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Have a septic question or need service? We’re here to assist with free estimates, troubleshooting, or scheduling—call us at (559) 233-2400 or use the form below!

Frequently Asked Questions:

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

A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment system commonly used in rural areas. It consists of a septic tank that separates solids and liquids, and a leach field that filters and disperses treated wastewater into the soil.

No, only human waste and septic-safe toilet paper should be flushed. Items like wipes, diapers, and feminine hygiene products do not break down and can clog the system.

Check property records or inspection reports for diagrams. If unavailable, a licensed septic professional can locate the tank and leach field for you.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to system backups, leach field failures, and costly repairs. In severe cases, it may also contaminate groundwater.

No, driving or parking over the septic tank or leach field can damage the system, collapse pipes, or compact the soil, reducing its ability to absorb wastewater.

Avoid planting trees or shrubs near the septic system. Their roots can invade and damage pipes, tanks, or the leach field. We recommend planting grass over your absorption field.

Garbage disposals are not recommended, as they add solids to the tank and increase the frequency of pumping. If used, consider installing an effluent filter.

Use biodegradable, septic-safe cleaning products. Avoid bleach, antibacterial soaps, and harsh chemicals that can kill beneficial bacteria in the tank.

Fix leaks, install water-efficient fixtures, and spread out water use (e.g., laundry and dishwashing). Reducing water usage minimizes strain on the system.

Yes, septic systems can freeze in extremely cold weather, especially if not used regularly. However, in the Central Valley, our frost line is typically around 5” and most septic pipes are further underground than this, so they’re likely safe. Nevertheless, we recommend insulating exposed pipes and maintaining normal usage during winter.

Sewage odors may indicate a septic system problem, such as a backup or leach field issue. Contact a septic professional immediately. Over a quick phone call, we can help you troubleshoot and determine if we can help or if a plumber may be a better option for you.

Excessive rain or flooding water can saturate the leach field, preventing proper drainage. Divert surface water and roof runoff away from the system.

Signs of failure include slow drains, sewage backing up, and soggy or smelly areas in the yard near the leach field. A professional inspection is necessary to confirm.

Yes, most local governments require permits for septic system repairs or replacements. Check with your County’s Planning Department for specific requirements.

Grass helps prevent soil erosion and facilitates evapotranspiration. Avoid planting shrubs or trees, as their roots can damage the system.

A water stress test evaluates how the leach field absorbs wastewater by temporarily increasing water flow. It helps identify potential blockages or issues.

Dumping chemicals like paint, oil, or pesticides can kill the beneficial bacteria needed to break down waste. Always dispose of such items at approved facilities.

With proper maintenance, a septic system can last 20–40 years or more. Regular pumping, avoiding damage, and proper usage extend its lifespan.

Septic Installation, Repair and Leach Line FAQs

New septic system installation

Do you install new septic systems for homes in Fresno, Clovis and the surrounding area?

Yes. Sequoia Pumping installs new septic systems, leach lines and septic drain wells throughout Fresno, Madera, Kings and Tulare counties. Tell us the property address and whether it is a new build or an existing property, and we can discuss what your project needs.

I'm building on a rural lot near Kerman or Reedley. What do I need before I can get a septic installation estimate?

It helps to have the property address, city and county, and any site plans, soil or percolation test results, permits or design documents you already have. Also tell us about access to the property and your preferred timeframe. You don't need to dig anything up to ask.

What are the main parts of a new septic system?

A conventional system has a septic tank that holds and separates solids, and a dispersal area (leach lines/leach field, or a septic drain well where permitted and suitable) that releases the liquid into the soil. The exact layout comes from the approved design for your site, not from a general example.

Can you install a septic system on a property in Madera, Chowchilla or Coarsegold, or only in the Fresno area?

Yes. We install and repair septic systems throughout Fresno, Madera, Kings and Tulare counties, including Madera, Chowchilla and Coarsegold. Soil, groundwater, available space and local requirements vary by property, so each site is looked at individually.

Septic repair

My septic tank was just pumped, but my drains in Sanger are still slow. What could be going on?

Pumping removes accumulated material from the tank, but it does not repair a damaged component or restore a struggling dispersal area. A problem that returns after pumping deserves a closer look at the system and its history. Share the date of your last pumping or inspection and any written findings when you contact us.

