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Septic Pumping Service

Why do I have more than one cover?

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).

What is a two compartment tank and what is it for?

A two compartment septic system is partially divided. The purpose of this is generally to help with the digestion of waste materials. When waste from the home enters the first compartment, the heavy solids will sink to the bottom and the lighter grey water will flow over the divider into the second compartment. The second compartment holds grey water which will then flow out to the leach field.

What does a D-Box do? Do you pump it when you service the tank?

A D-Box is short for Distribution Box. The D-box is usually a 2 foot by 2 foot cement box that has 2-3 holes in it which the leach field lines attach to. The distribution box does just that, it helps to distribute the liquid from the tank out evenly along the leach field lines. The distribution box does not need to be pumped at the time of the septic pumping during regular servicing.

What is a leaching field?

A leaching field is a series of pipes (usually 20 to 40 feet long) that extend out from your distribution box. These pipes have small holes along the sides that leach out grey water from your septic system. The leaching field pipes are laid over dirt and gravel to help kick start the filtration process which occurs naturally. As the water seeps out of the leach field lines, it will filter through the ground entering into the natural hydrologic cycle of the earth.

Do you have a digging charge?

For customers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, the first 6 inches (12 inches for Connecticut customers) of digging are FREE. There is only a fee if your cover is deeper than 6 inches below grade. EarthCare can also install a cover riser to your system to raise the level of your cover to be within 6 inches of the ground level. This will help you avoid a digging fee in the future. Please give us a call or ask your EarthCare Technician for cover riser pricing.

Why does my septic system back up or clog?

There are many reasons for a backup or clog. Please contact us to discuss your specific issue.
There are a few standard questions we will ask to help us diagnose the problem:

1. When was the last time you had septic pumping service ? Going too long between septic pumping services can cause a variety of issues.
2. 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.
3. Where are you backing up? Depending on the location of the back-up (toilet upstairs or downstairs or outside breakout of liquid) ,we may need to have one of our drain cleaners on site to help clear the clog.

What is "proper working level"?

Proper working level is where the water level in your tank meets the outlet T of the tank. As water enters your tank it should push water out of your tank through the outlet pipe. Even after one week of septic pumping service, your septic tank should return to a "proper working level" about 1 foot from the top of the tank. Your septic tank will hold liquid in order for the separation of solids and liquid to happen. Only the liquid (or grey water) should flow out to the leach field pipes.

How can I find out where my septic is located?

Your local Board of Health Office should have a diagram of your septic system, also known as the "As-Built" plan on file. All homes built and sold in Massachusetts are required to have a Title 5 Inspection, which will include a diagram of the system. If you do not have a copy of the Title 5 Inspection, the Board of Health should have that on file also. If there is no record at the Board of Health, EarthCare does provide locating services. Please contact us for details. If you are a EarthCare customer, we will have this information on file!

How can I find out how many gallons my septic holds?

Your septic system diagram or "As-Built" Plan should include the tank size. If the Board of Health does not have your records on file, EarthCare can measure your tank size for you. If you are a EarthCare customer, we will have this information on file!

How often should I have septic pumping service?

Your should have septic pumping service  every 1 to 2 years. More frequent servicing will depend upon the age of your system, how much water your system is handling on a regular basis, how many people live in the home, and the condition of your system.

When was the last time I had septic pumping service?

A record of each septic pumping service by a licensed septic hauler must be sent to the local Board of Health office. If you are unsure of the date of your last septic pumping service, your local Board of Health can provide you with the answer.

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 is comprised of 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. Your could also have a septic tank and a pump chamber that pumps septic up to the mound in a mound system which would leach water.
b. 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.

Will there be odors while and/or after septic pumping service?

There can be odors immediately after the service, but they should not last long. The odors are usually outside and will disperse a few hours after the service.

About how long does it take to pump out the septic tank?

The act of pumping the liquid out of the septic tank roughly a 1/2 hour. The service may take longer if we need to dig to the cover or if we run into any unexpected problems.

What is CCLS?

CCLS is a highly concentrated commercial grade bacterial additive. CCLS is recommended as part of our 3 Step Maintenance Program. It is very important to replace the bacteria in your tank that you will kill by using soaps, detergents and other everyday products in your home.

It is wet over my septic, what does that mean?

You should contact us if you are experiencing ponding or damp soil of any sort around or near your septic tank or leach field. There are a number of possible reasons for a wet septic. For instance, an over full septic could cause a break out from the cover of the tank. A break in the line from the tank could cause a septic breakout above that area of the pipe.

What are your hours?

EarthCare is a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week operation. You can call us anytime and speak to a customer service representative.

What areas do you service?

