Septic services and maintenance

Most Whidbey Island homes rely on septic tanks and drain fields, and yet many people don’t think of their system as something that needs regular upkeep. In fact, some homeowners are not sure where the access points to their systems are located or the last time they were inspected.

Septic systems can operate hassle-free for many years if they are properly cared for. However, without proper attention it’s easy for small problems to grow into major issues very quickly. That’s why regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring trouble-free operation over the years. Our team focuses on proactive care to spot and circumvent potential issues before they grow into larger problems and ensure your system operates at its designed capacity.

Comprehensive septic inspections

As a locally owned and operated business, Celtic Risers has been providing comprehensive septic system care to Whidbey Island residents for two decades, including inspections, pumping, maintenance, troubleshooting, and small repairs. Whether you need routine servicing or are facing a septic system emergency, our team is available to help you around the clock.

Septic maintenance and small repairs

We offer a comprehensive range of professional septic services to keep your system running smoothly all year long, including:

Septic tank pumping
Tank and drain field locating
Installation of clean-outs for efficient inspection, flushing, and jetting
Riser installation and existing riser modifications

Line jetting services
D-Box replacement
Camera inspection capabilities
Septic pump and float replacement
Air blower replacement
Baffle replacement

Not finding what you are looking for? Give us a call anyway! We would be happy to provide you with a few references for reputable licensed contractors.

Septic emergencies

Do you see a red light or hear a buzzer going off on your system? Give us a call. We are available to address septic emergencies 24/7.

It’s important to note that an alarm doesn’t necessarily signify the need for tank pumping. Often, we can resolve the issue without incurring the cost of pumping prematurely.

When an alarm sounds, it may indicate an issue ranging from excessive water usage due to leaks or overuse or to power supply disruptions. Most systems are designed to trigger an alarm before the pump chamber reaches full capacity, allowing time to engage a service provider and schedule an appointment if necessary. Rest assured, there’s no need to panic. Reach out to us on the same day to report the alarm, and our team will conduct initial troubleshooting over the phone before scheduling a service call.

What is a septic inspection?

A septic inspection involves a comprehensive assessment of all components within your septic system, including tanks, control panels, and the drain field. Each component plays a vital role in the system’s functionality, ensuring household waste can be effectively processed. During these inspections, we assess multiple factors across your system, including the sludge and scum levels in tanks, pump down measurements, and squirt heights in the drain field. This data provides essential information on how the system is functioning. Mechanical components are thoroughly inspected to identify potential issues. During inspections, filters are cleaned, and drain field lines are flushed if accessible.

What are the benefits of a septic inspection?

Septic maintenance is similar to maintaining a car: routine inspections mitigate the risk of unexpected problems. Through regular inspections, potential issues can be identified and addressed proactively, averting costly emergency situations associated with poorly maintained systems. By addressing concerns ahead of time, homeowners can avoid the financial burden and inconvenience of emergency repairs. Over the years in this business, our data supports the fact that customers who do routine inspections of their septic systems are not the ones who are calling with extremely costly emergencies to get them flushing again.

How often should I schedule a septic inspection?

For conventional pressure systems, annual inspections are recommended, while gravity systems should be inspected every three years.

What does routine maintenance include?

Routine maintenance for septic systems includes inspections, pumping (when needed/necessary), filter cleaning, and flushing laterals.

How often should I schedule septic system pumping?

Typically, septic system pumping is recommended every three to five years for average usage. However, the frequency of pumping depends on the usage of the system, which may vary. Instead of scheduling based on timeline, tank dipping is performed to monitor sludge and scum levels in tanks and determine when pumping is necessary. With consistent use and routine inspections, over time, you will get a general idea of how often pumping is required for your specific system.

Why is the alarm going off on my septic system? What does that mean? Help!

Septic system alarms relate to the pump chamber – or aerobic system – and can indicate several different issues. Common causes include excessive water usage, power supply disruptions, or system malfunctions. Most systems are designed to trigger alarms before the pump chamber reaches full capacity, allowing time to contact a service provider for assistance. In the event of an alarm, don’t panic. Give us a call the same day and our team will conduct troubleshooting over the phone before scheduling a service call, often resolving issues without the need for immediate pumping.

What causes a backup? Is this an emergency?

Yes, we do consider backups emergencies and prioritize same-day response to customer calls. If you are unable to reach us on our regular office phone, leave a message and call our emergency phone number provided on our answering machine to ensure your issue receives immediate attention.

Backups often occur due to a plugged filter or inlet baffle, emphasizing the importance of annual filter cleaning. When the septic tank rises above its operating level, effluent (or wastewater) may travel to the least resistant route, potentially backing up into household drains. Signs include effluent emerging in shower drains or beneath toilets, accompanied by burbling and gurgling sounds from drains. Recognizing these signs warrants immediate action – cease water usage and contact us promptly.

Why is it important to have your septic system accessible? And what does “accessible” mean?

Accessibility of a septic system refers to the ease of reaching septic system components without digging and disrupting the landscape. Modern systems feature access risers for convenient entry, while older systems that were not built with risers may require digging for access. Accessible components facilitate swift resolution of emergencies, minimizing disruption to your day. Not having accessible access to tanks will increase the cost for inspection and/or pumping. We strongly recommend installing risers proactively to expedite assistance during unexpected situations.

How does your scheduling work?

At Celtic Risers, we utilize a calendar-based scheduling system. Our approach ensures that our customers have clarity and predictability regarding the timing of our services. Our calendar system allows for organized scheduling of a wide range of services, spanning from scheduled maintenance and repairs to emergency assistance. If you would like to schedule services with us, visit our contact page and reach out via phone or email.

What does Celtic Risers provide for their services?

We are a comprehensive septic maintenance and repair provider, offering a wide range of services tailored to meet our clients’ needs. With extensive knowledge and experience, we specialize in repairing and maintaining the various septic systems installed throughout Island County. Our maintenance services include inspections, pumping, filter cleaning, jetting drain fields, vacuuming drain field laterals and transport lines, treating and cleaning plugged aerobic systems, camera inspections, and locating/marking system components. Additionally, we provide small repairs to effluent pumps, aerator pumps, settled pipes, baffles, riser installations, and can assist in troubleshooting system issues.

If your system reaches the end of its life, we have established partnerships with licensed installers and designers renowned for their quality workmanship, ensuring a seamless transition to a new system.

What is the story behind your name, Celtic Risers?

Celtic Risers derives its name from our founder, Eamonn, who was born and raised in Wexford, Ireland. Upon immigrating to the United States in 2003 and working for a local pumper on South Whidbey, Eamonn recognized the need for a more efficient approach to septic system maintenance. Tired of digging repeated access holes, he established Celtic Risers to streamline the service process by installing risers on septic tanks. Over two decades, the business has evolved into a trusted full-service company, fueled by Eamonn’s unwavering dedication, knowledge, and expertise.

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What sets Celtic Risers apart from other septic providers?

At Celtic Risers, we prioritize personalized service and attention to detail, recognizing that each system presents unique challenges and requirements. We are committed to proactive maintenance, problem prevention, and ongoing education to stay up to date with new technologies enabling us to guide our clients toward cost-effective solutions. With a strong emphasis on exceptional customer service, we value and prioritize our clients’ satisfaction, understanding that they are the cornerstone of our success. Our unwavering dedication to serving our clients fairly and delivering exemplary results has earned us the trust and loyalty of our customers over our two-decade journey.

But don’t just take our word for it. Check out our customer testimonials on our About us page to hear it straight from them!

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