Frequently Asked Questions
For more detailed information, check out our Industry Resources page or explore trusted guidance from the University of Minnesota’s Onsite Sewage Treatment Program.
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No, we don’t provide pumping services, but we work closely with several reliable local pumpers and are happy to point you in the right direction. In most cases, septic tanks should be pumped every 2–3 years to remove solid buildup so it doesn’t get carried into the drainfield. If you’re not sure whether you need pumping or a different type of service, we can help you sort that out.
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A septic compliance inspection evaluates an existing septic system to determine whether it meets current regulations and is functioning as intended. If deficiencies are found, the inspector is required to report the results to the local governing unit (LGU). Compliance inspections are typically used for property transfers, refinancing, permits, or situations where official documentation is needed.
A site assessment is different — it evaluates the property and the existing system to identify recommended improvements, but the results are not submitted to the LGU. Site assessments are used for planning, troubleshooting, or understanding what upgrades or changes may be needed. If issues are noted, they are shared with the property owner only and are not reported to the county.
We can help with either of these but for more information about Septic Compliance Inspections, see our Compliance Inspection page.
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No. These flows are not considered sewage and should be discharged through a sump pump or another appropriate outlet. Sending water softener or treatment system backwash into your septic system can overload it, and excessive flows may lead to premature system failure.
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A septic alarm is designed to alert you that something isn’t working the way it should. Most alarms are tied to the pump system, so when the alarm sounds, it usually means the pump isn’t moving wastewater out of the tank the way it’s supposed to.
Common reasons include:
The pump isn’t turning on
A float is stuck or not working correctly
There’s a wiring or control panel issue
The pump chamber is filling higher than normal
Too much water is entering the system at once
If your alarm is sounding, stop running water and call for service. The alarm doesn’t always mean there’s an emergency, but it does mean the system needs attention before it turns into something bigger.
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Rejuvenation restores a drainfield that’s struggling but not fully failed. It can extend the life of your system and delay the need for replacement.
You can learn more on our Drainfield Rejuvenation page.
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Common signs include slow drains, gurgling, sewage odors, wet spots in the yard, or water backing up into fixtures. If you’re noticing any of these, it’s best to address them early.
If you’re already seeing a backup, our guide explains what to do next. -
Stop using water, avoid running appliances, and don’t try to flush the system repeatedly. Backups can feel stressful, but they’re often easier to resolve than they seem.
You can read our short guide on what to do when your septic system backs up. -
Slow drains can be caused by a blockage, a frozen line, a full tank, or a problem in the drainfield.
If you’re noticing early warning signs, our Jetting & Line Cleaning or Winter Services pages can help you understand what might be happening.
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A good design starts with understanding your property, soil, and daily use. We take the time to create a system that fits your home and meets local requirements.
You can learn more on our Septic Designs page or read our blog about why good design matters.