Septic Tank Services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (16 Top-Rated Companies)
Philadelphia is home to thousands of properties that rely on septic systems for wastewater management. Whether you need routine pumping, emergency repair, or a complete system installation, finding a reliable local provider is essential for protecting your property and the environment. We've researched and compiled the 16 top-rated septic tank service companies in Philadelphia, Pennsylvaniato help you make an informed decision.
All companies listed below have been verified and include ratings, reviews, contact information, and service details. We recommend getting quotes from at least 2-3 providers before making your choice. Use the table of contents below to jump to any company, or scroll through to compare all your options.
π Table of Contents
- 1. Preston Heckler Liquid Disposal LLC β β 5 (55 reviews)
- 2. Camerlengo Septic Services LLC β β 5 (16 reviews)
- 3. Profound Flow Drain Cleaning β β 5 (13 reviews)
- 4. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Glenside β β 4.9 (549 reviews)
- 5. Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm β β 4.9 (312 reviews)
- 6. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup β β 4.8 (3750 reviews)
- 7. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup β β 4.8 (891 reviews)
- 8. Daniels Plumbing, Drain Cleaning , Sewer Repair of Philadelphia β β 4.7 (499 reviews)
- 9. Robbins Septic Service β β 4.7 (23 reviews)
- 10. Franc Environmental, A Wind River Company β β 4.6 (184 reviews)
- 11. Drains R Us LLC β β 4.6 (71 reviews)
- 12. Gray Brothers Septic Services & Portable Restrooms - Montgomery, Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia Counties β β 4.5 (47 reviews)
- 13. Stinky's Septic Services β β 4.3 (42 reviews)
- 14. May's Septic Tank Cleaning Services β β 4.3 (34 reviews)
- 15. A & L Septic Service β β 3.7 (56 reviews)
- 16. A Royal Flush Pennsylvania β β 3.2 (11 reviews)
1. Preston Heckler Liquid Disposal LLC
π 400 Arpt Sq Rd, North Wales, PA 19454, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (215) 855-2946
π prestonhecklerliquiddisposal.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Preston Heckler Liquid Disposal LLC provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Preston Heckler Liquid Disposal LLC has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 55 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βKurt and his team were absolutely incredible. We had a sewage grinder issue that lasted over five weeks, and he provided his personal number and was extremely responsive Anytime we needed a short notice pump. He also very clearly tried to go out of his way to ensure we were not over spending, even when it would've helped his own pocketbook to let us do so. Was also more fairly priced than some other local options. Can't say enough about this company and Kurt!!β β Mary Braden, βββββ
βExcellent service and communication. Appreciated Kurtβs patient education as well given this is our first septic system to maintain. Will use Preston Heckler in the future.β β Rob G, βββββ
2. Camerlengo Septic Services LLC
π 1069 Old School Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (267) 424-9478
π www.camerlengosepticservices.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Camerlengo Septic Services LLC provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Camerlengo Septic Services LLC has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 16 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βCamerlengo Septic is hands down one of the most professional and reliable companies Iβve worked with. From the initial call to the completed job, everything was handled clearly, honestly, and efficiently. The crew showed up on time, explained exactly what needed to be done, and took the time to answer every question without rushing. Their work was clean, precise, and done right the first time. You can tell they take pride in what they do and genuinely care about their customers. Pricing was fair, communication was excellent, and the job site was left in great shape when they were finished.β β Cj Bye, βββββ
βI have to say this company is amazing really help me out when no one else would came out on a Sunday morning to help everyone else wanted a extra charge to come on a Sunday I told him my pipes were backing up into my house he came right out went over my system with me showed and explained everything I highly recommend this company the owner was such a nice guyβ β Todd Desmond, βββββ
3. Profound Flow Drain Cleaning
π 10 School Ln Unit 1, Folcroft, PA 19032, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (484) 908-0250
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Profound Flow Drain Cleaning provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Profound Flow Drain Cleaning has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 13 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI highly recommend Profound flow!! Jason was a pleasure to deal with, they were on time and there was no surprise with the price, it was exactly what was proposed. If there were 6 stars to give I would. Him and his team were very knowledgeable, extremely professional, and super personable!! Profound flow has a customer for life. I had a sewer main backup in the basement after I had just paid a previous contractor twice to clear it only for it to backup 2 days later the first time and not even 24 hours later the second was told there was nothing else he could do. Itβs been a week now since the guys at Profound Flow have fixed the problem and no backup!!!β β Tongtong Sun, βββββ