We have an extensive fleet and coverage area. Please consult our coverage map section.

Do you do work all year round?

Yes. We service customers all year round; 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

Can you service a French drain at my home?

Yes. Please call us for a quote to clear your French drain.

What does a filter do?

We recommend filters as part of our 3 Step Maintenance plan for a healthy septic system. Filters keep the hair, grit and grime from getting out into and clogging your leach field lines. A filter would be installed in the outlet tee of your septic tank and would act 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 pit and a field?

A leach pit is a round, dug out hole in the ground built with cinder blocks or stone along the walls and gravel and stone at the bottom. The leach pit allows grey water to seep out of the sides and bottom of the hole to filter naturally. A leach field is a series of long PVC pipes with holes that allow grey water to seep out and filter naturally through the gravel and stone directly above.

Why would the cesspool have a leaching pit?

If the cesspool is older and has bio-mat built up around the walls and along the bottom, the cesspool is not leaching water as it should. In this case, an outlet pipe could be installed with a line leading to a leaching pit which will allow grey water to leach out of the sides and bottom much like the cesspool would.

What is a pit?

A leach pit is a round, dug out hole in the ground built with cinder blocks or stone along the walls and gravel and stone at the bottom. The leach pit allows grey water to seep out of the sides and bottom of the hole to filter naturally.

What are the galleys?

Galleys are alternatives to leaching trenches. They are hollow rectangular concrete boxes without bottoms that are placed end to end in a row. Each galley will have its solid lid on the top (called a Cleanout Lid), with sides perforated with small rectangular holes. Each row of galleys is surrounded by crushed stone and gravel allowing the grey water to leach out and filter naturally through the soil.

What is an aerobic system?

An aerobic septic system is one that contains a mixer in the tank which will agitate and aspirate the liquid in the tank. This will insert oxygen in the tank which will help keep the live bacteria in the system from dying. Bacteria will flourish and keep eating away at solid matter in the tank to allow for less sludge build up and more grey water in the leach field lines.

Where can I get my plans?

Your local Board of Health should have a copy of your septic system plans in their office.

Is the white candy cane my cover?

No. The candy cane is actually a vent pipe for your septic system to help the gases escape while also allowing oxygen to flow into your system.

Do I have to be home for the septic pumping service?

Although it is not a requirement, we would like for you to be home at the time of the septic service so that we can discuss the condition of your system with you.

Do you offer a neighborhood discount?

Yes. Contact our Customer Service Center for more information.

Is it true I can't use bleach?

Bleach kills bacteria and your septic system needs to have a healthy supply of bacteria in order to help eat away at the sludge in your tank. Many products we use in our homes today are anti-bacterial, so it is important to REPLACE that bacteria by using our bacterial additives. Give us a call to find out more about our bacterial additives that will help prolong the life of your septic system!

Do you bill?

EarthCare does require payment at the time of service. We do accept checks and all major credit cards.

How do I know if the discolored water backing up into my home is septic or a water problem with the town?

First, check with your neighbors to see if they are having any water discoloration. If so, nearby construction may be to blame. Double check with your local Board of Health. If there are no ongoing construction projects, and your neighbors are not having any issues, please give us a call.

Can you get someone out today to pump my septic system or cesspool?

EarthCare is available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency service. If you are not experiencing an emergency, but want same day service - Give us a call to see if we can get you serviced today!

My washer is backing up, is that a septic issue?

Possibly. If your septic has not been serviced in more than 6 months, we would want to service the septic first. If the problem persists, a drain cleaner will then be sent out to clear the washer line to the septic.

What other services do you provide besides septic pumping?

• Title 5 Inspections
• New System Engineering and Design
• Septic System Installations
• Failed Septic System Rejuvenation
• Drain Cleaning
• Plumbing
• Septic System Repairs
• Sewer Jetting
• Video Camera Inspections

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Septic System Repairs

Will EarthCare obtain the permits to do a repair?

Yes. We work closely with the local Board of Health offices and governments to pull all the proper permits for any job that we do.

Do you do pump repairs?

Yes. We work in conjunction with many pump repair specialists to ensure that the septic technicians and pump repair technicians are working simultaneously to fix the problem.

Why do I need an inlet tee?

An inlet tee directs the flow of the liquid coming from the house into the septic tank. It is important to have a tee in order for the liquid to flow down into the tank, instead of shooting across the top of the tank. The septic tank contents need to separate naturally. The tee will help guide the direction of the flow into the tank.

Why should I repair the outlet tee?

Outlet Tees and Inlet Tees are important components of your septic system and should be repaired or replaced if broken. The outlet tee is the component that connects to your outlet line, which directs the flow of the liquid from the septic tank to the distribution box or draining component.

