November 26, 2025

For each home or a business that depends on a septic tank, a well kept septic system is a must. Your tank is a continuous worker that deals with wastes and the only time it can do its work efficiently is when it is cleaned regularly. The tank will thus lose its capability to work and will cause slow drains, bad smells, backups, and even damage that can cost a lot to fix when it is filled with waste and solids. This is exactly why septic tank cleaning services are so crucial for the long-term health of these systems.
 

At Shortys Septic LLC, we have been in the business for over 45 years helping both residential and commercial customers to keep their septic systems functioning properly. Armed with a Grade Level IV installer license, staff of experts, and fully permitted, licensed, and insured service, we turn septic tank cleaning into a simple, affordable, and no stress experience. This guide is going to direct you through the entire process, tell you what to expect during the service and what factors affect the price.

Septic tank cleaning means the removal of all the solids, sludge, and buildup from the inside of your septic tank. Over some time, the waste will inevitably separate into three layers. The heavier solids will settle down at the bottom of the tank creating sludge, whereas, the oil and grease will float on top as scum. The remaining layer in the tank is mostly liquids that are directed to your drain field.

 

Key Takeaways

• We’ve provided high-quality septic tank services to Rockingham, NC, and surrounding areas for over 45 years, ensuring cleanliness, convenience, and professionalism for every event.
   
• We provide clean and well-maintained bathroom facilities that enhance the overall experience for your attendees.
   
• Our Renting portable toilets ensures guests are comfortable, leading to positive feedback and a successful event.

 

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Cleaned?

Cleaning of most septic tanks is done every 3 to 5 years usually but every place is unique and different. These are the major parameters that dictate the frequency of cleaning:

 

Household size: The more the people, the more the wastewater generated.

 

Tank size: Smaller tanks get filled up quicker.

 

Water use: Heavy usage leads to more cleaning.

 

System age: Old systems may need more frequent checking.

 

Cesspools: These are often in need of service more frequently than others.

 

Shortys Septic LLC adheres to EPA recommendations and gives professional advice that is according to the size and condition of your system. Emergency situations caused by neglecting regular cleaning can be really expensive and very stressful.

 

What to Expect During Septic Tank Cleaning Service

Homeowners often worry that septic tank cleaning will be messy or confusing, but the process is smooth and straightforward when done by trained professionals. Here’s exactly what you can expect during a cleaning with Shorty’s Septic LLC.

 

Arrival and System Inspection

With septic service, one of the main steps in the whole procedure is the arrival and system inspection stage. To be specific, every service at Shorty’s Septic LLC starts with a scrupulous inspection to make sure your system is functioning the way it is supposed to be. The inspection helps us see the condition of your tank before any cleaning or repairs. It also helps avoid problems that can get costly if left unchecked.

Upon arrival, our technicians are punctual and start the process of locating your septic tank. If your tank has a riser, the process is quick and easy. On the other hand, we gently unearth the lid if there is no riser. After the tank has been opened, we check for sludge and scum levels to determine how much the system is full. This information is vital in cleaning method selection and detecting the issues responsible for slow drains and bad odors.

In addition to this, a comprehensive system inspection allows us to inspect the inlet and outlet lines, tank baffles, and the overall tank structure. Our awareness of the inner workings allows us to provide you with clear and honest information throughout the process. With more than four and a half decades of experience, Shortys Septic LLC guarantees that the arrival and system inspection procedure is hassle-free, efficient, and ever so comforting for all customers.

 

Pumping Out the Tank

One of the key maintenance procedures that you should always perform on your septic system is pumping the tank regularly. After a while, the sludge and solid waste are sometimes at the bottom of the tank, while oils and grease float on top. If these layers become too thick, they will not only obstruct the entire system but also result in slow drainage, bad smells, or even a complete backup of sewage in your house. Regular pumping keeps all the layers in their places and thus allows the system to work properly, thus avoiding damage to the drain field.

Shorty’s Septic LLC takes away the hassle of pumping for both residential and commercial clients. We begin by pinpointing the exact spot of your tank and uncovering it, then we use a vacuum truck with a powerful suction to suck away the waste water and solids completely. When the tank is emptied, the whole system is considered to be cleaned, thus we can get to know the possible issues such as broken baffles, clogged lines, or even wear signs.

