FAQ
Septic and Grease Trap FAQs Los Angeles | All In Sanitation
Septic Tank Pumping FAQs
How do I know if my septic tank is full?
Signs include slow drains, sewage odors, gurgling sounds in plumbing, and standing water near the tank or drain field. Multiple fixtures draining slowly simultaneously indicates system-wide issues requiring immediate pumping.
Can I pump my septic tank myself?
No. California requires licensed waste haulers for septic pumping. Self-pumping violates environmental regulations and creates liability for improper disposal. Professional pumping includes proper manifest documentation, licensed disposal facilities, and liability protection.
What is included in septic tank pumping?
The service includes removing solids and sludge from the tank, inspecting inlet/outlet baffles, checking for cracks or root intrusion, cleaning or replacing filters (if equipped), securing lids, and providing disposal documentation. Complete evacuation using high-capacity vacuum trucks ensures system restoration.
How much does septic tank pumping cost in Los Angeles?
Septic tank pumping costs $300 to $600 for residential systems:
- 1,000-gallon tank: $300–$400
- 1,250-gallon tank: $350–$475
- 1,500-gallon tank: $425–$550
- 2,000+ gallons: Custom quote
Commercial systems range from $500 to $900. Factors include accessibility, sludge levels, and emergency timing. Free written estimates provided.
How often should I pump my septic tank in Los Angeles?
Pump every 3 to 5 years for normal residential use. Adjust frequency based on:
- Household size: 5+ people need every 2–3 years
- Garbage disposal use: Increases solids by 50%, pump every 2–3 years
- Home office/business: Additional bathroom use accelerates filling
- Previous issues: Systems with backup history need more frequent service
Commercial properties require annual or semi-annual pumping. Annual inspections recommended for optimal timing.
Can heavy rainfall affect my septic system?
Yes. Los Angeles winter rains saturate drain fields, reducing absorption capacity. This slows the system and can cause backups if maintenance is overdue. Reduce water use during storms and consider pre-winter pumping before El Niño years.
How long does a septic system last?
With proper maintenance, septic systems last 25–40 years. Regular pumping every 3–5 years prevents premature failure. Neglecting maintenance causes solids to enter the drain field, requiring $5,000–$20,000 replacement costs.
What happens if I don’t pump my septic tank?
Neglecting pumping causes system failure, sewage backups, and permanent drain field damage. Untreated solids overflow into the drain field, clogging soil pores. Warning signs include slow drains, odors, gurgling pipes, and wet spots. Los Angeles County may fine property owners for environmental contamination.
Grease Trap Cleaning FAQs
What is a grease trap?
A grease trap is a plumbing device that captures fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they enter the sewer system. Indoor units (20–100 gallons) fit under sinks. Outdoor interceptors (1,000–5,000+ gallons) serve entire facilities. Both use retention time and baffles to separate FOG from wastewater.
How often should I schedule grease trap cleaning?
California restaurants must clean grease traps every 30 to 90 days based on cooking volume. Los Angeles County enforces the 25% Rule—cleaning mandatory when grease/solids exceed 25% of trap capacity:
- High-volume frying: Every 30 days
- Moderate-volume restaurants: Every 60 days
- Light food prep: Every 90 days
Failure to maintain records results in $250–$1,000 daily fines.
Can I ignore grease trap maintenance?
No. Neglected grease traps cause sewer backups, kitchen closures, health code violations, and expensive repairs. FOG solidifies in pipes, creating blockages that shut down operations. Health inspectors review maintenance logs during routine inspections. Non-compliance triggers immediate fines and potential business closure.
Do you clean all sizes of grease traps?
Yes. We service small indoor grease traps (20–50 gallons) and large outdoor interceptors (1,000–5,000+ gallons). Indoor traps cost $250–$450 to clean. Outdoor interceptors range from $400–$800 depending on capacity.
What is the process for cleaning a grease trap?
The process includes pumping out grease and sludge, scraping trap walls, inspecting inlet/outlet tees, checking gaskets and seals, pressure washing (outdoor units), and safely disposing of waste. Complete documentation provided for health department compliance.
Will grease trap cleaning disrupt my kitchen operations?
We schedule service to minimize downtime—early morning, between meal rushes, or after hours. Most cleanings take 1–2 hours. Emergency service available 24/7 for critical situations. Maintenance contracts receive priority scheduling during off-peak hours.
How much does grease trap cleaning cost in Los Angeles?
Grease trap cleaning costs $250 to $600:
- Indoor traps (20–50 gallons): $250–$375
- Outdoor interceptors (1,000–1,500 gallons): $400–$500
- Large commercial (2,000–5,000 gallons): $500–$800
Monthly maintenance contracts receive 15% discounts. Emergency after-hours service adds $100–$200.