Why should I install a filter?

We recommend filters as part of our 3 Step Maintenance plan for a healthy septic system. Filters keep the hair, grit and grime from getting out into and clogging your leach field lines. A filter would be installed in your outlet tee of your septic tank and would act as a strainer, keeping all solid large particles in the tank and therefore OUT of your leach field lines.

What cover is used when they put a new Build Up on?

Our Build-Ups come with a heavy gauge plastic cover which screws into place. These covers are light weight, but very durable.

What is the poly green cover and how is it screwed down?

The poly green cover is a heavy gauge plastic cover that is screwed down with bolts attached to the collar over the opening in the tank.

What is the build-up material made of and how do they determine its size?

The Build-Up material is made up of heavy gauge plastic rings which can be cut to size. Our technician will measure the height required on site and cut your build-up before installing it.

Will I be able to grow grass over my cover if I get a build-up installed?

Yes. Build-Ups can raise your cover right up to the surface or keep your cover just a few inches below the surface so that you can cover it with new grass.

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Septic Design & Installation

How much does it cost for a new septic system install?

A new septic system can vary in pricing depending on the size and type needed. Contact EarthCare's Engineering team to get a pricing quote.

Do you do sewer tie-ins?

Yes. Contact our Design and Installation team for more information about sewer tie-ins in your area.

If I can't afford a new septic system, what else can I do?

At EarthCare, we will assess the condition of your septic system and present you with several options. There are ways to extend the life of and possibly repair your septic system while avoiding the installation of an entirely new septic system. Contact our Customer Service Center to set up a septic system assessment.

Do I need to have the septic system moved if I am going to be installing a deck at my property?

Moving a septic is not an easy or cheap option. If you are installing a deck or putting an addition onto your house, you do need to consider the location of your septic and the costs associated with moving your septic tank and or leach field. The best way to determine if you will need to move any component of your system is to first get your "As Built" plans of your septic system from your Board of Health office to determine exactly where your septic system is.

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Septic System Rejuvenation

Why do I have ponding in the yard?

Ponding can result from a break in your main line, or it could mean that your leach field is blocked with Bio-Mat and needs to be cleaned and jetted. Contact our Customer Service Center to be connected with our Residential Systems Advisor who will recommend the proper steps to take.

If I do the custom clean how long will it last?

Although there is no guarantee, a custom cleaning combined with proper system maintenance can help your system survive for years to come.

Why should I do a custom clean instead of getting a whole new system?

The difference in most cases is cost. The price of a custom cleaning is normally between $1,800 to $2000. A new system can cost upward of $30,000 to $50,000.

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Septic System Inspections

What does a Title 5 Inspection involve?

A Title 5 Inspection is a 15 page report on your septic system. It requires that a State Licensed Massachusetts Title 5 Inspector expose and inspect the components of the septic system.

Why do I need a Title 5?

In Massachusetts a Title 5 Inspection is required before the sale of any home. However, there may be other instances that may require a Title 5 Inspection. Some towns require a Title 5 Inspection with an addition to the home, or a change in the number of occupants or bedrooms. Check with EarthCare or your local Board of Health for more information.

How long is an inspection good for?

Your Title 5 Inspection is good for 2 years. However, the inspection will be valid for three years if you have septic pumping service each year on or before the anniversary date of your septic system inspection.

During the inspection will I have to have septic pumping service?

EarthCare believes that a proper inspection of your septic tank cannot be done unless the inspector is able to see the tank before and after the tank is serviced. Part of the inspection involves checking the interior walls of the septic tank for staining, cracks, holes, etc.

How long does the inspection usually last?

Every system is different, and finding the components, exposing them and inspecting them can take varied amounts of time. A general time range would be 2 hours. The process could be longer or shorter depending on what is found during the inspection.

What is a conditional pass?

A conditional pass means that your system will pass if a certain condition is met. A repair or replacement of the distribution box is the most common condition that needs to be met. The inspector would write up his official Title 5 report with the conditional pass notes outlining the needed replacement of the distribution box. At this time, EarthCare will schedule an appointment for the repair and attain all the proper permits required. Once the repair is done, your Board of Health will issue a Certificate of Compliance. The Certificate of Compliance will go along with your conditional pass Title 5 and will be used together in the sale of a home, etc.

How much digging is involved?

With a Title 5 Inspection, the digging can be quite extensive. Some system components may be very deep and therefore difficult to find. A small back-hoe is usually used to expose the system components.

What documents need to be presented at the time of the Title 5 Inspection?

