Septic Tank Services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (15 Top-Rated Companies)

Pittsburgh 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 15 top-rated septic tank service companies in Pittsburgh, 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.

1. A A Septic Tank & Drain Service

⭐ 5/5(201 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 1508 Pleasant Valley Rd, Mt Pleasant, PA 15666, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 593-7457

🌐 www.aaseptictankservice.net

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 8:00β€―AM – 5:00β€―PM

A A Septic Tank & Drain Service provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A A Septic Tank & Drain Service has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 201 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œI rarely take the time to write reviews. I don't think I've ever written a negative one, but I had such a horrible experience with this company! I would give zero stars if I could. Unfortunately the technician ran into some problems with our septic tank when he was pumping it. I don't know much about septics, and the technician wasn't explaining things well so I called my husband to try to pass on the info and to ask him questions about it. When I told the technician I couldn't hear him (the technician was too far away, the hose was loud, and we have traffic next to our home) he yelled at me to get off my phone. Really? How rude can you be? This is my property! I told him no. I'm not getting off the phone with my husband. It's safe to say we will never use this company again. We'll find someone else to fix our septic problems.” β€” Deanna Fontaine, ⭐
β€œGreat service driver was knowledgeable and Availability was excellent. Next day service if you need your septic pump pumped out give them a call mrs darlen we will take care of you” β€” joshua jay, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

2. Bruckner Onsite

⭐ 5/5(30 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 1428 PA-519, Eighty Four, PA 15330, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 338-0520

🌐 www.bruckneronsite.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 8:00β€―AM – 5:00β€―PM

Bruckner Onsite provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bruckner Onsite has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 30 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œAnswered the phone. Diagnosed the problem over the phone. Showed up with a truck to scope and jet the lines and clear the septic same day for an emergency . Great service .” β€” Gregory Behling, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œQuick phone call and Ryan and his team where on the job. Called at 8 am I had service at 930 am same day. The price was the best of 7 calls I had made previous. The service, communication and respect I was given as a customer was amazing. Ryan and his team made a stressful situation go away quick. This whole company from office to driver went above and beyond my expectations. This company has earned my business for now on. Every thing from start to finish was very smooth. If you want service ,quick response and no bs. Give this company a try. Trust me I am not the easiest to please. Thanks again. From a very satisfied customer.” β€” Jason Johnson, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

3. Varner's Hilltop Septic Services

⭐ 5/5(14 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 290 Varner Rd, Mineral Point, PA 15942, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (814) 495-3197

🌐 varnersseptic.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 8:00β€―AM – 5:00β€―PM

Varner's Hilltop Septic Services provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Varner's Hilltop Septic Services has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 14 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œSimply the best. Replaced my sewer in my home quickly and so kindly. I highly recommend them. It's a big job but they made it less intimidating. Many thanks guys.” β€” Liz B, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œPrompt same day service. Very friendly and personable. Affordable prices.” β€” Laci Myers, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

4. Podobnik Sanitation

⭐ 5/5(10 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 1115 Keith Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15239, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (412) 793-2421

🌐 apodobniksanitation.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Closed β€” Hours not available

Podobnik Sanitation provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Podobnik Sanitation has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 10 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œSecond time using them, very friendly. Father and son company and I would recommend them to anyone. Very fair pricing also.” β€” April McKinney, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œAndy was great and introduced his son to me. What a great job right on time, Third generation I knew his father too so by the time I got my boots on they were already busy cleaning my septic tank. Very professional and knowledgeable great job.” β€” tom burton, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

5. Drew's Septic Tank Pumping LLC

⭐ 5/5(10 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 42 Terwilliger Rd, Parker, PA 16049, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (814) 758-8781

🌐 www.dstp46.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 8:00β€―AM – 6:00β€―PM

Drew's Septic Tank Pumping LLC provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Drew's Septic Tank Pumping LLC has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 10 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œThis guy is one of the best prompt courteous and fix my issue in no.time” β€” Kathy Smith, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œWe had an emergency and Drew showed up same day when no other company would! The bonus, he was super nice and very informative. I will not go anywhere else for my future needs!” β€” Tasha Haley, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

6. RMC Sanitation

⭐ 5/5(4 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 270 Smith Township State Rd, Burgettstown, PA 15021, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 947-9008

🌐 rmcsanitation.net

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 9:00β€―AM – 4:00β€―PM

RMC Sanitation provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. RMC Sanitation has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 4 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œGreat experience! When you call you get an actual person, I called because I needed my septic tank pump and the came the next day. Quick, Friendly and Professional service. Plus they are reasonably priced. Excellent customer service from start to finish.” β€” Cynthia Delouis-Forsythe, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œWe called this morning to see about a price to get our septic tank cleaned out as we were sensing we were headed towards some potential issues if this wasn't handled promptly. Bob came out within two hours and we discovered the lid to the tank was harder to remove than originally planned. We are grateful for his patience, guidance, and help as we worked through the process to get the lid removed and the cleaning handled. He checked to make sure everything was functioning as needed. Also, customer service when I called was super friendly and helpful with conveying accurate information about our situation. Very pleased with the service we received today and would recommend this company for septic needs based on my good experience today. Thanks! πŸ˜Šβ€ β€” Autumn, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

