8 Signs Your Septic Tank
Needs Pumping

The most common signs a septic tank needs pumping are slow drains, gurgling pipes, sewage odor, and soggy or extra-green grass over the leach field. A backup in the lowest drain in the house is the most urgent sign. If it has been 3 years or more since the last pump-out, the tank is probably due even without symptoms.

We've pumped septic tanks in Southern California since 1950. These are the things people tell us when they call.

1. Slow Drains All Over the House

One slow sink is usually a clog in that drain. When the tubs, sinks and toilets are all slow at the same time, the problem is further down the line, and a full tank is a common cause.

2. Gurgling Toilets and Drains

Gurgling after you flush or run the washer means air is being pushed back up through the pipes. A full tank or a blocked line can do it. If it happens every time, don't wait on it.

3. Sewage Smell Inside or Outside

A working tank shouldn't smell much from the yard. A rotten-egg or sewage odor near the tank, over the leach field or around a floor drain inside means something is backing up or venting where it shouldn't.

4. Soggy or Extra-Green Grass Over the Leach Field

In a dry Southern California summer, a bright green strip or a wet spot over the tank or leach lines stands out. It usually means wastewater is coming up instead of soaking in. Solids from an overfull tank may be clogging the lines. Keep kids and pets off it.

5. Backups in the Lowest Drain

Sewage shows up first in the lowest fixture in the house, usually a downstairs shower, tub or floor drain. This is the most urgent sign on the list. Stop using water right away and call.

6. Standing Water Near the Tank or Drain Field

Puddles that show up when it hasn't rained, or that hang around long after a storm, point to a system that can't take any more water. The tank may be full, or the leach lines or seepage pit may be failing. Pumping the tank tells us which.

7. It's Been 3 Years or More

Most tanks need pumping every 3 to 5 years. If you can't remember the last time, or you bought the house and nobody knows, assume it's due. Waiting for symptoms means solids may already be reaching the leach field. Our guide on how often to pump a septic tank has a chart by tank and household size.

8. You're Buying or Selling the Home

Buyers and lenders often ask for a septic inspection before close of escrow, and pumping is usually part of it. Getting it done early keeps surprises out of the last week of escrow. See escrow inspections and certification.

Sewage Backing Up? Call Now, Even After Hours

If sewage is coming up into the house or the yard, stop using water. No flushing, showers, laundry or dishwasher. Then call (909) 795-6164. We answer 7 days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM, and after-hours emergency calls are answered too.

A backup doesn't always mean a full tank. If the tank fills up again soon after a pump-out, the trouble may be in the disposal area. Our leach line repair and seepage pit pages explain what that can mean, and our septic tank pumping page covers the visit.

We pump tanks across San Bernardino County, Riverside County, and into Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties.

Septic Warning Sign Questions

What does a full septic tank sound like?

Gurgling in toilets, tubs or sinks, especially right after you flush or run the washer. It means air and water are having trouble getting past a full tank or a blocked line.

Can a septic tank be full without any signs?

Yes. Solids build up for years before you notice anything. By the time drains slow down, solids may already be moving into the leach lines. That's why we suggest pumping every 3 to 5 years instead of waiting for symptoms.

Is a septic backup an emergency?

Yes. Sewage in the house is a health risk. Stop using water and call (909) 795-6164. After-hours emergency calls are answered.

Will pumping fix a soggy leach field?

Sometimes. If the tank was overfull, pumping takes the pressure off. If the soil in the leach field is already clogged, the yard will stay wet and the lines may need repair.

Should I pump the tank before selling my house?

Usually, yes. Buyers and lenders often ask for an inspection, and pumping is usually part of it. Mention escrow when you call and we will plan the visit around your timeline.