Septic Questions and Answers
Pumping and maintenance
How often does a septic tank need to be pumped?
The EPA puts it at every three to five years for most homes. Bigger households, smaller tanks and heavy water use all shorten that. More in how often to pump a septic tank.
How often should a 1,000-gallon septic tank be pumped?
For a household of three or four, about every three years is a reasonable starting point. A couple may go closer to five. After the first pump-out, the provider can tell you from the sludge level whether to adjust.
Can a septic tank go 20 years without being pumped?
It's risky. Over that long, solids usually build up until they spill into the drainfield and clog it, and a clogged drainfield is far more expensive to fix than a pump-out.
Is pumping the same as cleaning?
For most homeowners, yes: both mean emptying the tank with a vacuum truck. Jetting the lines is a separate service.
Should I use septic additives?
Additives are optional. If you choose to use one, the EPA's advice is to follow the label. No additive replaces pumping: solids still build up and have to be removed.
What shouldn't go down the drain?
Wipes (including "flushable" ones), paper towels, floss, cat litter, grease, paint, harsh chemicals and medicines. They clog the tank or harm the bacteria that break down waste.
Costs
How much does septic pumping cost in Texas?
Usually a few hundred dollars for a typical 1,000-gallon home tank. National averages for that size run about $300 to $700, and some Texas estimates start lower. See septic pumping cost in the RGV.
Why do prices vary so much?
Tank size, buried lids, how overdue the tank is, distance and access, and whether the visit is urgent all change the price. The provider confirms the price before starting.
Problems
What are the signs my septic tank is full?
Slow drains throughout the house, gurgling toilets, sewage smells outside and soggy ground over the tank or drainfield. See signs your septic tank is full.
Why does my house smell like sewage?
Often a dry drain trap in a rarely used drain or a loose toilet seal. If it comes with slow drains or backups, the tank may be full. See why your septic tank smells.
My yard is flooded after a storm. Should I pump the tank?
Not while the ground is flooded. Pumping a tank in saturated soil can make it shift or float. Use as little water as you can and wait for the ground to drain. See septic problems after heavy rain.
Aerobic systems
What is an aerobic septic system?
A system that uses an air pump to treat wastewater and then sprays the treated water on the lawn. You'll recognize it by the control panel and the sprinkler heads.
Do I need a maintenance contract?
For the first two years after installation, Texas rules require one with a licensed maintenance provider. After that, the owner of a single-family home may maintain the system personally, but it still has to be maintained. Commercial and multifamily properties must keep a contract.
The alarm on my aerobic system is on. What now?
Cut back on water and call a provider. The alarm usually means a high water level or a part that has stopped working.
Permits and licenses
Do I need a permit for a new septic system?
Yes. Installing or changing a septic system in Texas needs a permit from the local permitting authority, and the work must be done by a licensed installer. See septic tank installation.
Who issues septic permits in the Valley?
In Hidalgo County, the county does, including for the City of McAllen. In Cameron County, the county's environmental health office handles permits and inspections. Inside city limits, check with your city.
How do I check a septic provider's license?
Ask for the license number and look it up on the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) license search. Haulers who pump tanks must also be registered with TCEQ to transport septic waste.
About this service
Who will I be talking to when I call?
An independent local septic provider who serves your area. Valley Septic Help is a referral service; we don't do the work ourselves. See how it works.
Does it cost anything to call?
No. Calling is free. Any price for work is agreed directly between you and the provider.
Still have a question?
Call and ask a local septic provider.