FAQ

Residential FAQs

• Do all septic tanks have pumps?

  No, not all septic tanks have pumps. Septic systems can be divided into two main types: gravity systems and pressure distribution systems. Gravity systems rely on the natural flow of wastewater from the house to the tank and then to the drain field. They don't require a pump. Pressure distribution systems, on the other hand, use a pump to evenly distribute effluent to the drain field, ensuring more efficient treatment.
• Why does my septic system back up or clog?

  There are many reasons for a septic system backup or clog; it’s best to contact us to discuss your specific situation. When you call, here are a few standard questions we will ask to help diagnose the problem.

  • When was the last time you had septic pumping service? Going too long between septic services can cause a variety of issues.
  • Do you have a filter installed in your septic system? Filters keep the hair, grit and grime from getting out into and clogging your leach field lines.
  • Where is the backup occurring? Depending on the location (e.g., toilet upstairs, toilet downstairs, outside breakout of liquid), we may need to bring in one of our drain cleaners to help clear the clog.
• How often should I have septic pumping service?

  While all systems should be pumped every year or two, more frequent servicing may be required based on the age of your system, how much water your septic system handles on a regular basis, how many people live in your home and the overall condition of your system.
• How do I know the last time I had septic pumping service?

  If you are unsure of the date of your last septic pumping service, your local Board of Health might have a record of it or you can contact your previous provider.
• What can I do to preserve and protect my septic system?

  We recommend our simple 3-Step Maintenance Program for residential septic systems.

  • Regular septic and cesspool pumping service;
  • Use of bacterial additive products; and
  • Use of a septic system filter (see below for more information).
• What does a septic filter do?

  Filters keep the hair, grit and grime from getting out into and clogging your leach field lines. A filter is installed in the outlet tee of your septic tank and acts as a strainer, keeping all solid large particles in the tank and, therefore, out of your leach field lines.
• What is the difference between a cesspool, a septic system and a tight tank?

  There are many different types of septic systems. A septic system comprises a tank and a leaching area that is attached to the tank. For example, there could be a septic tank attached to a distribution box which has leach field pipes connected to it. You could also have a septic tank and a pump chamber that pumps septic up to the mound in a mound system which would then leach water.

  A cesspool is essentially a carved-out hole in the ground lined with cinder blocks or stones through which the grey water leaches out of the walls of the cesspool. An outlet pipe is sometimes added to a cesspool pipe which would then connect to an overflow pit.

  Tight tanks are similar to septic tanks, except that they have no outlet and must be pumped out at regular intervals.

• How can I find out where my septic system is located?

  Your local Board of Health or town office should have a diagram of your septic system, also known as the ‘As-Built’ plan. If there is no record with the town, we can provide locating services. If you are already a Wind River Environmental customer, we have this information on file for you.
• It is wet over my septic system, what does that mean?

  ‘Ponding’ or damp soil of any sort around or near your septic tank or leach field could be caused by a number of issues, including an over-full septic, a break in a line and other factors. We recommend you contact us, so we can come out to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
• Do I have to be home for septic pumping service?

  It’s not necessary, but it’s a good idea. This way, if we find any areas of concern while servicing your system, we can show them to you and discuss possible options.
• Why do I have more than one cover on my septic tank?

  Actually, most septic tanks have three covers. One over the inlet side of the septic tank where the water from your home enters the tank, one in the center of the tank and one on the outlet side of the tank where the liquid from the tank exits to your leach field.
• How much does it cost to install a new septic system?

  The price will vary based on size, type, location and other factors. Give us a call and our engineering team can discuss the options and put together a quote for you.
• During the septic inspection, will I have to have septic pumping service?

  It depends. While it is highly recommended, sometimes the inspector needs to see the tank before and after to properly inspect the system. Some inspections involve checking the interior walls of the septic tank for staining, cracks, holes, etc.
• How long does the septic system inspection usually last?

  Every system is different and finding the components, exposing them, inspecting and dealing with any issues that may arise can take varied amounts of time. In general, though, it’s about a two-hour process.
• How much digging is involved?

  Depending on the type of inspection, some require extensive digging. Some system components may be very deep and, therefore, difficult to find. A small backhoe is usually used to expose the system components.
• Does someone need to be present at the time of my drain cleaning service?

  Yes. We need access to the inside of your home for drain cleaning service.
• How far down the line can your cable go?

  We have 50-foot baskets with our drain cleaner which means that our cabling can go out at 50-foot intervals. We can cable down as far as we need to go.
• Why would I have odors inside my house?

  There are lots of possible causes. It’s best to contact us to help troubleshoot.

  Some of the questions we’ll ask include:

  • Has it been more than a year since your last septic pumping service?
  • Where are the odors coming from?
  • Do you have an unused drain or bathroom?
• Why is my toilet flushing slowly?

  This could be a sign that you need septic pumping service. It might also indicate a potential clog; particularly if you’ve recently had septic pumping service.
• What are your hours?

  We operate 24/7. Call us anytime, day or night, at 800-499-1682 to speak with a customer service representative.
• Do you do work all year round?

  Yes.
• What areas do you service?

  We have an extensive coverage area. Please see the areas we serve.
• Do you service boats?

  We are able to service boats provided they are docked and our truck and equipment have adequate access.
• Do you service recreational vehicles or portable toilets?

  No, due to the small tank and hose hookups, our equipment cannot pump recreational vehicles or portable toilets.