Septic Tank Services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (15 Top-Rated Companies)
Fort Lauderdale is home to thousands of properties that rely on septic systems for wastewater management. Whether you need routine pumping, emergency repair, or a complete system installation, finding a reliable local provider is essential for protecting your property and the environment. We've researched and compiled the 15 top-rated septic tank service companies in Fort Lauderdale, Floridato help you make an informed decision.
All companies listed below have been verified and include ratings, reviews, contact information, and service details. We recommend getting quotes from at least 2-3 providers before making your choice. Use the table of contents below to jump to any company, or scroll through to compare all your options.
π Table of Contents
- 1. Champion Septic Tank - Grease Trap Storm Drain Lift Station β β 5 (844 reviews)
- 2. Eco Pump Services β β 5 (160 reviews)
- 3. Jimmy Mack Drainfields β β 5 (10 reviews)
- 4. 4 Star Plumbing Services β β 4.9 (1342 reviews)
- 5. On My Way Septic Grease Trap Storm Drains Lift Station β β 4.9 (838 reviews)
- 6. Banyan Environmental Group Inc β β 4.9 (16 reviews)
- 7. A to Z Statewide Plumbing Inc. β β 4.8 (673 reviews)
- 8. Tank Depot of Pompano Beach, Florida β β 4.8 (235 reviews)
- 9. All City Septic β β 4.6 (327 reviews)
- 10. All City Septic β β 4.6 (125 reviews)
- 11. Jerry's Septic Tank Services β β 4.6 (59 reviews)
- 12. Marine Waste Pumping β β 4.6 (16 reviews)
- 13. Johnson Environmental Services β β 4.5 (60 reviews)
- 14. Accurate Septic Services Inc. β β 4.1 (51 reviews)
- 15. Nu-Black Septic Tank Co β β 3.9 (11 reviews)
1. Champion Septic Tank - Grease Trap Storm Drain Lift Station
π 4000 Hollywood Blvd suite 555-s, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 801-8850
π www.championseptictank.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Champion Septic Tank - Grease Trap Storm Drain Lift Station provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Champion Septic Tank - Grease Trap Storm Drain Lift Station has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 844 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI had an excellent experience with Champion Septic Tank and highly recommend them for anyone needing professional septic services. They completed a full drain field installation and drain field replacement at my property in Hollywood, Florida, and the entire process was smooth, fast, and very well organized. Due to how satisfied I was with their work, I hired them again for another septic drain field installation at one of my homes in Homestead, Florida, and once again the results were outstanding. Their team is knowledgeable, efficient, and clearly experienced in all aspects of septic systems. I also know that Champion Septic Tank is extremely strong in North Miami, Florida, where they are well known for septic tank cleaning, septic tank pumping, and routine septic maintenance. They use modern equipment, work efficiently, and offer very fair pricing compared to other septic companies in the area. Overall, Champion Septic Tank is a reliable, professional, and trustworthy company for drain field installation, drain field replacement, and any septic tank service in South Florida.β β Jacqueline Alonso, βββββ
βI had an excellent experience with Champion Septic Tank. From the first call to the completion of the job, everything was handled professionally and efficiently. The team clearly knows what theyβre doing and took the time to explain the condition of my system before starting the work. They helped me with septic tank cleaning and pumping, and later handled a drain field installation that required careful planning. The work was done cleanly, on schedule, and without any surprises. You can tell they have real experience with septic systems, especially in older properties. What I appreciated most was their honesty and attention to detail. They didnβt try to upsell unnecessary services and made sure everything was working properly before leaving. The crew was respectful, well-equipped, and very knowledgeable. If youβre looking for a reliable septic company in Hollywood, Champion Septic Tank is a solid choice. I would absolutely use them again and recommend them to anyone needing septic service done the right way.β β Yoandy Blanco, βββββ
2. Eco Pump Services
π 15757 Pines Blvd Suite 315, Pembroke Pines, FL 33027, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (305) 557-2791
π ecopumpservices.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 6:00β―AMβββ5:00β―PM
Eco Pump Services provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Eco Pump Services has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 160 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βExcellent service provider! Eco Pump is trustworthy, provides fast and efficient service! Wonderful customer service. I've been a customer for 1.5 years and they are always impeccable.β β jose roberto p. dantas filho, βββββ