You will need to show 2 years of water bills (the inspector needs to see how much water the system is taking in and handling), 2 years of septic pumping records (if you have been a EarthCare customer, you do not have to worry about this. Our inspector will have it), and 2 plans of your septic system, (the "As Built" plan and the "design" plan). The two plans combined will help insure that we are able to find all the system components quickly, thus saving you money!

When will I find out if the system passed or failed?

You will find out the day of the inspection whether you pass, fail or conditionally pass. The inspector will fill out a hand written report and submit to a clerk to type up and proof for final approval.

Are inspection results filed with the BOH?

Yes. The official typed report will be submitted to your local Board of Health office. Another copy of the official report along with pictures of your system will also be sent to you within 10-14 business days of your Title 5 Inspection.

What is a certificate of compliance?

A Certificate of Compliance is an official document supplied by your local Board of Health office which states that the condition has been met on a Title 5 inspection that was deemed a conditional pass.

What kind of equipment will be used?

EarthCare's Title 5 Inspection crew will arrive at your home with a small back-hoe, shovels, measuring tape and other equipment needed for the inspection. We will also provide a technician to pump your septic and haul it away for the inspector.

Will I automatically fail the Title 5 if I have a cesspool?

Not always. Please Check with your local Board of Health office to determine if your town is one that automatically fails cesspools. Some towns have grandfathered in cesspools, but have banned the new installation of cesspools.

What do I do if I fail the Title 5?

If it is determined that your system has not passed the Title 5 Inspection, your inspector will advise you on the next steps necessary to repair or replace your system.

What does the inspector look for?

The inspector will look for many different things to determine if all components of your system are in proper working order at the time of the inspection. For a complete report, visit www.mass.gov

Should I have the leach field inspected if there is a tree or if someone has driven over it?

If there has been a fallen tree or heavy equipment on your leach field area, it would be a good idea to get your leach lines inspected. Most leach fields are installed deep enough under the ground to keep them protected, but EarthCare can check your leach lines by using a camera to inspect them.

What is an ISDS inspection?

ISDS is an Individual Sewage Disposal System. Some towns in Rhode Island will require that you receive periodical ISDS inspections and will notify you when it is time for an inspection. EarthCare has ISDS Certified inspectors on staff and will be able to complete the inspection and promptly submit the proper paperwork to your Board of Health office.

During your ISDS inspection, our technician will conduct a flow test, check your system components (excluding the distribution box), check for staining and any other potential issues, and write up the condition report of the system. We can also service your septic tank at the time of inspection as well.

Do I have to have the septic pumping service when I get an ISDS inspection?

Not always. However, if the ISDS inspector does require that your septic system be serviced at the time of the septic system inspection, EarthCare does have pricing set up to include and exclude septic pumping with the inspection.

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Drain Cleaning

Does someone need to be present at the time of my Drain Cleaning service?

Yes. You will need to be present to allow us inside your home for our drain cleaning services.

How long 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 long as we need to go.

How long is Drain Cleaning guaranteed for?

Although our Drain Cleaning services are not guaranteed, we truly care for our customers and will make sure to make good on our services. If we didn't fix your problem, we will work to make it right.

Why does my septic tank need to be pumped before you can do the drain cleaning?

If you have not had recent septic pumping service, it will need to be serviced if a main line is clogged. Pumping out the content of the tank will be necessary before the drain cleaner can force out a clog. If you have not had your septic system serviced in more than 6 months, pumping first may actually fix the problem.

Why would I have odors inside my house?

EarthCare will help you diagnose the problem by asking a few questions. the odors. For instance, has it been more than a year since your last septic pumping service? Where are the smells coming from? Do you have an unused drain or bathroom? The answers to these questions will allow us to help you fix the problem quickly.

Why is my toilet flushing slow?

It could be a sign that you septic pumping service. It could also indicate a potential clog If you have recently had septic serviced.

Can you service a French drains at my home?

Yes. Please call us for a pricing quote on clearing your French drain.

How do I know if the discolored water backing up into my home is septic or a water problem with the town?

First, check with your neighbors to see if they are having any water discoloration. If so, nearby construction may be to blame. Double check with your local Board of Health. If there are no ongoing construction projects, and your neighbors are not having any issues, please give us a call.

Why does the white thing in my back yard smell?

The white candy cane is actually a vent pipe for your septic system to help the gases escape while also helping oxygen flow into your system. At times, these gases escaping from your system can have an odor. Persistent odors should be checked out by your EarthCare technician.

My washer is backing up – is that a septic issue?

Possibly. If you have not had septic pumping service in more than 6 months, we would want to service the septic first. If the problem persists, a drain cleaner will then be sent out to clear the washer line to the septic.

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