Hydro Jetting FAQs
What is hydro jetting and how does it work?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water (3,000–8,000 PSI) to clear grease, scale, sludge, and debris from sewer and drain pipes. Specialized nozzles propel water backward to scour the entire pipe circumference, restoring full flow capacity. Video inspection confirms clearance.
Is hydro jetting safe for old pipes?
Yes, when performed by trained professionals. Technicians adjust pressure based on pipe material and condition. Pre-inspection identifies fragile areas. Safe for cast iron, PVC, clay, and most commercial piping. Not recommended for severely damaged or collapsed pipes.
When should hydro jetting be used?
Hydro jetting is recommended for:
- Recurring clogs: Same drain clogs monthly despite snaking
- Multiple slow drains: Indicates main line blockage
- Grease buildup: Restaurant kitchen lines with accumulated FOG
- Tree root intrusion: Roots in sewer lateral
- Pipe scaling: Mineral buildup in cast iron pipes
- Pre-lining prep: Cleaning before trenchless repair
How long does hydro jetting take?
Most residential services take 1–3 hours depending on pipe length and blockage severity. Commercial grease lines may require 2–4 hours. Includes video inspection, jetting, and final verification. Longer than snaking but lasts 3–4 times longer.
Does hydro jetting prevent future clogs?
Yes. Unlike snaking (which punches a hole through clogs), hydro jetting completely cleans pipe walls, removing buildup that causes recurring blockages. Residential main lines stay clear 2–4 years after jetting. Commercial grease lines remain clear 1–3 years.
How much does hydro jetting cost compared to snaking?
Hydro jetting costs $450–$900 in Los Angeles. Snaking costs $150–$300. While jetting costs 2–3× more initially, it lasts significantly longer. For commercial grease lines, jetting provides 1–3 years of clear flow versus weeks/months from snaking—making it more cost-effective long-term.
Sewer Line Cleaning FAQs
What is sewer line cleaning?
Sewer line cleaning removes blockages, grease buildup, tree roots, and debris from the main sewer pipe connecting your property to the municipal system or septic tank. Methods include hydro jetting, mechanical snaking, and root removal.
How do I know if my sewer line is clogged?
Signs include slow drains in multiple fixtures, gurgling toilets, foul odors, water backing up into showers/tubs, and pooling in floor drains. Multiple affected fixtures indicate main line blockage versus isolated drain clogs.
Can sewer line cleaning prevent emergency plumbing issues?
Yes. Regular cleaning every 18–24 months (residential) or 6–12 months (commercial) prevents backups, foul odors, and pipe damage. Prevents emergency calls that cost 40–60% more than scheduled service.
How often should sewer lines be cleaned?
- Residential lines: Every 18–24 months
- Commercial lines: Every 6–12 months depending on volume
- Restaurant grease lines: Every 3–6 months
- Properties with mature trees: Annual inspection recommended
Do you handle root intrusion?
Yes. Our hydro jetting services remove tree roots safely from sewer lines. Specialized root-cutting nozzles clear intrusion without damaging pipes. Follow-up with root-killing foam treatments prevents regrowth. Severe cases may require pipe lining or replacement.
Is sewer line cleaning messy or disruptive?
Professional cleaning uses self-contained equipment designed to minimize mess. Access through cleanouts prevents interior disruption. Most residential services completed in 2–3 hours with immediate return to normal use. Commercial services scheduled during off-hours.
Service & Pricing FAQs
What areas does All In Sanitation service?
We provide septic tank pumping and grease trap cleaning throughout Los Angeles County and Ventura County. Primary service areas include Santa Monica, Burbank, Pasadena, Santa Clarita, Malibu, Hollywood, Downtown LA, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Thousand Oaks. Same-day service with 24/7 emergency response.
Are you licensed for both septic and grease trap waste disposal?
Yes. We maintain:
- California C-42 Sanitation Contractor License
- Los Angeles County approved waste hauler
- Ventura County licensed waste transporter
- EPA-compliant manifest tracking
$2 million general liability insurance, workers compensation, and OSHA-certified technicians.
Is there a discount for scheduling septic and grease trap service together?
Yes. Properties with both systems receive 10% off combined service when scheduled simultaneously. Reduces trip charges and allows coordinated documentation. Ideal for rural restaurants, agricultural facilities, and commercial properties on private septic.
How do I schedule service?
Call (818) 698-4252 (24/7 emergency line), email info@allinsanitation.com, or schedule online at AllInSanitation.com. Provide address, system type, tank size (if known), and preferred timing. Receive 30-minute call-ahead before technician arrival.