βItβs been five times that I use this company. Heβs unbelievable. You just pick up the phone and they come running and the service and the cleanup. I could tell you that Iβm overwhelmed with the service. Iβve never seen a company this good I really recommend him to anybody whoβs looking for somebody who gives a good price. Whoβs on the ball and who does over and above would anybody would expect I just donβt know how to put it into words, but all I could say is this guy is not a five star. Heβs a six star company over the top. The best service Iβve ever had and the price is just unbelievable. Heβs cheaper than anybody I was ever contacting. I truly recommend him. Sorry let me correct myself. Heβs not a six star. Heβs a 10 star, but thereβs not enough Stars to put on this..β β marco revah, βββββ
3. Jimmy Mack Drainfields
π 3960 SW 12th Ct, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 583-5501
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 8:00β―AMβββ7:00β―PM
Jimmy Mack Drainfields provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Jimmy Mack Drainfields has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 10 customer reviews and a 5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βJimmy Mack showed up on time. Gave me a quote faster than anyone. His pricing was competitive. He does great work and is a HARD worker. Finished the job with no surprises. Iβm very happy with him and his company. 5 stars from me!!!! Thanks Jimmy!β β Francis Brophy, βββββ
βPumped our septic tank. Very professional. Gave very thorough and patient explanations to questions, and provided a lot of information that was extremely useful, but we wouldn't have known to ask for. Provided excellent advice on maintenance including timing and type of bacterial treatment. Could not be more satisfied or happier!β β Walt C, βββββ
4. 4 Star Plumbing Services
π 3037 NW 60th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 776-9888
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
4 Star Plumbing Services provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. 4 Star Plumbing Services has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 1342 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI feel the price was very high! To change a pipe!! ,especially if I have had a hardship,due to a surgery. I understand it's a business, but I most likely will not use this company again. Service tech was good. I wouldn't recommend them..β β Diana Kullander, β
βI am so happy with 4 Star Plumbing Services! They gave me a great price on new water heater tank for my home. Carlos, the technician did a wonderful job installing the new tank and we have hot water again! I highly recommend them for all your plumbing needs. Brenda was amazing at coordinating this repair and getting in done in a timely manner as well.β β Ron Goldsmith, βββββ
5. On My Way Septic Grease Trap Storm Drains Lift Station
π 2021 N 62nd Ave, Hollywood, FL 33024, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (786) 252-4029
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
On My Way Septic Grease Trap Storm Drains Lift Station provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. On My Way Septic Grease Trap Storm Drains Lift Station has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 838 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βOn My Way Septic Tank Services were AMAZING. I called for a septic cleaning and they came right away. They were very professional and knowledgeable about the work they do. They came in while I was at work. The communication was consistent and sent me pictures of the work done. I was extremely impressed with their work. They located the tank, opened it up, and installed the point of access. (Green Lid) I had no idea how this worked but they explained everything and I felt very confident about the quality of their service. 100% recommend (Hollywood area)β β Diana Paez, βββββ
βI had a great experience with On My Way Septic cleaning service! Their prices were very reasonable, and they were fast, reliable, and super accommodating with my schedule. The team was very friendly, professional, and took the time to explain everything clearly. I highly recommend!β β Stephanie Larios, βββββ
6. Banyan Environmental Group Inc
π 1550 NW 24th Ave, Pompano Beach, FL 33069, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 475-9946
π www.banyanenvironmental.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Banyan Environmental Group Inc provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Banyan Environmental Group Inc has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 16 customer reviews and a 4.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βJust had them come out, Daniel, the owner. Wow, I was impressed with the professionalism of this company. His employees, Jose and angel. Incredible!! They just got A customer for life they where honest. Respectful and the best part they came early. Hate it When they give you a time frame and show up 2 hours later. 100% will recommend them to everybody. I know.β β joshua c, βββββ
β5 Stars!!! We recently used Banyan Environmental Group to locate and pump our septic system, and I couldnβt be more impressed. From the first call to schedule the appointment to the completion of the service, their team was professional, knowledgeable, and friendly! The technician arrived on time, explained the process clearly, and went above and beyond to ensure everything was working perfectly. They also provided helpful tips on how to maintain the system moving forward, which I really appreciated. Pricing was fair and transparent, with no hidden fees. If youβre looking for reliable and honest septic services, I highly recommend Banyan!β β Ryan Frederick, βββββ