A pump-out performed by a professional gives your system a new lease on life and extends its lifespan. Regular service will be less costly than treating a problem and will keep your home or business clean and free of emergencies. Look for the signs mentioned i.e. slow drains, gurgling, and bad smell; if any of them is not so faint, it indicates that a cleaning session is due. Simply call Shorty’s Septic LLC at (910) 995-9040 for quick and dependable service that you can always rely on.

 

Cleaning and Scraping the Tank Interior

Pump-out the tank's liquids and solids and do nothing else; that is not the proper septic maintenance method! Among the foremost actions in professional septic service is interior tank cleaning and scraping. This maintains the system's working condition and avoids expensive problems in the future. Shorty’s Septic LLC takes special precautions to ensure that in every service, your septic tank is not only emptied but also completely cleaned, regardless of size.

The tank when pumped may still have thick sludge layers stuck on the walls and the bottom. If the thick sludge is left behind, it will continue to grow and this will reduce the holding capacity of your tank. This can eventually push solids into your drainfield and cause clogs, backups, or total system failure. The cleaning and scraping process of the tank interior gives the system a fresh start and smooth operation.

The trained technicians at our company use the proper tools and equipment to not only break down tough buildups but also wash away the trapped wastes. Performing this extra step is a sure way to prolong the life of your septic system and to keep your house free from unpleasant incidents. If what you are looking for is a reliable septic service that comes with full interior cleaning, contact Shorty’s Septic LLC at (910) 995-9040 today.

 

Inspection of Components

The effective functioning of a septic system entirely depends on the proper functioning of its components. Therefore, component inspection is considered the most critical step during septic service. Shorty’s Septic LLC carries out a meticulous check of your system to prevent the occurrence of costly damage from minor issues. During the tank cleaning, our staff inspects the baffles, inlet and outlet lines, and the general condition of the tank. This allows us to detect wear, corrosion, or blockages, which are the reasons for backups or slow drains, at an early stage.

The full inspection of the components also helps the drain field to be protected. The vibrating of solids past the outlet baffle is a sure way to ensure the soil gets clogged and that whole area is burnt out. Our technicians will search for anything that may hinder the system's flow so that we can provide the best solution suitable for your home or business.

Component inspections regularly performed keep the septic system operating safely and also help to prolong its lifespan. Shorty’s Septic LLC with over 45 years of experience offers a reliable professional service you can count on. Would you like to work with a crew that clarifies everything and guarantees careful treatment? Call us today at (910) 995-9040.


Conclusion
One of the most significant measures to keep your septic system operating without any issues is septic tank cleaning. Periodic cleaning cleans your property, prevents your septic system from failing, and allows your system to function for many years. No matter whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, being consistent with maintenance can prevent you from spending thousands of dollars on future repairs.

Shortys Septic LLC takes great pride in being Rockingham's septic service provider for more than 45 years and has gained the trust of the people. Our services include septic tank cleaning and repairs, inspections, and portable toilet rentals, and we aim to make the whole experience easy, cost-effective, and hassle-free. If you want dependable service from a local family-owned company that values customer satisfaction, then we are here to help.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does septic tank cleaning take?
In most cases, the process of cleaning takes anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size and condition of the tank.

What will happen if I avoid septic tank cleaning indefinitely?
The solids will fill up the tank completely and will start to cause problems like clogs, sewage backing up, and drain field damage. Reparations might end up being terribly expensive.

Is pumping a septic tank the same as cleaning?
Pumping out the septic tank gets rid of the liquids and solids, whereas the cleaning process gets rid of the sludge that has been stuck to the tank walls. Shorty’s does both when they come out for service.

Can I do the septic tank cleaning myself?
Absolutely not. The proper way of septic cleaning is to use professional equipment and employ well trained personnel. DIY efforts are dangerous and sometimes even illegal.

Are there bad odors before and after septic cleaning?
Yes, indeed. If the odors are due to an overfilled tank or buildup, cleaning the tank will soon remove the smell.