βWe woke up one morning to a soaking wet basement. The sewer main and backed up into the laundry room. ProFound Flow was quick to respond to my calls, get a guy on site and complete the hydro jet of the main drain. That day we were back to normal and we were able to run water. This is huge for a family of 5. Thanks to Jay and his awesome team for the exceptional service. Highly recommend this company!β β Kyle Dailey, βββββ
4. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Glenside
π 114 Montgomery Ave, Oreland, PA 19075, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (215) 703-9179
π www.mrrooter.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Glenside provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Glenside has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 549 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βFirst time customers. Upstairs toilet leaking when flushed. Luckily we have an inside contact :) at Mr. Rooter/Oreland, PAβ¦ Very luckyπ. Within 30 minutes or less, Tyler was dispatched to our house. He checked out the situation as expected, let us know what the issues were, and provided us with a very reasonable repair estimate. Weβre very pleased with Tylerβs efficient service, professionalism and friendliness. We have no hesitation recommending Mr. Rooter. And if any future plumbing issues (knock on wood!), weβd request Tyler knowing from his visit, his work ethic and resolving the issue at hand. But you can be sure all the Mr. Rooter plumbing staff are very experienced, competent and expeditious!β β Karen D Coughlin, βββββ
βI set up an appointment for someone to come out and check a leak from a faucet. Tyler and Nick came and we hit some real problems with the water shutoff, they were both so nice and attentive until that was resolved that it made me more relaxed. Tyler ran into some other problems but was able to complete all the problems and the cost was very reasonable for the time and work done.β β Kathy Vitelli, βββββ
5. Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm
π 504 Eagle Rd STE B, Springfield, PA 19064, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (610) 471-4770
π www.4delval.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Delaware Valley Septic, Sewer & Storm has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 312 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βOutstanding service and guidance doing soil testing to determine what type of system is suitable for our ~2.5 acre lot. Nestor (who was on site all day) was exceptionally knowledgable and helpful doing thorough planning & analysis together with the soil scientist Michael who joined him. Planning and support along the way were first rate from TJ at the DelVal Septic main office. Don't yet have the invoice so can't comment on price, but we would use this team again in a heartbeat. Thank you DelVal!!β β Klaus Esser, βββββ
βThis company is absolutely amazing! They have truly been a blessing to work with and have helped me out tremendously during my difficult time. Iβve had the most experience with technician Jim and manager TJ. Truly great guys. I recommend this business!!β β Stephanie Diaz, βββββ
6. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
π 3515 Frankford Ave Unit 1, Philadelphia, PA 19134, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (215) 441-4145
π www.rotorooter.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 3750 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βHad a toilet overflow, sewage flooded basement. Roto Rooter has been great. From initial fixing frozen sewer line to remediation. Tyler walked me through whole process & Kevin did the clean up..I could be more happy. Very professional & courteous, fast & on time. Price was reasonable for emergency services. Coupons came in handy. Will use againβ β Amiee Clarke, βββββ
βResponse was 30 minutes after the call. Brian the tech identified the problem, called your adjuster Tim. Both were here both gave great service. Both gentlemen were awesome, professional and friendly. If I had any worries they explained and put me at ease. Great job guys and thank youβ β John J, βββββ
7. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
π 2600 S 9th St #1F, Philadelphia, PA 19148, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (215) 220-6318
π www.rotorooter.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 891 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βRoto-Rooter came within 2 hours of when I called. Having a backed up kitchen sink 2 days before Christmas is not fun. The technician was great! He gave me an estimate and when I gagged, he gave me a discount that was better than their on-line coupon. He also made sure to tell me the work came with a 6 month guarantee. My regular plumber's is only 2 months. He quickly started to work and removed the clog from the main pipe. He also told me the configuration of the current pipes was not ideal, which I knew. But unlike my regular plumber who quoted me an estimate to fix the configuration, this technician told me how to fix it myself. Great guy! He saved me money and my Christmas baking! I would definitely recommend Roto-Rooter!β β Kevyn Rakowski, βββββ
