Frequently Asked Questions About Septic Systems

Southern Civils • January 31, 2025
Three septic tanks are sitting on top of a dirt field.

Septic systems are a vital component for homes and businesses in areas without access to municipal sewer systems. While they operate efficiently when maintained properly, many people have questions about how they work, their maintenance needs, and what to avoid. At Southern Civils, our team can answer any of your questions about septic systems. Here are some frequently asked questions about septic systems and their answers.


What is a septic system, and how does it work?

A septic system is an on-site wastewater treatment system. It consists of two main components: the septic tank and the drain field. Wastewater from your home flows into the septic tank, where solids settle to the bottom and oils float to the top. Bacteria in the tank break down the solids, while the liquid wastewater, or effluent, is released into the drain field. The drain field disperses the treated water into the soil, where natural processes further filter it.


How often should a septic tank be pumped?

Septic tanks should generally be pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on the size of the tank and the number of people in the household. Regular pumping prevents solids from building up to a level where they can clog the system or overflow into the drain field. A professional septic service provider can assess your tank and recommend an appropriate pumping schedule based on your specific usage.


What should not be flushed or drained into a septic system?

To protect your septic system, avoid flushing or draining items that can cause blockages or disrupt bacterial activity. This includes non-biodegradable items like wipes and feminine hygiene products, as well as chemicals like bleach and paint. It’s also generally best to keep grease and oils out of the system as much as possible because they can solidify and clog pipes or the drain field. Sticking to septic-safe products is crucial for maintaining a healthy system.


What are signs of a failing septic system?

Warning signs of a failing septic system include slow drains, gurgling sounds in the plumbing, sewage odors in the yard, or wet spots near the drain field. In severe cases, sewage may back up into the house. If you notice any of these signs, contact a septic professional immediately to assess and repair the issue before it worsens.


How can I extend the life of my septic system?

Regular maintenance, mindful usage, and timely repairs are key to extending the life of your septic system. Schedule routine inspections and pump-outs, use water efficiently, and avoid overloading the system with excessive wastewater. 


Septic System Installation & Replacement in Tucson, AZ

When you need septic system services in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at 520-337-4018. Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Signs that Your Septic System Is Failing and Needs to Be Replaced

By Southern Civils • June 2, 2025
A properly functioning septic system is essential for managing wastewater in homes that aren't connected to a municipal sewer system. When a septic system starts to fail, it can create health hazards, unpleasant odors, and costly damage. At Southern Civils, we provide expert septic system replacement in the greater Tucson area. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you determine if it's time to consider a full replacement. Slow Drains Throughout the House If you're noticing that sinks, bathtubs, and toilets are draining more slowly than usual, and plunging or snaking doesn’t resolve the issue, it could point to a problem with your septic system. While occasional clogs in a single fixture are normal, slow drainage throughout the entire home may indicate that your septic tank is full or the drain field is no longer absorbing water properly. This is often one of the earliest warning signs of a failing system. Foul Odors Indoors or Outside Persistent sewage smells inside your home or near the septic tank or drain field can be a sign that the system is no longer functioning as it should. These odors may be caused by wastewater backing up or by untreated sewage surfacing in the yard. A healthy septic system contains and processes waste without releasing unpleasant smells. When these odors become noticeable, especially in multiple areas, it could be a sign of failure. Sewage Backups in the Home When wastewater begins to back up into your toilets, sinks, or tubs, it’s a red flag that your septic system is failing. Backups commonly start on the lowest level of the house and can cause major health hazards and property damage. If pumping the tank doesn’t fix the issue or backups continue to happen regularly, a full system replacement might be necessary. Lush, Green Patches of Grass Over the Drain Field Unusually green and thick patches of grass over your drain field can be an indication that untreated wastewater is seeping into the soil and acting as a fertilizer. While it might seem harmless at first, this can suggest that the system is leaking or failing underground. Septic System Replacement in Tucson, AZ When you need septic system replacement in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at  520-337-4018  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Important Things to Consider When Planning to Install a New Septic System

By Southern Civils • April 28, 2025
Installing a new septic system is a significant investment that requires careful planning and consideration. Whether you're building a new home or replacing an old system, the success and longevity of your septic system depend on a variety of factors. From local regulations to soil quality, understanding what to expect can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth installation process. At Southern Civils, our team would be happy to answer any of your questions about septic system installation. Here are four important things to keep in mind when planning to install a new septic system. Local Regulations and Permits Before any digging begins, it's crucial to check with local health/environmental rules about septic system installation in your particular area. Permits, site evaluations, and inspections are all typically required throughout the process. These rules are in place to protect public health and the environment, so complying with them is not optional. Failure to do so can lead to delays, fines, or being required to redo the work. Soil and Site Evaluation The type of soil on your property plays a major role in determining what kind of septic system you can install. A percolation test, often called a “perc test,” is used to evaluate how well the soil absorbs water. Sandy or loamy soils tend to drain well, while clay-heavy soils can cause problems with absorption. A site evaluation will also consider the slope of your land, distance to water sources, and space available for the system. This assessment will guide your system design and ensure it functions properly for years to come. System Size and Household Needs Your septic system must be sized appropriately for your household’s daily wastewater output. Factors such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and water-using appliances are taken into account when determining tank and drain field size. Installing a system that is too small can lead to frequent backups and maintenance problems. On the other hand, an oversized system may be unnecessarily expensive. Your contractor can help you determine the right size based on your current and future needs, as well as the particular type of system, whether gravity-fed or otherwise. Long-Term Maintenance Planning Even the best-designed septic system requires regular maintenance to function properly. When planning your installation, consider how you’ll access the tank for future pumping and inspections. Discuss a long-term maintenance plan with your installer, including how often the system should be serviced. Staying proactive with maintenance will help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your septic system. Septic System Installation & Replacement in Tucson, AZ For expert septic system services in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at  520-337-4018  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!