals (like bleach and ammonia), pesticides, and paint thinners down your drain because they can kill the bacteria in your septic tank. You should also make sure to only flush waste and toilet paper in your toilet—otherwise, you could clog your system.

Pumping involves opening the tank lid, removing solids and wastewater, and inspecting components for wear or damage to maintain optimal function.

Most septic tanks need to be emptied every 3 to 5 years, but it’s a good idea to monitor the fill levels of your septic tank all the time. You can do this by installing a pressure level sensor to detect the internal tank pressure, or by having a septic tank company perform an annual inspection to let you know when you’ll need to pump the tank.

When a septic tank is full, it needs to be professionally pumped. The average cost of a one-time septic tank pump is about $400, or $0.30 per gallon. If your septic tank is full, you may notice that you have issues flushing your toilet, pipes are draining very slowly, or you have a sewage smell lingering in your home or yard.

Baking soda does very little to nothing for a septic tank, but it can help unclog a drain or clean out a garbage disposal. Rotten tomatoes and yeast are the best ways to increase the bacteria in your septic tank naturally. You can add these to your system once every three months.