Quick & professional service!! Had us up and running in no time! Highly recommend!
BZ
Bill Zaslow
Nov 4, 2025
5.0
Pumped septic system. Neat, clean, courteous, professional, quick and focused. Could not ask for better service. Our go-to in the past and into the future. You will not be dissappointed.
EJ
Elijah Jones
Oct 25, 2025
5.0
These guys do a great job! Thank you so much!
JH
Jason Harper
Sep 30, 2025
5.0
Our septic system was on its last legs, so we reached out to several companies for quotes. Austin’s was one of the first—and few—to respond, and from that point on the experience was excellent. The entire team was professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. They went above and beyond to meet our needs and ensure everything was taken care of. I highly recommend them for septic system service or replacement!
YS
Yvette shoemaker
Sep 11, 2025
5.0
Cyrus and Braxton what a team! Very professional, respectful and very knowledgeable. Being in the service industry it is great to see 2 people that enjoy what they do! Would give a 10 out of 10 if possible. Again, I have to reiterate What a team you have in these 2!!!
Frequently Asked Questions About Austin's Pumping Service
How does my septic system work?
Your septic system functions as a personal wastewater treatment facility, processing waste from your household. Within the tank, bacteria break down waste into liquid. Solid matter settles at the bottom as sludge, while grease forms a scum layer on top. The liquid then flows through baffles into the drainfield, where it's absorbed and naturally filtered by the soil. For maintenance or repairs, professional plumbing services can ensure your septic system operates efficiently.
Why should I have my septic tank cleaned regularly?
Regular septic tank cleaning and inspections are crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This maintenance prevents issues like slow drains and septic backups. We recommend professional cleaning every two to three years to manage sludge levels, preventing drainfield clogs and ensuring proper liquid absorption. Regular cleaning protects your home, avoids embarrassing sewage problems, prevents costly repairs, and maintains your property's appearance. For expert septic cleaning services, consider contacting Austin's Pumping Service.
How often should my septic tank be cleaned?
The frequency of septic tank cleaning depends on your household's usage patterns. Factors influencing cleaning frequency include the number of residents, garbage disposal use, system age, and guest frequency. The EPA recommends inspecting your septic system at least every three years. Professional plumbers can assess if cleaning is necessary during these inspections and provide a personalized maintenance schedule based on your specific usage. Note that heavy garbage disposal use may necessitate more frequent cleanings due to increased sludge buildup.
What can I do to keep my system running well?
To maintain your septic system's efficiency, have the sludge pumped every two to three years. Avoid disposing of harsh chemicals like paint solvents, bleach, and drain cleaners, as these can harm beneficial waste-breaking bacteria. Never flush items such as diapers, feminine products, or cotton swabs, which can cause blockages. Following these practices can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your system's longevity. For professional advice on septic system maintenance, consult with experienced plumbing services in your area.
What causes the thick crust (scum) in my tank?
The thick crust, or scum, in your septic tank is organic material that has solidified. This often indicates a bacterial imbalance in the system. Treating your tank with a product like Austin's Bio-Treatment can help increase the population of aerobic bacteria and enzymes, which aid in breaking down the scum and converting it to liquid. Professional plumbing services often recommend such treatments to restore balance and maintain efficient operation of your septic system.
What is a grease trap?
A grease trap is a specialized device connected to sink and equipment drains. It slows wastewater flow, allowing fats, oils, and grease (FOG) to cool and rise while solids settle. The remaining water then flows into the sewer system. There are two main types: large outdoor underground interceptors and smaller indoor traps. Professional plumbing services can assist with installation and maintenance of both types to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
What if I don't clean the trap regularly?
Neglecting regular grease trap cleaning can lead to significant issues. Fats, oils, grease, and food solids may bypass the trap, harden in sewer pipes, and cause major plumbing problems. This can result in expensive repairs and business interruptions. Additionally, many local authorities impose fines for improper maintenance. To avoid these problems, consider engaging professional plumbing services for regular grease trap cleaning.
How is a grease trap cleaned?
Grease trap cleaning involves removing all fats, oils, grease, water, and food solids. The process includes scraping and rinsing screens, thoroughly cleaning the trap's interior, clearing the outlet box, refilling with water, and testing for proper flow. The removed waste must be disposed of according to regulations. Finally, the trap's exterior is deodorized and cleaned. Professional plumbing services follow these steps to ensure grease traps function efficiently.
Are fats, oils, and grease a problem?
Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can cause significant problems in sewer systems. They adhere to pipe walls, restricting wastewater flow and potentially causing blockages and overflows. This often necessitates more frequent pipe cleaning and may lead to premature pipe replacement. Clogs and overflows can create unsanitary conditions, damaging businesses and the environment. To prevent these issues, consider regular maintenance and proper cleaning from professional plumbing services.
What types of products contain fats, oils, and/or grease (FOG)?
Common sources of fats, oils, and grease include cooking oils, salad dressings, sandwich spreads, meat, lard, shortening, dairy products, sauces, and butter or margarine. Professional plumbing services often provide education on identifying these products to help customers prevent them from entering drains and grease traps, thereby maintaining the efficiency of their plumbing systems.
How does Austin's Pumping Service maintain my septic system?
They provide professional septic tank services involving bacteria that break down waste, allowing for natural filtration in the soil to keep your system efficient.
Why is regular septic tank cleaning important?
Regular cleaning every two to three years prevents sewage backups and slow drains, extending septic system life and protecting your home.
How often should I schedule septic tank cleaning?
Cleaning frequency depends on household size and use, but EPA recommends inspection at least every three years, with professionals advising customized schedules.
What steps can I take to keep my septic system operating well?
Pump sludge every 2–3 years, avoid disposing harsh chemicals, and never flush blockages-causing items like diapers to prevent costly repairs.
What is a grease trap and why is it important?
A grease trap collects fats, oils, and grease from wastewater to prevent pipe clogs, ensuring proper sewer function and kitchen operations.
What happens if I neglect regular grease trap cleaning?
Neglect leads to hardened grease causing plumbing blockages, expensive repairs, and potential fines from authorities.
What services does Austin's Pumping Service offer?
They offer commercial and residential plumbing, septic tank services, grease trap cleaning, sewer and drain cleaning, and more across Southwest Missouri.
What are the business hours of Austin's Pumping Service?
They operate Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM and are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and certain holidays.
How can the US Post Office near Austin's Pumping Service help customers?
Customers can conveniently mail documents or parcels when visiting Austin's Pumping Service at 120 S Washington St., as the US Post Office is nearby.
What nearby places might customers visit before or after plumbing service?
Customers might visit Common Grounds Coffee Cafe & Bakery for refreshments or Route 66 Trading Company for antiques, both nearby Austin's Pumping Service.
How can Strafford City Hall's proximity benefit customers of Austin's Pumping Service?
Customers handling permits or local regulations related to plumbing can easily visit Strafford City Hall near Austin's Pumping Service for assistance.