7. A to Z Statewide Plumbing Inc.
π 2215 SW 58th Terrace, West Park, FL 33023, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 981-2133
π www.atozstatewideplumbing.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
A to Z Statewide Plumbing Inc. provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A to Z Statewide Plumbing Inc. has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 673 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βFirst of all if I ever have to call you guys again for anything it better be Donnell cause he is absolutely the best technician Iβve ever met seen or observed. This man is the most polite, compassionate, kind technician Iβve ever met in my life. He explains everything to you in detail, so you understand exactly what needs to be done. He doesnβt take his job lightly. He wants to make sure you have everything you need and has your best interest in mind. Thank you for sending him to me. I appreciate him. Heβs a very kind man and It has excellent customer service. Thank you again.β β Faye Anastasia, βββββ
βDonnell was very professional. He was very helpful in an emergency service event and was incredibly thorough. He was also very communicative and patient with me and my team. He was kind and gracious when the job took a bit more than we all initially anticipated. Would highly recommend and very grateful.β β Jennifer Austin, βββββ
8. Tank Depot of Pompano Beach, Florida
π 1627 S Dixie Hwy, Pompano Beach, FL 33060, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (754) 254-3199
π www.tank-depot.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 8:00β―AMβββ5:00β―PM
Tank Depot of Pompano Beach, Florida provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Tank Depot of Pompano Beach, Florida has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 235 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI recently bought a water tank from this business to send to my country, and I was extremely impressed with the service. The owner was very professional and clearly knowledgeable about all types of water tanks and chemicals. He took the time to explain everything I needed to know and made the buying process easy and comfortable. The customer service here is excellentβfriendly, honest, and helpful. I highly recommend this store to anyone looking for quality products and great service.β β Olga Suarez, βββββ
βMatt was very helpful in assisting me to get the right tank for the right job. He then helped me outfit the tank with the correct fittings. Then he installed the fittings where I needed them and gave me good advice about the fittings and other handy bits of advice. Thank you!β β Edwards Sprinklers, βββββ
9. All City Septic
π 10501 S Camelot Cir, Davie, FL 33328, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (888) 903-7867
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
All City Septic provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. All City Septic has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 327 customer reviews and a 4.6-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI would not recommend this company to anyone. They were quick to reply with an estimate for a drain field replacement and very insistent on getting the job. Eventually, we chose them and paid immediately the 50% deposit. According to them replacement would be completed in 6β8 weeks, however after multiple excuses it ended up taking over 5 months. Not only did they make the entire process incredibly irritating, but in doing so, they damaged my fence. They said they would obtain quotes, but again, after many excuses they did not do anything, I provided them with the name of a company for them to get a quote. They did nothing. I decided to provide them with an actual estimate at which point they simply stopped answering my calls altogether. I do not have space here to tell you about the many other matters that took place. This was an extremely frustrating and unprofessional experience. If you are considering this company, I strongly suggest looking elsewhere.β β Edith Restrepo, β
βThey were awesome! Quick and on time , they told us prices from the beginning and didnβt charge for locating our septic tank as other companies do (aprox 200$) . I recommend this company 100% . Fair prices , thanks again guys !β β valentina perez, βββββ
10. All City Septic
π 831 NW 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (888) 903-7867
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
All City Septic provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. All City Septic has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 125 customer reviews and a 4.6-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βRamiro was very professional, knowledgeable and quick to answer calls/questions. Jesus the tech did a great job for septic pump out. I highly recommend All City Septic for any of your septic service needs. *Update 1/30/26...Ramiro again was very helpful for a pump out, able to do same day and answering questions about septic issues. Great company!β β Jesse Fisher, βββββ
