FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

At least every 5-6 years. However, no two septic systems are the same in terms of their content. Diet, lifestyle, and usage can affect the pumping schedule. Just moving into a home with a septic system? Once you have your system inspected to make sure your system doesn’t need to be pumped, you should have it pumped after 2 years. At that time, based on the level of floating solids and sludge, you have a better idea of just how long you can go without having the system pumped.

You need a permit to install a septic system. You do not need a permit to inspect or expose your septic system. 

Repairs that do not need a permit  are Minor repairs (e.g., replacement of a distribution box, broken piping connection, septic tank lid).

For repairs not listed above call Applegate Septic & Sewer for a FREE phone consultation at (209) 575-4531.

Typical installation is 1-2 days.

Generally, no. additional chemicals are not necessary because the normal amount of bacteria found in the waste from diets containing meat (beef, chicken and port) are sufficient to breakdown the solids. If, however, the household diet does not contain meat, then you may need to add chemicals to aid in what would otherwise be normal breakdown.

Typically, 20-30 years with proper maintenance and soil type. Proper maintenance would include pumping the septic system every 5-6 years. In terms of soil type, sandier soils are typically better than heavier, clay type soils.

No, it’s not. Doing so doesn’t allow the sun to dry out the area and air to pass through thereby ensuring proper operation of the leach line itself.

No, the leach line or pipe is just the medium used to carry the water effluent. The rock is what stores the water and soil is what takes it all away. If the leach line is plugged with roots, soil, etc., hydro-jetting the leach line is only cleaning out the pipe.

Realize that heavy equipment (backhoe, dump truck, etc.) are used to dig up the area where your septic take is/will be and where other ancillary pipes are/will be placed. If you know the layout and location of your sprinkler lines. we will do our utmost to avoid and/or protect these areas as well as protect your landscaping.

Yes, having a riser installed allows for easy access and problem-free pumping down the road. If you choose NOT to have a riser installed, every time you have your system inspected and/or pumped, the ground over the septic system cover will need to be removed, typically by a backhoe.