Tanks Emptied Before Problems Start

Select Excavating & Landscaping provides septic pumping services throughout Salem.

When your septic tank fills with solids, drains slow down, toilets gurgle, and wastewater can back up into your home. Waiting too long between pumpings allows sludge to reach the leach field, which clogs the soil and shortens the life of your entire system. In Salem, most residential tanks need pumping every two to three years depending on household size and water use.


Select Excavating & Landscaping provides septic pumping services for residential properties and managed sites in Salem. The service includes locating and uncovering the tank access, pumping all liquid and solid waste, and proper handling and disposal at approved facilities. Routine pumping helps extend system lifespan and prevents failures that require expensive repairs or full replacements.


If your tank is due for pumping or you are unsure when it was last serviced in Salem, reach out to schedule an appointment.

What Happens When the Truck Arrives

The crew locates your tank access lid, removes soil if needed, and opens the tank to inspect the level of solids and scum. A vacuum hose is inserted into the tank, and all contents are pumped into the truck. In Salem, some older tanks have multiple compartments that each need pumping to clear the system completely.


After pumping, your drains work faster, toilets flush without hesitation, and there is no odor around the tank or leach field. The tank is clean and ready to handle normal wastewater flow for the next several years.


The crew may note the condition of baffles, the inlet pipe, and the tank walls during the service. If damage is found, you will be told what needs repair and why. The access lid is replaced and recovered.  All waste is disposed of following regulations in Rockingham County.

Common Concerns Homeowners Bring Up

Septic pumping is routine maintenance, but if it has been years since your last service or you have never had it done, it is normal to have questions.

How do I know when my septic tank needs pumping?

Slow drains, gurgling sounds, and sewage odor near the tank or drains are common signs. Most tanks should be pumped every two to three years even if you do not notice symptoms.

What happens if I wait too long to pump the tank?
Solids overflow into the leach field and clog the soil, which reduces drainage and can lead to system failure. Repairing a failed leach field costs far more than routine pumping.
How long does a septic pumping appointment take?

Most residential pumpings take between 15 to 30 minutes depending on tank size, access conditions, and how full the tank is. If the lid needs to be uncovered, it may take longer.

Why does the crew inspect the tank during pumping?
Inspecting the tank while it is empty allows the crew to spot cracks, broken baffles, or damaged inlet pipes that could cause future problems. Early repairs prevent bigger failures.
What should I do with the waste after pumping?
You do not need to do anything. Select Excavating & Landscaping handles all waste removal and disposal at approved facilities following local and state regulations.

Select Excavating & Landscaping serves properties across Rockingham County and knows how to handle different tank types, access situations, and site conditions. If you need septic pumping in Salem or want to set up a regular schedule, contact the team to arrange service.