βAlvaro was an amazing calming presence in a time of panic today. He guided me through what needed to be done when my hot water handle flew off the sink. Thankfully I was able to find the whole house water shut-off valve to avoid totally calamity in my rental that it would have been before he arrived. He was patient and calm in the face of my frazzled condition. Highly recommend Alvaro!β β Emily Welsh, βββββ
8. Daniels Plumbing, Drain Cleaning , Sewer Repair of Philadelphia
π 5915 Torresdale Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19135, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (267) 650-3418
π daniels-plumbing.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Daniels Plumbing, Drain Cleaning , Sewer Repair of Philadelphia provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Daniels Plumbing, Drain Cleaning , Sewer Repair of Philadelphia has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 499 customer reviews and a 4.7-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βMan let me say this best plumbing in the city hands down... Danny explained everything to the tee made sure the job was good and clean thats important clean some of you other guy need to ask this man about a real business cause he got it down packed great job today wish I could give more stars and price is right price is right baby...β β Joshua Roebuck, βββββ
βDanielβs Plumbing is an absolute scam operation hiding behind fake βprofessionalβ reviews. They came to my house for what shouldβve been a simple toilet gasket replacement. Instead of fixing it, they lied and said the part couldnβt be found, then tried to upsell me a new toilet for $800. They also claimed my shower needed to be torn out (drywall and all) and replaced for $3,000. I trusted my gut, did some research, and found the toilet part myself for $25 and fixed it in minutes. As for the shower, it turns out it was a simple wall panel held by bracketsβno drywall removal needed. I replaced it myself for $200. Total cost? $225 compared to their ridiculous $3100 βestimate.β When I requested a refund of the $290 I initially paid, they sent it immediately which is clearly a tactic to avoid public complaints and keep their inflated rating. Donβt be fooled by their reviews. They prey on homeowners who donβt know plumbing, pushing unnecessary work and outrageous prices. If you value honesty and professionalism, stay far away from Danielβs Plumbing.β β Francesco Tesei, β
9. Robbins Septic Service
π 3008 Hauck Rd, Green Lane, PA 18054, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (215) 234-8314
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 9:00β―AMβββ5:00β―PM
Robbins Septic Service provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Robbins Septic Service has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 23 customer reviews and a 4.7-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βWe have had top notch service from Robbins. They are always prompt, efficient and complete their job. Our aging property has required emergency service a couple of times. Even on a Sunday morning (again) they managed a smile for our latest fiasco. We became a customer for the great price. Their care has earned our loyalty.β β doug yerk, βββββ
βRobbins is very responsive and helpful. They arrived timely and were Super pleasant. Monica who answers the phone is also really friendly and courteous. I have used several times over the years.β β Deb Gaugler, βββββ
10. Franc Environmental, A Wind River Company
π 960 Jacksonville Rd, Ivyland, PA 18974, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (215) 261-5790
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Franc Environmental, A Wind River Company provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Franc Environmental, A Wind River Company has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 184 customer reviews and a 4.6-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βCalled on Sunday because my grinder pump was running continuously. I was told somebody would call me back in 24-48 hours to schedule an appointment. Called back on Monday, I was told somebody would call me back in 24-48 hours to schedule an appointment. Today is Wednesday, end of business, and still nobody has called. Before Frank environmental was purchased by these guys, they were responsive and trustworthy. They would have been here within a day! Here I have been waiting three days only to schedule the appointment.β β Francesca Zappacosta, β
βWe had an ongoing sewer pump problem. Wind river offers a solution that has worked. Very professional team. James kept us informed on the progress of installation of a sewer pump we desperately needed. Pricing was fair on the unit and service. Would recommend this firm.β β Neil Brown, βββββ
11. Drains R Us LLC
π 7521 Buist Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19153, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (267) 549-7430
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 8:00β―AMβββ7:00β―PM
Drains R Us LLC provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Drains R Us LLC has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 71 customer reviews and a 4.6-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βFast and reliable! Tuan Vu and his team arrived within an hour and replaced the heater in under two. They even helped with the warranty call. Bonus: he's the only Vietnamese plumber I know -highly recommend!β β Tram Phan, βββββ
