Frequently Asked Questions
General
How do I prevent septic problems in the future?
Stick to a regular pumping schedule, watch what goes down the drain, fix plumbing leaks early, and keep heavy vehicles off the drainfield. If your system has a filter, clean it as recommended. Small habits go a long way toward avoiding big repairs.
Do I need to be home for septic service?
Not always. For pumping and most inspections, we just need access to the tank and your property. If repairs are involved, we’ll talk things through ahead of time so everyone’s on the same page.
Will you help me find my septic tank?
Yep. Lots of homeowners don’t know where their septic tanks are, and that’s completely normal. We have locating tools to find it quickly.
How do I know what septic service I actually need?
If you have slow drains in the whole house, smells, or backups, call us and describe what’s happening. We’ll point you in the right direction — pumping, repair, or inspection — without trying to upsell you.
What should I never flush into a septic system?
Avoid flushing wipes, grease, paper towels, feminine products, cat litter, Q-tips, and anything labeled “flushable” or “biodegradable.” These items don’t break down properly in a septic system and can cause clogs or backups.
Do you offer free septic estimates?
Yes. We provide free septic estimates for pumping, repairs, inspections, and diagnostics. You’ll get clear pricing upfront so you can make an informed decision without pressure.
What areas do you serve?
We provide septic services throughout the Tri-Cities and Benton and Franklin Counties. If you’re nearby and unsure about coverage, a quick call or text will confirm availability.
Septic Pumping
Do you offer emergency septic service in the Tri-Cities?
Yes. If your septic system is backing up or overflowing, we provide emergency septic pumping in the Tri-Cities to stop damage and restore flow as quickly as possible. Call the Stool Bus, and we’ll get someone out as fast as possible.
What’s the difference between septic pumping and septic cleaning?
Septic pumping removes the liquid and most solids. Septic cleaning goes deeper — breaking up compacted sludge, clearing stubborn solids, and making sure the tank is fully emptied. We do full septic tank cleaning every time, not the “quick vacuum and go” version.
How do I know if my septic tank is full?
Slow drains, gurgling pipes, mystery smells, or soggy patches in the yard are all early warning signs of a full septic tank. If your toilet starts bubbling or backs up, that’s your tank shouting at you. When in doubt, call us — guessing usually ends badly.
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
Most septic tanks should be pumped every 3–5 years. Septic tank size, household size, and water usage all affect pumping frequency. If you’re unsure, we can check sludge levels and help you set a proper septic pumping schedule. See our When to Pump Calculator for a more detailed estimate.
Septic Installation
What kind of maintenance does a new septic system need?
New septic systems still require regular pumping every 3–5 years. Septic filters should be cleaned every 3–6 months, and drainfields should stay free of vehicle traffic.
Can you replace an old septic system?
Yes. We provide septic system replacement, including removal of old tanks and installation of new systems that meet current code and site requirements.
How long does septic installation take?
Most septic system installations take a few days. Soil conditions, access, and system design all affect the timeline, which we’ll review before work begins.
Do you handle septic permits and inspections?
Yes. We manage septic permits, coordination, and required inspections so your new septic system meets local regulations and passes inspection.
Septic Inspections
Do septic inspections include the drainfield?
Yes. Our septic inspections evaluate both the septic tank and drainfield condition, including saturation and performance.
What happens if a septic inspection finds a problem?
We explain what the issue is, how serious it may be, and what repair or maintenance options make sense. You’ll get clear guidance without pressure.
Are you certified for real estate septic inspections?
Yes. We are licensed to perform real estate septic inspections in Benton and Franklin Counties.
Do I need to pump the tank before a septic inspection?
Yes. Septic tank pumping is required before inspection so the system can be fully evaluated. If needed, we’ll coordinate pumping for you.
How long does a septic inspection take?
Most septic inspections take 45–90 minutes depending on access and tank size. A same-day report is provided after completion.
Septic Repair
How do I prevent future septic repair issues?
Regular septic tank pumping, filter maintenance, and early inspections help prevent septic system failures. Catching small issues early reduces the risk of major repairs later.
Do you offer emergency septic repair?
Yes. Emergency septic repair is available for backups, flooding, alarms, or system failures. Quick response helps prevent further damage to your home and drainfield.
What if my septic problem only needs pumping?
If septic pumping solves the issue, that’s what we recommend. Because we handle both septic pumping and septic repair, you’ll get the correct solution without unnecessary work.
How long does septic system repair usually take?
Many septic repairs can be completed the same day or within 24–48 hours. Larger repairs like drainfield repair or sewer line replacement may take longer depending on site conditions.
Do you repair drainfields or just septic tanks?
We repair both septic tanks and drainfields. If drainfield repair is possible, we’ll pursue it. If replacement is necessary, we’ll explain why and outline clear options.
Water & SEWER LINE REPAIR
How long does water or sewer line repair take?
Many sewer and water line repairs are completed the same day. Larger or deeper replacements may take longer depending on conditions.
How do you locate sewer or water line problems?
We use camera inspections, pipe locating equipment, and depth tools to accurately locate sewer and water line issues before digging. That means fewer holes, faster repairs, and no guesswork. You’ll know exactly what we’re fixing and why.
How do I know if my sewer or water line is broken?
Signs of sewer or water line problems include multiple slow drains, sewage odors, soggy ground, or gurgling sounds. When more than one fixture is acting up, it’s almost always a main line problem—not a random clog. If something underground feels “off,” it’s worth getting checked before it turns into a full backup.
Will sewer or water line repair tear up my yard?
Only the necessary area is excavated. Precision locating allows us to limit digging and avoid unnecessary yard damage.
Do you repair or replace the whole sewer or water line?
If a repair will last long-term, we repair. If the pipe is collapsed, severely damaged, or past its lifespan, we recommend replacement—with clear pricing and no pressure. We always explain the “why” before work begins.
