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
D.P. Taylor  •  May 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.
Amy Pawlukiewicz  •  May 22, 2026
Why Septic Tank Pumping Is Crucial for Maintaining Your System
Caring for your septic system properly can mean the difference between paying a few hundred dollars and paying thousands of dollars for a replacement.
Gemma Johnstone  •  May 22, 2026
9 Common Septic System Myths You Need to Know
Certain maintenance and repair suggestions for septic systems can do more harm than good. Learn about 9 common septic system myths and their better alternatives.
Matt Marandola  •  May 22, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About Septic Tank Maintenance (Including How Often to Pump It)
Whether you’ve had a septic tank for years or it’s your first one, you need to know how to live with one. This guide covers septic tank maintenance for a long-lasting system.
Annie Sisk  •  May 22, 2026
Increase Your Septic System’s Lifespan With These 5 Tips
Your home’s septic system needs a little TLC to keep running efficiently. Follow these tips to extend your septic system’s useful lifespan.
Paige Bennett  •  May 22, 2026
Here’s What to Put in a Septic Tank to Break Down Solids
Sludge buildup in a septic tank is natural, but it needs to go somewhere eventually. Learn what to put in a septic tank to break down solids efficiently.
Jamie Cattanach  •  May 22, 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.
Amy Freeman  •  May 22, 2026
5 Questions to Ask About Your Septic System
Slow drains, gurgling, and foul smells are signs your septic tank may need to be emptied. Here are questions for your septic system pro on how to maintain it.
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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.