FAQs

A septic system is an onsite wastewater treatment setup for properties not connected to public sewer. All wastewater from the home enters a septic tank, where solids settle to the bottom and lighter materials float. The partially treated water then flows into a soil-based or engineered system — such as a sand mound, at-grade bed, or advanced treatment unit — where the final purification takes place before re-entering the ground. When installed and maintained correctly, a septic system is safe, reliable, and long-lasting.

Most households need pumping every 3–5 years.

Pump frequency depends on:

• Home occupancy
• Tank size
• Water usage
• Whether garbage disposals or high-volume appliances are used

Routine pumping prevents solids from reaching and damaging the treatment area.

You should schedule an inspection:

• Every 1–2 years for residential homes
• Annually for commercial properties
• Whenever buying or selling a home
• Before renovations or adding bedrooms

Inspections catch problems early and protect both property value and the system’s lifespan.

Big red flags include:

• Slow drains or gurgling pipes
• Sewage backing up
• Wet or spongy areas over the system
• Strong odors outdoors
• Pump tank alarms or high water levels
• Standing water around the drainfield or mound

These indicate the system needs immediate attention.

Avoid flushing or draining:

• Wipes (any kind)
• Grease, fats, oils
• Feminine hygiene products
• Paper towels or tissues
• Bleach, harsh chemicals, or antibacterial cleaners
• Paint, solvents, or automotive fluids
• Cat litter

These items clog pipes, kill essential bacteria, and cause system failure.

A garbage disposal adds a large amount of solids to the tank. While it can work, it increases pumping frequency and strains the system. If you have one, use it sparingly or avoid it altogether.

Keep the area:

• Clear of vehicles, heavy equipment, and structures
• Free of trees or deep-rooted plants
• Dry — no roof drains or sump pumps discharging onto it
• Aerated — avoid compacting the soil with heavy objects

A healthy drainfield is open, dry, and undisturbed.

A well-installed and well-maintained septic system generally lasts 20–40 years. Soil conditions, proper pumping, water usage, and system design all influence lifespan.

If your alarm activates:

1. Stop using water immediately.
2. Check for tripped breakers.
3. Call us right away.

An alarm usually means the pump isn’t working or water levels are too high. Both require quick action.

Before closing, you should:

• Schedule a certified septic inspection
• Review pumping and maintenance records
• Confirm system type and age
• Learn where each component is located
• Ensure the system matches the home’s bedroom count

A real estate septic inspection helps protect buyers from future issues.

Most additives are unnecessary and can actually harm the system. A healthy septic system relies on natural bacteria, proper water usage, routine pumping, and correct installation, not chemicals or “boosters.”

You can extend system life by:

• Fixing leaks quickly
• Spreading out laundry loads
• Using septic-safe soaps and paper products
• Conserving water
• Keeping grease out of drains
• Pumping and inspecting on schedule

Good habits create decades of trouble-free performance.

Yes. Keep trees and shrubs away from the tank and drainfield to prevent root intrusion. Use grass or shallow-rooted plants over the drainfield area. Avoid heavy mulch, rock beds, and dense gardens.

We proudly serve all of Southeastern Pennsylvania, including:

• Montgomery County
• Chester County
• Bucks County
• Delaware County
• And surrounding regions

Yes, we repair all septic system components, including:

• Tanks, lids, and baffles
• Sewer and septic lines
• Pumps, floats, and alarms
• Structural or hydraulic issues

We identify the cause of the problem and repair it correctly.

Because we provide:

• Engineered, code-compliant installations
• Certified inspections
• Honest, reliable repair services
• Clean excavation and workmanship
• Full licensing and insurance
• Deep knowledge of Pennsylvania soils, designs, and regulations

We install, inspect, and repair septic systems the right way every time.

Septic systems are expensive and buried underground. A PSMA inspection:

• Identifies hidden defects before closing
• Helps buyers avoid unexpected repair or replacement costs
• Provides sellers with documented proof of system condition
• Reduces last-minute real estate delays

It creates transparency and protects all parties involved.

A PSMA inspection typically includes:

• Septic tank condition, baffles, and liquid levels
• Evidence of improper flow or hydraulic overload
• Pumps, floats, alarms, and distribution components
• Drainfield or absorption area performance indicators
• Signs of backups, surfacing effluent, or system stress

Yes. Many septic failures develop gradually. PSMA inspections are designed to detect early warning signs, allowing homeowners to correct issues before they turn into full system failures that can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

While not required everywhere, many townships, lenders, and real estate professionals prefer or require inspections that follow PSMA standards because they are consistent, thorough, and widely accepted across Pennsylvania.

A septic system is a major asset. A PSMA inspection:

• Reduces financial risk
• Helps plan maintenance instead of reacting to emergencies
• Provides documentation that protects buyers and sellers
• Helps extend the life of the system

Yes. Properly functioning septic systems protect:

• Groundwater and drinking wells
• Local streams and waterways
• Public health and surrounding properties

PSMA standards emphasize responsible wastewater management and early detection of environmental risks.

Absolutely. Routine PSMA inspections help homeowners:

• Understand the true condition of their system
• Budget for future maintenance or repairs
• Avoid unexpected system failures
• Maximize system lifespan

Yes. A PSMA inspection includes clear, written documentation of system condition, findings, and recommendations, suitable for homeowners, real estate transactions, and township records.

A PSMA septic inspection provides:

✔ Peace of mind

✔ Early problem detection

✔ Reduced financial risk

✔ Environmental protection

✔ Trusted, standardized reporting

It is one of the smartest steps you can take when dealing with a septic system in Pennsylvania.