Question 1

How do I know if my cesspool needs to be pumped?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include slow drains, foul odors, gurgling sounds in your plumbing, wet spots in the yard, and backups in toilets or sinks. If it’s been more than 2–3 years since your last service, it’s time to schedule a pump-out.

Question 2

What happens if I don’t pump my cesspool regularly?

Accepted Answer

Failing to maintain your cesspool can lead to system overflows, sewage backups, property damage, and even environmental hazards. Regular pumping helps prevent emergencies and extends the life of your system.

Question 3

How long does cesspool pumping take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential pump-outs take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the tank and how full it is. Our team works efficiently to minimize disruption to your day.

Question 4

Is cesspool pumping messy or invasive?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. M&D uses professional equipment to perform clean, contained pump-outs. We treat your property with respect and always clean up after the job is done.

Question 5

How much does cesspool pumping cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing depends on the size of your system and the level of buildup, but we always offer transparent, upfront quotes—no surprises. Call us for a free estimate.

Question 6

How often should a septic tank be cleaned?

Accepted Answer

Most septic tanks should be cleaned every 3 to 5 years. However, the right frequency depends on your tank size, household size, water usage, and system condition.

Question 7

What are the signs my septic tank needs cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Watch for slow drains, unpleasant odors, sewage backups, soggy areas in your yard, or gurgling sounds from your plumbing. These are all signs your tank may be full.

Question 8

What’s the difference between septic tank pumping and cleaning?

Accepted Answer

“Pumping” removes liquid and floating waste, while “cleaning” includes removing all solids and sludge at the bottom of the tank. At M&D, we perform full cleaning to ensure your system is thoroughly maintained.

Question 9

Can I use additives to avoid septic tank cleaning?

Accepted Answer

No. While some additives claim to break down waste, they don't eliminate the need for regular cleaning. In fact, overuse of additives can sometimes harm your system.

Question 10

What happens if I wait too long to clean my septic tank?

Accepted Answer

Delaying service can cause solids to enter your drain field, leading to clogs, contamination, and costly system failures. Regular cleaning is far more affordable than repairs.

Question 11

What is hydro-jetting and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Hydro-jetting uses a high-pressure water stream—up to 4,000 PSI—to clear blockages and buildup inside your pipes. A specialized nozzle is inserted into the drain line to break through grease, sludge, roots, and debris, flushing it all out completely.

Question 12

Is hydro-jetting safe for all pipes?

Accepted Answer

Yes—for most plumbing systems. Our technicians inspect your pipes before starting to ensure they can handle the pressure. For older or fragile pipes, we’ll recommend the safest approach.

Question 13

How is hydro-jetting different from snaking?

Accepted Answer

Snaking punches a hole through a clog, often leaving residue behind. Hydro-jetting thoroughly cleans the entire pipe interior, which helps prevent future blockages.

Question 14

When should I consider hydro-jetting?

Accepted Answer

It’s ideal for recurring clogs, slow drains, foul odors, or heavy grease buildup. It’s also a great preventive measure for commercial kitchens and older plumbing systems.

Question 15

Does hydro-jetting cause a mess?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. The process is clean and contained within your plumbing system. Our technicians ensure everything is sealed, and we clean up fully after the job.

Question 16

What is a sewer camera inspection?

Accepted Answer

A sewer camera inspection involves inserting a waterproof, high-definition camera into your pipes. It sends a live video feed to our technicians, allowing us to see clogs, cracks, root intrusion, or collapsed lines without digging.

Question 17

When should I schedule a camera inspection?

Accepted Answer

Camera inspections are ideal if you're experiencing recurring clogs, slow drains in multiple fixtures, unexplained odors, or if you're buying or selling a property. They’re also helpful after major repairs to verify work.

Question 18

Will a camera inspection damage my plumbing?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. The process is completely non-invasive. The camera is flexible and designed to safely travel through your pipes without causing any disruption.

Question 19

What can a camera inspection find that a plumber can’t see otherwise?

Accepted Answer

It can identify hidden problems like pipe misalignment, breaks, tree root intrusion, corrosion, and grease buildup—issues that can’t be diagnosed with traditional methods.

Question 20

Do I get a copy of the footage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Upon request, we can provide a copy of the inspection video or snapshots of problem areas. This is especially useful for insurance claims or real estate transactions.

Question 21

How often should my grease trap be cleaned?

Accepted Answer

Most commercial kitchens need grease trap cleaning every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and local health regulations. A regular schedule helps you avoid backups and violations.

Question 22

What happens if I don’t clean my grease trap?

Accepted Answer

Neglecting grease trap maintenance can lead to slow drains, foul odors, kitchen shutdowns, and costly plumbing issues. It can also result in health code violations and fines.

Question 23

How long does grease trap cleaning take?

Accepted Answer

Most cleanings take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the trap size and how full it is. Our team works efficiently to minimize disruption to your business.

Question 24

Do I need to shut down my kitchen during service?

Accepted Answer

Not always. We’ll work with you to schedule cleaning at off-hours or during slow periods to avoid interrupting your operation.

Question 25

What do you do with the grease after cleaning?

Accepted Answer

We dispose of grease waste in accordance with all local and state regulations, ensuring your business remains compliant and environmentally responsible.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions