Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often should grease traps be cleaned?

    Most restaurants and commercial kitchens should have grease traps cleaned every 1-3 months depending on volume and usage. Regular cleaning prevents blockages, foul odors, and health code violations. At Plainsman Pumping, we help Auburn, AL businesses stay compliant with local standards.
  • What happens during a septic tank inspection?

    A comprehensive inspection examines structural integrity, pipe operation, and solids levels inside the tank. If needed, excavation is performed to access buried components. This service is especially important for home buyers and sellers in Auburn to identify potential issues before closing.
  • How long does commercial septic tank pumping take?

    Most commercial septic pumping jobs, including locating, inspecting, and clearing the tank, typically take about two hours to complete. Service time depends on tank size and accessibility. Plainsman Pumping provides efficient service for office buildings, restaurants, and bars throughout Auburn and Opelika.
  • What causes a septic system backup?

    Backups occur when solid waste accumulates to critical levels, pipes become blocked, or the drain field fails. Infrequent pumping is the most common cause. Regular maintenance and pumping every 3-5 years prevent most emergency situations and costly repairs.
  • Can I get same-day septic pumping service?

    Yes, same-day septic tank pumping is available for both residential and commercial customers to prevent backups and costly repairs. Emergency services are also offered 24/7 for urgent overflows and system failures throughout the Auburn area.
  • What's included in grease trap cleaning service?

    Professional grease trap cleaning includes removing all grease, solids, and wastewater from the trap, scraping walls and baffles, and disposing of waste properly. This ensures compliance with local health and safety standards for restaurants, bars, and commercial kitchens in Auburn, AL.
  • Why do drain fields fail?

    Drain fields fail when solid waste clogs soil pores, excessive water saturates the ground, or tree roots invade pipes. Proper maintenance and regular septic pumping extend drain field life. Inspection and repair services can identify leach field problems early before complete system replacement is needed.
  • What are the benefits of preventive septic maintenance?

    Regular preventive maintenance extends your septic system's lifespan, prevents costly emergency repairs, and ensures optimal performance. Scheduled inspections and pumping catch small problems before they become major failures. At Plainsman Pumping, we design maintenance programs tailored to your system's needs.
  • Do restaurants need grease trap compliance in Auburn?

    Yes, restaurants, bars, and commercial kitchens in Auburn, AL must maintain grease traps to meet local health and safety standards. Regular professional cleaning prevents violations, fines, and operational shutdowns. Compliance protects your business license and keeps wastewater systems functioning properly.
  • What's the biggest mistake with septic systems?

    The biggest mistake is neglecting regular pumping, which leads to overflows, backups, and expensive drain field damage. Many homeowners wait until problems appear instead of scheduling maintenance every 3-5 years. Proactive care saves thousands in repair costs and system replacements.
  • Is excavation required for septic inspections?

    Excavation is sometimes necessary during comprehensive inspections to access buried tank components, lids, or inlet and outlet pipes. This allows inspectors to examine structural integrity and identify hidden issues. Plainsman Pumping has excavation capabilities to complete thorough assessments when needed.
  • How do I know if my commercial septic needs pumping?

    Signs include slow drains, sewage odors, standing water near the tank, or gurgling sounds in plumbing. High-volume facilities like restaurants should pump more frequently than lower-use buildings. Regular inspections help determine the right pumping schedule for your Auburn business.