7. Top Septic Tank Service

⭐ 4.9/5(128 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 1508 Pleasant Valley Rd, Mt Pleasant, PA 15666, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 547-3697

🌐 topseptictankservice.net

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 8:00β€―AM – 5:00β€―PM

Top Septic Tank Service provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Top Septic Tank Service has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 128 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œDarlene and the owner went up and beyond great service!!! I had a emergency and Top Septic was able to be at my location within 24 hours to help. I highly recommend this company. Thanks for your great service again. Dave Navarro” β€” David Navarro, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œWe had our tank drained and the lid was warped. Darlene put us on the service schedule asap and Mike and the team came within a week and installed a riser to remedy the issue: Mike was exceptionally kind, available and generous with his time. They completed the work in a timely fashion and shared options for the go forward.” β€” Scott Sherbondy, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

8. K & M Septic Tank Cleaning

⭐ 4.9/5(73 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 1223 Plain Grove Rd, Volant, PA 16156, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 735-2978

🌐 www.kandmseptic.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 7:30β€―AM – 6:00β€―PM

K & M Septic Tank Cleaning provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. K & M Septic Tank Cleaning has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 73 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œK&M is a top-notch company. From the minute that friendly, sweet voice of Karen answered the telephone, scheduling us in an urgent manner, I knew once again, we were in good hands. Logan arrived in his well kept truck and went right to work. Logan is a very nice young man with great work ethics; you can tell he comes from a family of a long-line of hard workers. We highly recommend K&M. Very friendly, priced right, so knowledgeable & informative. Give them a call !! You will not be disappointed!! πŸ˜πŸ‘πŸΌπŸ‘πŸΌβ€ β€” Toni Tiche, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œThe service we received from K&M was top notch from start to finish. We had an emergency service need and communication was excellent from the first call until Ira arrived. Ira went above and beyond while he was on-site. I can't thank the entire team enough for their excellent service! Keep up the great work and we look forward to seeing you next time.” β€” Joshua Meyer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

9. Ken's Septic Service LLC

⭐ 4.9/5(22 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 590 Spruce Alley, Punxsutawney, PA 15767, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (814) 618-5669

🌐 www.kenssepticservicellcpa.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 7:00β€―AM – 5:00β€―PM

Ken's Septic Service LLC provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ken's Septic Service LLC has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 22 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œShowed up on a SUNDAY, the day before a holiday and helped us at our recently bought home. It was raining and cold.. He was nice, helpful, and didn’t break the bank! Highly recommended.” β€” Kristi Peace, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œCame and pumped my Septic but when my issue didn’t change, told me to call a plumber. The issue was with a clog from bottom stack to septic that was causing my shower to back up (plumber told me) and have gas come up through my drains and needed to be handled by a septic company, but they won’t do that. After working with a plumber for three weeks, I ended up calling William and Son. Did pump my Septic though if that’s all you need and was good about returning calls. Update: just had William and Son come out and said they didn’t know how he even did anything. He didn’t even find the manhole cover just sucked it through a pipe. Did the bare minimum.” β€” J, ⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

10. Weaver Septic Cleaning

⭐ 4.9/5(12 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 224 Valley Church Rd, Emlenton, PA 16373, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (814) 498-2340

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Closed β€” Hours not available

Weaver Septic Cleaning provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Weaver Septic Cleaning has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 12 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œVery nice people to work with. We got same day service and they did a great job. They're very knowledgeable.” β€” Nick Ritchey, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œDefinitely my go to…..Very nice, friendly and fast service. Highly recommend Doug Weaver, he gets the job done right!” β€” Fawn Feroz, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

11. Economy Septic Service

⭐ 4.8/5(56 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 535 Park Quarry Rd, Freedom, PA 15042, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 775-1269

🌐 economyseptic.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 8:00β€―AM – 5:00β€―PM

Economy Septic Service provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Economy Septic Service has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 56 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œCustomer service you can brag about! When dealing with septic issues or maintenance you want professionals that are transparent from the initial call to the final invoice. I called this company with an emergency and they were able to come out and help within 24 hours. It’s better to schedule on advance but we don’t always get that option. It’s nice to know either way they will do their best to provide service you will brag about!” β€” Jacob Fitzpatrick, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œJustin is astounding and provided exceptional service. He is truly unmatched. He was very kind and respectful and genuinely focused on helping rather than profiting. I appreciate him taking the time to understand our situation. It’s rare to find a company that leads with integrity. They have found a lifelong customer in us and I’ll be sure to recommend them as much as I possibly can. If you’re looking for a company that’ll put you first, call them!” β€” Jordan, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

12. Stoughton Septic

⭐ 4.8/5(34 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 155 Bish Rd, Chicora, PA 16025, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 445-3377

🌐 stoughtonsepticbutler.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 7:00β€―AM – 9:00β€―PM

