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View Full Version : Do I call a plumber or Septic Tank Co?


aj3377
Feb 28, 2007, 10:19 AM
About 2 years ago I had my septic tank pumped due to backup of leaves and dirt in my shower and toilet. He said that I had a root problem. He cut as far as he could. After that, everything was fine until about 2 weeks ago. I noticed that every time I washed clothes the kitchen sink would gurgle and a little soapy or clear water would come up. Also, even when I have no water running, I can sometimes hear a gurgle in my washer drain pipe. In the past couple of days, the toilet has been gurgling when I'm taking a shower. I just want to know who I should call first, a plumber or septic tank company. Thanks

ballengerb1
Feb 28, 2007, 10:38 AM
The septic tank guy could pump your tank and inspect the system but he doesn't usually rod the lines from the house to a tank. If this is a reoccurring root problem I'm not confident even good rodding will give you a permanent fix. You may need to replace the main line to the tank and that is a septic guys area. If the root have reinvaded your line they will continue to do so because they have found a fault in the pipe or tile. I'd also start looking at my landscaping when they replace the tile. You may need to cut down the culprit.

doug238
Feb 28, 2007, 07:56 PM
How far is the septic tank from the house? What is the actual distance of the drain/ sewage pipe to the tank? Is there a 2 way cleanout tee on the drain pipe outside the home but before the tank?
Believe it or not, some tank installers and some plumbers do not glue the connecting pipe to the tank from the home. The distance should be minimal. Let the septic company do it, they may be less expensive, and they can handle both the tank and the connecting pipe. Request a 2 way cleanout tee on the drain pipe outside.