Septic Tank Service in Chattanooga, TN
Rural and semi-rural properties around Chattanooga rely on septic systems that need regular attention to keep working, and problems that go unnoticed underground can turn into a backed-up drain field that costs far more to fix than routine pumping ever would. South East Total Service pumps, inspects, repairs, and installs septic systems for homes and businesses throughout Hamilton County and North Georgia, all handled by our own crews rather than a subcontractor.
Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Service
- Slow drains throughout the house, especially after heavy water use
- Gurgling sounds coming from toilets or drains
- Sewage odor near the tank, drain field, or inside the home
- Standing water or unusually lush, green grass over the drain field
- It's been three or more years since the tank was last pumped
- Backups in the lowest drains of the house

Septic Tank Pumping & Cleaning
Regular pumping is the single most effective way to avoid an expensive septic failure. Most residential tanks need pumping every three to five years depending on household size and water usage, and we handle the full service, locating and accessing the tank, pumping out solids and sludge, and inspecting the tank’s condition while it’s open.

Septic Tank Repair
From a cracked lid or riser to a failing baffle or a drain field that’s no longer absorbing water properly, we diagnose and repair septic system components without defaulting to a full system replacement unless that’s genuinely the right call. Our preventative maintenance products, including ROOT X root control treatment applied through the outside cleanout, can also extend the life of an aging system.

Septic System Installation & Replacement
We install standard gravity septic systems, low pressure pump systems, pump stations, and sand mound systems, sized to the property’s soil conditions and household demand. When an existing system has failed beyond repair, we handle full replacement, including drain field work, to bring the property back into compliant, reliable service.

Drain Field & Grease Trap Service
A septic system is only as good as its drain field, so we inspect and repair drain fields and leach fields alongside the tank itself. We also install and pump grease traps for commercial kitchens and restaurants, which fall under similar maintenance requirements to keep local health and wastewater codes satisfied.
Why Choose South East Total Service for Septic Service
- Full septic scope handled in house: pumping, inspection, repair, installation, and drain field work.
- Preventative maintenance programs and product recommendations to extend system life.
- Experience with standard gravity systems, low pressure pump systems, pump stations, and sand mound systems.
- Licensed, bonded, and insured under Tennessee contractor license #60836.
- Upfront, flat pricing on pumping, repair, and installation.
Chattanooga & North Georgia Service Area
We provide septic tank pumping, repair, and installation throughout Chattanooga and the surrounding region.
Tennessee
- Chattanooga
- South Side Chattanooga
- East Brainerd
- Hixson
- Lookout Mountain
- Harrison
- North Chattanooga
- Saint Elmo
- East Ridge
- Soddy Daisy
- Ooltewah
- Tiftonia
- Downtown Chattanooga
- Brainerd
- Red Bank
- Signal Mountain
- Collegedale
- Dayton
Georgia
- Ringgold
- Chickamauga
- Fort Oglethorpe
- Tunnel Hill
- Rossville
- Chattanooga Valley
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
Most residential septic tanks need pumping every three to five years, depending on the size of the tank and household water usage. Larger households or homes with garbage disposals often need more frequent pumping.
What are the warning signs of a failing septic system?
Slow drains, gurgling sounds from toilets, sewage odor near the tank or drain field, standing water or unusually green grass over the drain field, and backups in the lowest drains of the house are all signs that warrant an inspection.
How much does septic tank pumping cost?
Cost depends on the size of the tank and how accessible it is. We provide an upfront, flat price before pumping begins, so there are no surprise charges on the invoice.
Can a failing drain field be repaired, or does it need full replacement?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Some drain field issues can be resolved with targeted repair or preventative treatment, while a drain field that has failed structurally may need partial or full replacement. We inspect the system before recommending either option.
Do you install grease traps for commercial kitchens?
Yes. We install and pump grease traps for restaurants and commercial kitchens, helping properties stay compliant with local health and wastewater requirements.
Call Us Today
Don’t wait for a backup to find out your septic system needs attention. Schedule septic service online or call 423-499-2911 to reach a licensed Chattanooga plumber today.