How do I know whether I need a septic repair or just a pump-out?

A pump-out is routine maintenance. A repair is needed when something in the system is damaged, blocked or not working as designed. Symptoms such as slow drains or backups can come from either, so they don't confirm which one you need. An evaluation of the system is how the cause gets identified.

Do you do septic repairs in Selma, Kingsburg and Fowler?

Yes. We handle repairs, installations, pumping and inspections throughout our service areas, including Selma, Kingsburg and Fowler. Describe what you're seeing and include your property location so we can discuss next steps.

What should I have ready when I call about a septic problem in Hanford or Visalia?

Have your address, city and county, a description of what is happening and when it started, and the dates of any recent pumping or repairs. Existing reports, system drawings and permits are useful, as are any changes in household water use, landscaping or construction. Keep people and pets away from exposed sewage, and never enter a septic tank.

Leach lines (leach field / drain field)

When does a septic system need new leach lines?

Leach lines are the part of the system that disperses liquid from the tank into the soil. When that area is not working properly, the right fix depends on the cause, the site conditions, existing records and applicable approvals. Sometimes new leach lines are part of the answer, and sometimes they aren't.

Can leach lines be repaired, or do they have to be replaced? (Clovis, Fresno, Madera)

It depends on what is wrong and what the site allows, so a symptom alone isn't enough to choose between repair and replacement. We can review your system history and discuss the options.

Will adding more leach lines fix poor drainage in my yard in Tulare or Hanford?

Not automatically. Adding lines or pits is not a standard remedy for poor drainage, and the proposed work should address the cause and meet the requirements for the property. Soil, groundwater, available space and setbacks all affect what is possible.

Septic drain wells

What is a septic drain well, and is it the same as a seepage pit?

A septic drain well, also called a seepage pit, is a deeper excavation that receives liquid from a septic tank for dispersal where permitted and suitable. It is not a stormwater dry well or a drinking-water well. It is one way to disperse effluent, and leach lines are another.

Can I install a septic drain well because my lot in Fresno or Clovis is small?

Lot size alone doesn't settle it. Site evaluation and the applicable approval process determine which dispersal options can be used. Neither a small lot nor clay soil is, by itself, a reason to choose a septic drain well.

My property has a high water table. Is a septic drain well a good solution in the Madera or Chowchilla area?

High groundwater is a constraint, not a reason to dig deeper. A deeper pit still has to maintain the required separation from groundwater, and state and local requirements apply. A qualified professional and the responsible local authority should address how those requirements apply to your property.

I have an old drain well that may need replacement. Who do I contact in the Reedley or Dinuba area?

Contact us with the symptoms and any records you have, such as pumping history, inspection reports, system drawings and permits. We can discuss whether your concern falls within our scope.

Permits and county approvals

Who approves a new septic system or a major repair in Fresno, Madera, Kings or Tulare County?

The responsible local authority depends on your property's jurisdiction, and requirements can differ by site. Confirm who approves septic work for your property before construction starts. Sequoia Pumping can help with the permit process, so tell us your property location and what you're planning and we'll talk through the next steps with you.

Cost and timeline

How much does a new septic system cost in the Fresno area?

We don't publish a single price because the cost depends on the proposed system, site conditions, access and the approved scope of work. Send us your property address and any plans or reports so we can discuss the project and what an estimate would include. Tank size alone is not enough to price an installation.

How long does a septic installation or repair take from the first call to finished work? (Visalia, Hanford, Clovis)

Timing depends on the project, the site and the approvals involved, so we can't give a single timeframe. Tell us about your project and we'll explain what to expect once we know the scope.

Do you service RVs?

No. Sequoia Pumping serves homes and properties with septic systems and does not provide RV tank services.

Do you rent portable toilets?

No. Sequoia Pumping does not offer porta potty rentals.

Do you service water tanks?

No. Sequoia Pumping does not provide water tank services.

Do you offer estimates?

Yes. Contact us for a service estimate.

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We’d love to help you with your septic tank pumping needs.

Please give us a call or text at
(559) 233-2400 or send us a quick message and we’ll get back to you!