βI asked Drains R Us to install a dishwasher and also a valve for a refrigerator. They said the cost is going to be $250 for installing a dishwasher and $150 for installing a valve. Two hours later, a plumber arrived and started working on the dishwasher. He installed dishwasher after about 90 minutes. However, there was a junction box under the former dishwasher to connect the power lines. The plumber told me that dishwasher cannot slide in completely and it would stay about 4 inches outside due to the junction box. I asked him to mount it on the wall but he refused. Ultimately, I asked him to let me pull the wires under the floor of the kitchen (in the basement) and asked him to connect the wires in the basement instead of on the kitchen (to let dishwasher slide in completely). I pulled down the wires myself and he came to the basement and connected the power lines in the junction box in the basement, instead of the kitchen. Later he charged me $75 for extra work, which is coming to the basement! He had to connect the same wires in the kitchen but when I pulled the wires to the basement and asked him to connect them in the basement but he charged me an extra $75!! Here is a photo of their work.β β Ryan, β
12. Gray Brothers Septic Services & Portable Restrooms - Montgomery, Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia Counties
π 501 S Main St, Spring City, PA 19475, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (610) 644-2800
π www.graybrothersseptic.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Gray Brothers Septic Services & Portable Restrooms - Montgomery, Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia Counties provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Gray Brothers Septic Services & Portable Restrooms - Montgomery, Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia Counties has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 47 customer reviews and a 4.5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βWe have been using this company for over 25 years. They are very efficient show up when expected and always leave me as a satisfied customer. One of the best in the area. Best regards, Gary D.β β Gary Dipietro, βββββ
βWe use Gray Brothers for our septic cleanout. They send reminders when it is due and provide the paperwork needed for the township. Their service is always great.β β SJ Sacchetta, βββββ
13. Stinky's Septic Services
π 462A NJ-31, Lambertville, NJ 08530, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (609) 466-5422
π stinkysseptic.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 8:00β―AMβββ5:00β―PM
Stinky's Septic Services provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Stinky's Septic Services has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 42 customer reviews and a 4.3-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βStinky we have been using yearly past 4-5 years. They have professional employees & always been a great experience. There drivers & office are kind & they follow through what they say. Jimmy & Deb Pirozzoliβ β James Pirozzoli, βββββ
βExcellent service! The team was prompt, professional, and very knowledgeable. They explained everything clearly, worked efficiently, and left the area clean. I highly recommend them for any septic system needs!β β Katerina Bubnovsky, βββββ
14. May's Septic Tank Cleaning Services
π Hunlock Creek, PA 18621, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (570) 256-6297
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
May's Septic Tank Cleaning Services provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. May's Septic Tank Cleaning Services has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 34 customer reviews and a 4.3-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βThey came out over two months ago dumped a bunch of septic sludge in the yard said theyβd take care of it with acknowledgment of the land owner and never came back and the overflow is not fixed needs a new septic lineβ β Stacy Ringer, β
βJohn said he was coming 3 days in row never showed up or called never called ..Most of his stuff I anβ β Robert Demaio, β
15. A & L Septic Service
π 1376 NJ-38, Hainesport, NJ 08036, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (609) 267-6411
π alseptic.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 7:30β―AMβββ8:30β―PM
A & L Septic Service provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A & L Septic Service has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 56 customer reviews and a 3.7-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βSean T. was our driver/operator today for a pump out septic service and we cannot say enough about our experience with him. He was extremely knowledgeable about our pump out and very kind and professional. We would definitely recommend this company for your home needs. Thank you Sean T. and the lady on the phone call to take our appointment. Very professional and great service. Happy New Year.β β Deb DeGroff, βββββ
βI had an excellent experience my septic light came on, I called this morning, and they were out within an hour. Sean, the technician, was amazingβhe diagnosed the issue on the spot, pumped out the system, and had everything up and running in under two hours. Such a reliable and efficient company. Thank you so much, and a special thanks to Sean!β β JUSTIN GLIEM, βββββ
16. A Royal Flush Pennsylvania
π 3401 S 26th St, Philadelphia, PA 19145, USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