Stoughton Septic provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Stoughton Septic has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 34 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œMr. Stoughton is awesome. He was at my farm within 2 hours of calling him to pump out a septic tank on Christmas Eve of all times. He was friendly, shared his knowledge and was very efficient. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Stoughton Septic will be who I call first from now on.” β€” Jennifer Bevington, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œLewis is a life saver! We a had sewage back up into our downstairs bathroom. After spending a bunch of money on a plumber who couldn't help us, Lewis came, cleared the blockage, and pumped our septic. Not only that, he did it a few hours after we called, on a holiday no less! Hard to find good service like this these day. Thanks again Lewis!” β€” Michael Savannah, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

13. Hapchuk, A Wind River Company

⭐ 4.6/5(94 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 226 Rankin Rd, Washington, PA 15301, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 517-7372

🌐 www.wrenvironmental.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” Open 24 hours

Hapchuk, A Wind River Company provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Hapchuk, A Wind River Company has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 94 customer reviews and a 4.6-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œI personally spoke with Ryan after finding out that he verbally gave details of the inspection report to a potential buyer, and told him how he had no right to gossip about our property. I had no idea he sent our report out to an uninterested party. Speak to your employee Ryan for the particulars. We will also send an email outlining the damages incurred by this unauthorized act.” β€” Dale Ross, ⭐
β€œWe have used Hapchuk for years & never had an issue until this year. They were always kind, on time & answered any question. This year, I booked an afternoon time frame. Between 12-4. I expressed when I booked the appt I needed to speak with the guys doing the work. We had questions about it. They never called me when they were on their way, showed up at 11 or so when I wasn’t home & I had no idea they came. I waited all afternoon until I called & they said it was done. I requested a call back from the guys doing it bc we will be needing it replaced soon & I had some questions about the one we have now. They said they couldn’t guarantee anything. Why?? I paid for a service & had questions & you can’t call me? I know a bigger company bought them out & it shows. They have an answering service now. I’ll never use them again & asked our family to find a small local business to use instead. Which I’ve found one. It’s sad bc they had such a good reputation. I hate leaving negative reviews but not completing a service you pay a good bit for is not good customer service.” β€” Kelly Chester, ⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

14. R&D Watters Septic Service

⭐ 4.5/5(13 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 1564 E Roy Furman Hwy, Carmichaels, PA 15320, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (724) 966-2477

🌐 www.rdwatters.com

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” 8:00β€―AM – 4:00β€―PM

R&D Watters Septic Service provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. R&D Watters Septic Service has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 13 customer reviews and a 4.5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œAndy came out from R&D Watters to clean out my sewage system. Andy was extremely efficient and polite. He made sure he took care of everything and did an awesome job. Great Job!!” β€” Thomas Mannion, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
β€œEasy to work with. From the phone call till the truck leaves the driveway, this company is about service. Pleasant on the phone, getting out of the truck, looking at the job, doing the job, cleaning up and they are all professionals.” β€” Kenneth Kutcher, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

15. DAP Sewer and Drain

⭐ 4.3/5(36 Google Reviews)

πŸ“ 2728 Spring Garden Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

πŸ“ž (412) 620-8178

πŸ—ΊοΈ Get Directions

πŸ• Hours: Open β€” Open 24 hours

DAP Sewer and Drain provides professional septic services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. DAP Sewer and Drain has earned a reputation for quality service in the Pittsburgh area, with 36 customer reviews and a 4.3-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Pennsylvania.

Services Offered: Septic Services

What Customers Say:

β€œI have called Dave for service, but unfortunately, he is not taking responsibility for the mess that occurred while he was jetting the pipe. He’s not honestβ€”he will find a lot of reasons to blame on you. He was supposed to come back but never did. We are not going to use him again. However, if you call him for service, make sure not to pay right away. Ask for an invoice and wait at least 10 days before making the payment. This will give you assurance that if something goes wrong, he will come back and make it right!” β€” Kimal Mamedov, ⭐
β€œDave from DAP is very dependable. Each time we have had plumbing issues at our HQ, we call him directly. DAP has (or has access to) every cutting-edge plumbing tool imaginable and they are willing to do almost any type of contractor work (though, in transparency, we have only employed Dave for plumbing issues). Dave is polite and does not beat around the bush. He is knowledgeable, experienced and never fails to meticulously clean up after his work before he departs. Speaking of, Dave has never left us without ensuring that our problems were completely resolved. That kind of service is seemingly unheard of in our current age. Thank you Dave. We, 100%, absolutely recommend DAP Sewer and Drain for plumbing issues if you're in the south western region of Pennsylvania and require professional help.” β€” Pittsburgh Business Reviews, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

View full profile β†’

How to Choose a Septic Service Provider in Pittsburgh

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 Pittsburgh, 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:

ServiceAverage Cost
Septic Pumping$300 – $600
Septic Inspection$100 – $250
Septic Tank Installation$3,000 – $10,000
Septic Repair$500 – $3,000
Drain Field Repair/Replacement$2,000 – $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 Pittsburgh?

Septic pumping in Pittsburgh, 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.