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes. 24/7 emergency plumbing and sanitation services available. Response times:
- Zone 1 (Santa Monica/Malibu): 30 minutes
- Zone 2 (Burbank/Pasadena): 45 minutes
- Zone 3 (Downtown/Hollywood): 60 minutes
- Zone 4 (Santa Clarita): 90 minutes
Emergency rates: Base + $100 (standard hours), + $150 (after hours), + $125 (weekends/holidays).
Do you offer preventative maintenance programs?
Yes. Custom plans available:
- Septic: Annual inspections, priority scheduling, 10–20% discounts
- Grease Traps: Monthly/bi-monthly service, compliance documentation, 15% discounts
- Combined: Quarterly inspections, coordinated scheduling, 15% discount, single point of contact
Maintenance contract customers receive priority scheduling and automated reminders.
Are your services environmentally friendly?
Yes. We follow all local regulations and safely dispose of waste. Septic waste processed at licensed facilities through anaerobic digestion (biogas recovery). Grease trap waste recycled into biodiesel (75% carbon reduction vs. petroleum). Complete manifest documentation for environmental compliance.
Compliance & Documentation FAQs
Is grease trap cleaning required by law in Los Angeles?
Yes. Los Angeles County Code requires all food service establishments to:
- Install and maintain grease traps
- Use licensed waste haulers for all pumping
- Document service with waste manifests
- Retain 90 days of maintenance records on-site
- Clean before grease/solids exceed 25% of capacity
Violations result in $250–$1,000 daily fines, business closure, and potential EPA enforcement.
What documentation do I receive after service?
Every service includes:
- Waste manifest with hauler license and disposal facility
- Service date and tank/trap condition assessment
- Volume pumped or sludge level measured
- Photo documentation (available on request)
- Next service recommendation
- Itemized invoice for tax/accounting records
Grease trap services include health department compliance forms. Electronic records maintained for backup.
Do I need a septic inspection when buying a house?
California law does not mandate septic inspections, but they are strongly recommended. Lenders often require them for FHA/VA loans. Inspections cost $300–$650 versus potential $20,000+ surprise repairs. Our real estate inspections include tank condition, drain field assessment, and written documentation for negotiations.
What’s the difference between a grease trap and grease interceptor?
| Feature | Grease Trap | Grease Interceptor |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 20–100 gallons | 1,000–5,000+ gallons |
| Location | Indoor, under sink | Outdoor, underground |
| Service Frequency | Every 30–90 days | Every 60–90 days |
| Installation | Retrofit, small kitchens | New construction, large facilities |
| Cost to Clean | $250–$450 | $400–$800 |
| LA Requirement | Small/limited food prep | Full-service restaurants |
Both separate FOG using retention time and baffles. Interceptors handle higher volumes with longer intervals.
System Care & Troubleshooting FAQs
What should I do between pumping services?
For septic systems: Space water usage, fix leaks immediately, use water-efficient fixtures, keep drain field clear (no driving/building), avoid garbage disposals (increases solids 50%), never flush wipes/chemicals. For grease traps: Scrape plates into trash, wipe cookware before washing, use sink strainers, never pour oil down drains, report slow drains immediately.
Can I use additives to reduce pumping frequency?
No substitute for pumping. Biological additives support bacterial health but only extend intervals by weeks, not months. Avoid chemical additives claiming to eliminate pumping—these damage systems and violate regulations. We provide professional-grade treatments as part of maintenance programs.
My septic system and grease trap are both backing up. Are they connected?
Possibly. In commercial properties with both systems, grease trap failure can overload septic systems with FOG, or septic failure can cause building-wide backups. Immediate action: Stop all water use, call for emergency service. Our technicians diagnose interconnections and provide coordinated repairs.
Can grease damage my septic system?
Absolutely. FOG is the leading cause of septic failure. Grease coats tank walls, prevents bacterial action, clogs drain field pipes, and creates impenetrable scum layers. Restaurants on septic must have grease traps and never allow kitchen waste into septic systems.
Why does my septic tank fill faster in winter?
Los Angeles winter rains saturate drain fields, reducing absorption. Groundwater rise limits capacity. Holiday guests increase water usage. Solutions: Pre-winter pumping, water conservation during storms, drain field drainage inspection. Consider annual fall pumping before rainy season.
Contact Information
Phone: (818) 698-4252 (24/7 emergency line)
Email:info@allinsanitation.com
Website: AllInSanitation.com
Business Hours: Monday–Saturday 7 AM–8 PM (Emergency 24/7)
Service Area: All of Los Angeles County and Ventura County
Have a question not answered here? Call us for personalized assistance.