π (877) 812-4453
π www.aroyalflush.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 7:00β―AMβββ5:00β―PM
A Royal Flush Pennsylvania provides professional septic services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A Royal Flush Pennsylvania has earned a reputation for quality service in the Philadelphia area, with 11 customer reviews and a 3.2-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βOne star because of my profound disappointment regarding the recent experiences with the portable restroom services at our remodeling sites located in residential areas. One morning at 6:30 AM, a service vehicle arrived to service the unit located behind the driveway gate. Given the residential setting, such early service calls are not ideal. Upon contacting your company to adjust the service schedule, I left multiple messages, none of which were returned by management. After numerous attempts, I managed to speak with a representative who unfortunately was unable to provide a satisfactory resolution. Consequently, I requested the removal of both units. Despite my repeated requests, I was unable to speak with anyone in a supervisory role, nor did I receive any follow-up. This level of service falls short of professional standards, and I am disappointed by the apparent lack of willingness to address and resolve the issue.β β Solution Based, β
βI've used them for two years now for my job and have no complaints. Their service is prompt, they accommodate our weird circumstances, customer service is great and every staff member is kind. Highly highly recommend!β β Kat, βββββ
How to Choose a Septic Service Provider in Philadelphia
Selecting the right septic service company is crucial for maintaining your system and protecting your investment. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a provider in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania:
- Check licensing and insurance: Verify the company holds valid state and local licenses and carries liability insurance.
- Read reviews: Look for consistent positive feedback about quality of work, punctuality, and professionalism.
- Get multiple quotes: Compare prices from at least 2-3 companies. Be wary of quotes significantly lower than average.
- Ask about experience: Choose companies with experience in your type of system (conventional, aerobic, mound, etc.).
- Verify services offered: Ensure they provide the specific service you need (pumping, repair, inspection, installation).
- Check response time: For emergencies, ask about availability and response times.
Taking time to research providers now can save you money and headaches later. A quality septic company will provide honest assessments, fair pricing, and reliable service.
Average Septic Service Costs in Pennsylvania
Understanding typical costs helps you budget for septic services and recognize fair pricing. Here are average costs for common septic services in Pennsylvania:
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Septic Pumping | $300 β $600 |
| Septic Inspection | $100 β $250 |
| Septic Tank Installation | $3,000 β $10,000 |
| Septic Repair | $500 β $3,000 |
| Drain Field Repair/Replacement | $2,000 β $10,000 |
*Costs vary based on tank size, accessibility, system type, and specific conditions. Always get written quotes before work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I pump my septic tank?
Most septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on household size, tank capacity, and water usage. A family of four with a 1,000-gallon tank typically needs pumping every 3 years. Regular pumping prevents solids from entering the drain field and extends your system's lifespan.
How much does septic pumping cost in Philadelphia?
Septic pumping in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania typically costs between $300 and $600, depending on tank size (750-1,500 gallons), accessibility, and the service provider. Request quotes from multiple companies listed above for the best price.
What are signs my septic system needs repair?
Warning signs include: slow drains throughout the house, sewage odors near the tank or drain field, standing water or soggy spots in the yard, gurgling sounds in pipes, unusually lush grass over the drain field, and sewage backing up into the home. If you notice any of these, contact a professional immediately.
Do I need a permit for septic installation in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania requires permits for new septic system installations and most major repairs. Permits ensure systems meet health and environmental standards. Your septic installer will typically handle the permit process, but fees are usually $200-$1,000 depending on your location.
How long does a septic system last?
A well-maintained septic system can last 25-40 years or more. Concrete tanks last the longest (40+ years), while steel tanks may only last 15-20 years before rusting. The drain field typically lasts 20-30 years. Regular pumping, proper use, and prompt repairs are key to maximizing your system's lifespan.
What is the difference between a septic tank and sewer?
A septic system is a private, on-site wastewater treatment system owned and maintained by the homeowner. A sewer system connects your home to a municipal treatment plant that processes wastewater from the entire community. Septic systems require regular pumping (every 3-5 years), while sewer systems charge monthly fees for centralized treatment.