Sewage backing up? Call (775) 552-5179 now.
A septic backup is stressful, messy and a health risk. Carson Valley Septic gets you connected fast with a licensed local septic provider serving Carson City, Gardnerville, Minden and the rest of the Carson Valley. Call and tell us what you’re seeing.
What counts as a septic emergency?
- Sewage backing up into a tub, shower, toilet or floor drain
- Toilets that won’t flush anywhere in the house
- Sewage surfacing in the yard or pooling near the tank
- A septic pump alarm that won’t stop
- A collapsed or open tank lid (a serious safety hazard)
- Strong sewage odors inside the home
What to do right now
- Stop using water. No laundry, dishwasher, showers or flushing until the system is checked. Every gallon you use has to go somewhere.
- Keep people and pets away from any sewage, inside or outside.
- Don’t open the tank yourself. Septic tanks contain dangerous gases, and an open or collapsed lid is a fall hazard.
- Don’t pour chemicals down the drain to try to clear it. They can harm the system and the people working on it.
- Call (775) 552-5179 and describe what’s happening, where the backup is, and when the tank was last pumped.
Common causes of septic emergencies
- A full tank that hasn’t been pumped in years
- A blocked line between the house and the tank, from wipes, grease or roots
- A failed pump or float on a system with a pump tank
- A failing leach field that can no longer absorb water
- Frozen lines during a Northern Nevada cold snap
- Heavy water use in a short time, like a house full of holiday guests
How emergency service usually works
The provider will ask a few questions on the phone to understand the problem, then send a technician. Typically they’ll locate and open the tank, pump it if needed, and find out whether the backup is caused by a full tank, a blocked line, a pump failure or a field problem. You’ll get an explanation and pricing before any repair beyond the initial service.
Availability after hours, on weekends and on holidays depends on the provider and the day. Call (775) 552-5179 and we’ll tell you what’s possible.
When the problem might not be the septic
If only one fixture is backed up, the clog may be in that drain rather than the septic system. If every drain in the house is slow or backing up, especially the lowest ones, the septic system or main line is the likely cause. Either way, the provider can help sort it out.
Cleanup and safety
Raw sewage carries bacteria and viruses. Wear gloves and boots, keep children and pets away, and wash thoroughly after any contact. For major indoor backups, ask about professional cleanup. Keep a record and photos for your homeowner’s insurance.
After the emergency
Once the immediate problem is solved, ask what caused it and what will prevent it next time. That may be a regular septic pumping schedule, a septic repair such as a new baffle or pump, or drain field repair.
Areas we serve for emergency septic calls
Carson City, Gardnerville, Minden, Genoa, Johnson Lane, Indian Hills, Gardnerville Ranchos, Fish Springs, Ruhenstroth and Dayton.
Don’t wait on a backup
Call (775) 552-5179 now.
Carson Valley Septic connects callers with an independent, licensed local septic service provider. Work is performed by that provider, not by this website.
Frequently asked questions
Is a septic backup an emergency?
If sewage is coming into your home or surfacing in the yard, yes. Stop using water and call.
Can I still use my toilet?
Avoid it until the system has been checked. Using water makes a backup worse.
Are you available 24/7?
After-hours availability depends on the local provider. Call (775) 552-5179 and we’ll let you know.
Is it safe to open my septic tank?
No. Leave it to a professional. Tanks hold toxic gases, and lids can collapse.