SEPTIC FAQ'S

Septic system alarms can signal several issues, including high water levels, low air pressure in aerobic systems, power interruptions, float switch failures, or pump problems. No matter the cause, the initial response is the same: silence the alarm, reduce water usage, and identify the issue.

IMMEDIATE STEPS (for any alarm):

1. Silence the audible alarm using the button or toggle—do not cut power to the system. The warning light should stay on.
2. Limit water use until the system is confirmed to be operating properly.
3. Check for power issues such as a tripped breaker or GFCI. If power is intact, do not open the tanks—contact a licensed technician.

Give us a call and we’ll help troubleshoot based on your specific system type.

DON’TS:

• Don’t ignore alarms or disable them permanently.
• Don’t run excessive water while the system is in alarm.
• Don’t attempt repairs or open tanks yourself.

If toilets or drains are gurgling, draining slowly, or backing up without a septic alarm, the problem is usually a clog or restriction rather than a system failure. The most common culprits are a clogged septic outlet (effluent) filter or a blockage in the home’s plumbing or main line to the tank.

What to Do:

• Reduce water use immediately. Extra flushing or showering can force sewage back into the home.
• Check other fixtures.
• One slow drain → likely a localized clog; try plunging.
• Multiple slow or gurgling fixtures → likely a main line or septic outlet issue.
• Listen for bubbling or gurgling in nearby drains when water runs elsewhere—this often signals air trapped by a blockage.
• If safely accessible, clean the septic filter: wear gloves, remove the filter, rinse it with a garden hose away from the tank opening, and reinstall securely. Never lean into or enter the tank.
• If issues persist, the blockage may be in the sewer line. Contact a licensed septic provider or plumber for inspection or snaking.

If sewage backs up inside the home, stop all water use and call for emergency septic and cleanup service immediately.

Common Causes:

1. Dirty or clogged effluent filter (clean every 6–12 months)
2. Partial plumbing blockage or grease buildup
3. Roots or a collapsed sewer line between the house and tank
4. Septic tank overdue for pumping
5. Blocked vent pipe causing air pressure issues

Prevention Tips:

• Keep up with regular pumping and filter maintenance
• Never flush wipes, grease, hygiene products, or excess paper
• Keep clean-outs and tank access visible and accessible
• Set reminders for routine filter cleaning

The key is making sure you’re comparing apples to apples.

Reputable septic pumping companies price their work based on how much is pumped and what services are included. If you simply request a septic pumping, you may be quoted a flat rate for a standard 1,000-gallon tank. However, many newer systems have multiple tanks—such as pump tanks or aerobic treatment units (ATUs)—which can increase the overall cost.

Before scheduling service, make sure the company:

Understands your system layout, including the number and types of tanks

Clearly explains pricing, whether for pumping a single tank or the entire system

Knowing exactly what’s included and accurately describing your system helps ensure fair pricing—and prevents unexpected charges later.

Most septic systems do not have alarms that indicate when a tank needs to be pumped, so an alarm alone is rarely the reason.

In some situations, pumping may be required as part of troubleshooting or to allow repairs—for example, emptying a pump chamber so service work can be performed.

Be cautious of anyone who immediately claims an alarm means the system simply needs pumping. A qualified professional should first identify the cause of the alarm, whether it’s a high-water condition, an aeration issue, or a control or electrical problem.

How often should a septic tank be pumped?

It depends on household size and water use, which is why periodic checks are the only reliable way to know. Regular inspections or filter cleanings every 1–2 years help keep the system running efficiently, prevent clogs, and allow pumping to be scheduled before problems occur.

Does a sewage smell in the house mean my septic tank needs to be pumped?

No—indoor sewage odors are most often caused by a dried-out plumbing trap or a venting issue, not a full septic tank. Start by checking unused sinks, tubs, or floor drains and your vent pipes, and if the smell continues, contact a plumber or septic professional to pinpoint the source.

What does a low air alarm mean on an aerobic treatment unit (ATU)?

A low air alarm means the system isn’t receiving enough air from the blower or aerator, which is needed for bacteria to properly treat wastewater. Check power first—on MicroFAST systems, confirm the blower is running in the yard enclosure, and on Whitewater or NuWater systems, check the air pump and reset any tripped GFCI outlet. 

If air flow isn’t restored after confirming power, contact a licensed septic professional, as operating without proper air can lead to odors and reduced treatment performance.

What are the most common reasons a septic alarm goes off?

The two most common causes are leaking toilets and excessive water use. Even a small, silent toilet leak or heavy water use from laundry, long showers, or multiple fixtures can overwhelm the system and trigger a high-water alarm. 

Other causes can include power issues, pump or float problems, or air supply issues on aerobic systems, but leaks and overuse are by far what we see most often.

YCan I plant landscaping over or near my septic system?

Yes, but you need to be selective—deep roots, added soil, or heavy watering can damage tanks, pipes, or drain fields over time. Grass or shallow-rooted ground cover is best, while trees, shrubs, vegetable gardens, and aggressive plants like bamboo or blackberries should be kept well away. 

Keeping the area clear and accessible helps prevent damage and ensures your system can be inspected and serviced when needed.

Yes—it can be a concern and should be checked. Water around riser lids may be caused by surface runoff or poor sealing, but it can also indicate a high water level in the tank or a system issue that needs attention. It’s best to have it inspected promptly to determine the cause and prevent potential backups or damage.

Should I use Rid-X or any additives in my septic system?

No — most septic pros don’t recommend additives like Rid-X, enzymes, or bacterial treatments because healthy systems already have the bacteria they need to break down waste. 

In fact, some additives can interfere with the natural balance or give a false sense of security without improving performance. The best care is regular pumping, sensible water use, and proper maintenance — not additives.

Yes—there are several things that should never go into a septic system. Items like wipes (even “flushable” ones), grease, hygiene products, chemicals, medications, and excessive paper can clog pipes, kill beneficial bacteria, or damage system components. 

To protect your system and avoid costly repairs, only flush human waste and toilet paper and keep everything else out.

My alarm went off—how do I silence it?

Use the silence or mute button on the alarm panel to stop the audible alert, but do not turn off power to the system. The warning light should remain on so the issue can still be monitored. 

After silencing the alarm, reduce water use and contact a septic professional to diagnose the cause.

Several things can cause this, even when no water is being used. Common reasons include a leaking toilet slowly adding water, a pump or float malfunction, a delayed pump cycle, or a power or air supply issue on aerobic systems. 

Even if the alarm clears on its own, it’s a good idea to reduce water use and have the system checked to prevent a repeat issue.

What happens during a septic inspection?

During a septic inspection, the technician evaluates the condition and operation of the system, including the tank(s), pumps, floats, alarms, and visible components. Sludge and scum levels may be checked to determine if pumping is needed, and filters are often inspected or cleaned. 

The goal is to identify potential issues early, confirm the system is functioning properly, and recommend maintenance or repairs if needed.

Do you offer emergency septic service?

Yes, we offer emergency service when needed. If you call our office, the voicemail message provides an emergency number to use after hours. This ensures you can reach us quickly if a septic issue requires immediate attention.