FAQs

Septic systems don't have a set lifespan. With proper maintenance, your septic system can last for decades without the need for replacement. However, if your system fails or deteriorates due to poor maintenance, its lifespan is significantly shortened. The best way to get a rough estimate of how much longer your septic system will last is to have it inspected by a septic system installer or repair professional. If your tank is well-maintained, the installation date can give you an idea of how long it will last. As an experienced septic contractor in Elk River, MN, we can help approximate how long your system will last.

When your septic system isn't pumped, the gases released by sewage waste build up and can accelerate the deterioration of your septic tank. By having your septic system pumped, you can slow down the rate of deterioration. It's important to note, however, that deterioration is inevitable. Proper maintenance, including regular pumping, can help your septic system last longer. In our experience as a septic contractor in Elk River, MN, to avoid the cost of a brand-new tank, pumping your septic system every two or three years is the best thing you can do.

Septic systems are designed to refill quickly, as the purpose of pumping is to remove non-biodegradable waste, not the water itself. Once your septic system is pumped and you resume using water in your home, your tank will quickly refill to maintain proper functionality. If the water level rises above the outlet line, contact your septic system service provider for assistance. Our team can take a look if you need a septic contractor in Elk River, MN.

When performing an inspection, we ensure that your septic system is in good working order and meets the requirements to qualify for a Certificate of Compliance. Homeowners often have their systems inspected when preparing to sell, as an inspection can increase the value of a home when sellers can demonstrate that it's been inspected by a septic system professional certified by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. As an experienced septic contractor in Elk River, MN, we'll check that the liquid in your septic tank is at the correct level during the inspection. We'll also verify that there is no surface-level discharge, assess whether the level of solid waste indicates it needs to be pumped, and identify any necessary repairs to improve system functionality.

Backed-up drains that empty slowly are not always major causes for concern. Check first to make sure that nothing is clogging your drain before assuming it's a problem with your septic system. In our experience as a septic contractor in Elk River, MN, if only one plumbing fixture in your home is draining slowly, there's a good chance that it's clogged. However, if all of the drains in your home drain slowly or leave waste backed up, your septic system likely needs to be inspected and may need to be pumped.

When your septic system fails, you may experience minor problems like broken or interrupted pipes, often caused by intersecting tree roots. However, septic system failure can also mean that your septic tank has deteriorated to the point of needing replacement. Ideally, a clogged drainfield won't be your issue, as it is often the most expensive part of your system to replace in our experience as a septic contractor in Elk River, MN. However, if it's your responsibility to address a clogged drainfield, you likely can't afford to delay repairs, as continued waste backup can damage your home. Signs of a clogged drainfield include slow-draining pipes, wet areas above your tank or drainfield, sewage odors in your yard, or contaminated well water. If you notice these issues, a clogged drainfield is likely, and you'll need to replace it immediately to prevent further contamination of water sources.

As a general rule, only flush human waste and toilet paper. In our time as a septic contractor in Elk River, MN, we've found that flushing medications down the toilet is never a good idea, as they can kill the bacteria in your septic tank that are essential for breaking down solid waste. Additionally, medications can contaminate nearby well water. You should also avoid flushing feminine hygiene products, paper towels, tissues, hair, cat litter (even if labeled flushable), diapers, wipes, condoms, cigarettes, and any other inorganic items. While most septic tanks hold over 1,000 gallons of waste, according to This Old House, flushing inorganic items can quickly lead to clogs, costly repairs, and system failures.

A strong sewage smell coming from your yard could very easily be your septic system, but it could also be coming from something else entirely. Check for propane or gas leaks in your home before deciding that your septic system is to blame. If your gas or propane lines are not leaking, confirm how long it's been since you've had your tank pumped and look for any sewage waste in your yard or other signs of septic system failure. If you need a septic contractor in Elk River, MN to help determine whether your septic system is to blame, don't hesitate to call Custom Septic, Inc.

In our time as a septic contractor in Elk River, MN, we've found that the most common cause for a septic system that fails inspection while appearing to function normally is that the system is still taking water but is too close to the groundwater, which risks contamination.

In our experience as a septic contractor in Elk River, MN, you'll likely be without sewer services for about six hours when you have a new septic system installed.