Resources
Septic information for Brevard County homeowners.
How your system works, what to keep off your drainfield, and how often to pump. The basics, from the team that does the work.
- Septic basics
- Pumping guidance
- Official links
Septic basics
What a septic system is and how it works
A septic system is an economically efficient and environmentally safe way to dispose of domestic wastewater. It uses natural processes to decompose solids and treat wastewater before it returns to the environment.
A typical system has an inlet pipe from the home, a septic tank, a drainfield and soil. Heavier solids settle as sludge, lighter solids, grease and oil float as scum, and the liquid effluent flows to the drainfield for treatment by the soil. Compartments and a T-shaped outlet pipe keep sludge and scum out of the drainfield.
Keep it off your drainfield
- No trees or shrubs. Roots can clog the drainfield, enter the tank, or crack it.
- No driving or parking. Cars can compact and crush the drainfield.
Pumping guidance
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
It depends on usage. The Department of Health recommends every 3 to 5 years, the EPA every 3 years, and the Water Management District every 2 to 3 years.
Pumping every 3 to 5 years is typically enough for most homes. Households with more people living together, for example during the holidays, may need pumping more often. Our standing recommendation for high-usage homes is every 2 to 3 years.
Warning sign. If the water level in the tank is above the bottom of the outlet, the drainfield may have at least six inches of ponding and could be showing early signs of failure. Call us.
Clean your filter every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage. There is no conclusive evidence that enzyme products extend the life of a system. Aerobic treatment systems need a specific balance of bacteria and food, which normal household use provides.
Helpful links
Official septic information
Rules, permits and homeowner guides from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the EPA.
Septic system owner's guide
The state guide for septic owners and buyers: how systems work, care and maintenance.
Visit Florida DEPPermitting FAQ
Answers to common septic permitting questions from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Visit Florida DEPVariances
How variances for onsite sewage systems work in Florida.
Visit Florida DEPTechnical Advisory Committee
The state committee that advises on onsite sewage rules (OSTDS TAC).
Visit Florida DEPOnsite sewage research
The state program that funds and reviews onsite sewage research in Florida.
Visit Florida DEPSeptic systems
Septic system guides and homeowner tips from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Visit US EPAFrequently asked questions
Good to know
Still have questions? Call us and we'll explain your options.
Call (321) 294-7353Why do system costs vary?
The type of system, drainfield size, soil, depth to the water table, limiting layers, fill and disposal requirements, site access, setbacks from wells and buildings, and overall complexity all affect cost. We discuss these with you on site.
Will pumping interrupt my use of the house?
Usually not for long. Most of the time, your facilities are back in use within a few hours of the job starting.
Can I plant trees or shrubs near the drainfield?
No. Roots from trees and shrubs can damage and clog the drainfield, which leads to a costly repair.
Free consultation & estimate
Ready when you are
Tell us what you need and we will get back to you quickly. For backups, alarms or anything urgent, call now.
(321) 294-7353- Free consultation and estimate
- Residential and commercial work
- 24/7 emergency septic repairs
- Licensed & insured, License No. SM0061501