Emergency Septic Service in New Bern, NC
Sewage coming up through a tub or floor drain is an emergency. Call now, describe what’s happening, and a local septic pro will tell you how fast someone can get there.
Most backups come down to a full tank, a clog in the line between the house and the tank, or a drain field that has stopped taking water. Each one needs a different fix, so describing what you see helps the right truck come out.
Do this first
- Stop using water: no laundry, dishwasher, showers, or flushing
- Keep kids and pets away from sewage, inside and in the yard
- Don’t open the tank lid or lean over an open tank
- If a pump alarm is sounding, note which alarm and don’t reset it repeatedly
- Take photos for your records, from a safe distance
Why you shouldn’t open the tank yourself
Septic tanks hold gases such as hydrogen sulfide and methane, and people have died after leaning into or climbing into a tank. An open tank is also a fall hazard for children and pets. Leave the lid to the septic crew.
Pump alarms
Some systems use a pump to move wastewater from a pump tank out to the drain field. Those systems usually have an alarm that sounds when the water level gets too high. An alarm can mean the pump has failed, a float is stuck, or a breaker has tripped. Cutting back on water use buys some time, but the alarm needs a service call.
After heavy rain
When the ground is saturated, a drain field can’t absorb water the way it normally does, and drains may slow down even with a tank that’s been pumped. Cutting back on water use for a few days can help. If the problem doesn’t clear up once the ground dries out, or sewage is coming into the house, call.
Septic trouble? Get it handled.
Call for a free estimate. No obligation, and you’ll talk to a local septic pro.
Emergency Septic Service: common questions
Sewage is coming up in my shower. What do I do right now?
Stop all water use in the house and call. Most backups are a full tank or a clog between the house and the tank, and both can usually be handled quickly.
Will pumping the tank fix a backup?
If the tank is full, pumping gives immediate relief. If the drain field has failed, pumping only buys time, and the field itself needs attention.
Does homeowners insurance cover septic backups?
It varies by policy. Some policies need a separate sewer or water backup endorsement. Call your insurer, and keep your photos and the septic company’s invoice.
Serving New Bern and nearby towns
Emergency Septic Service is available throughout New Bern and the surrounding area. Find your town for local details.