βJohnβs plumbing youβ¦.Did great! Our first septic cleaning of this house so we had no idea where the cover was. The technician had to dig around a bit. I felt bad for him but he did not complain just dug for a while found it and drained it. All in all very good experience.β β Nanette Cross, βββββ
11. Jerry's Septic Tank Services
π 4800 SW 64th Ave #106, Davie, FL 33314, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 689-7224
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Closed β Hours not available
Jerry's Septic Tank Services provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Jerry's Septic Tank Services has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 59 customer reviews and a 4.6-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI donβt know where to begin with the priceless job This company did. Starting from the first call to Melisa , then the owner Jerry, his sons and all the way to Anthony I am speechless. They have a passion for their work and more than that the customers satisfaction is a top priority to them. I am so blessed to have call them for this job that seemed like a disaster until you see the finish product. I am so grateful for the outstanding job they did. Their price is great. Donβt shop around call Jerryβs first. I highly recommend them to everyone. Thankfulness falls short for this company. ππππβ β angel C, βββββ
βFrom the first phone call with Melissa (who changed the appointment time by three hours to accommodate me!) through the entire service performed by Anthony, I couldnβt be happier or more satisfied. This company lives up to every one of its exceptional reviews. Anthony was punctual, thorough, honest, helpful, and personable, bringing all good news. I only needed to have the septic tank pumped out. What more could you ask for? Fully recommend!β β Tracy Tenner, βββββ
12. Marine Waste Pumping
π 501 SE 2nd St #821, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 406-6680
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β Open 24 hours
Marine Waste Pumping provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Marine Waste Pumping has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 16 customer reviews and a 4.6-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βChris was an awesome guy. Super easy to deal with. I called him 3 months ahead of time to plan this out and he was super helpful. Kept me updated on times and a schedule and stuck to it. Great service and a better man. 10/10β β payton johnson, βββββ
βFor us...Chris did not follow through. Responses to texts from Chris were challenging. We had to send a few texts over a few days before Chris finally responded. Then texted...would arrive between such and such time on a particular day. We waited...and waited. Never showed up and never contacted us about any delay or reason for not showing up per the time HE said HE would. No idea what happened or why he never responded. Some of you have posted positive feedback and great for you. Not for us. Never met the guy...we needed his services but he never followed through.β β Benica Menica, ββ
13. Johnson Environmental Services
π 4600 Powerline Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 776-5931
π www.johnsones.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 8:00β―AMβββ4:00β―PM
Johnson Environmental Services provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Johnson Environmental Services has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 60 customer reviews and a 4.5-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βJohnson Environmental Service provided outstanding service! They were professional, and went above and beyond to address our plumbing needs. A great company that Iβll definitely be using again in the future for any plumbing work. Highly recommend!β β Tatiana Nogueira, βββββ
βHad a great experience with Johnson. Their pricing was reasonable and my issues were taken care of the same day. Andrew the owner was very responsive and I would be happy recommending them to everybody I know.β β Evan Greenfield, βββββ
14. Accurate Septic Services Inc.
π 4120 Selvitz Rd, Fort Pierce, FL 34981, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (772) 489-4411
π www.accuratesepticservicesinc.com
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Open β 8:00β―AMβββ4:00β―PM
Accurate Septic Services Inc. provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Accurate Septic Services Inc. has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 51 customer reviews and a 4.1-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI used this company in late June/early July of 2023 after we bought a home in Port St. Lucie, they came out and opened only one of the tanks and didnβt inform us that there were two tanks that needed to be flushed out, resulting in a septic tank back up in our home not even 9 months after cleaning it the first time. Had another company come out to diagnose the issue today and it turns out that we paid full price to only get half the work done the first time. The filter which is supposed to be cleaned yearly looked like it hadnβt been cleaned ever!! Beyond pissed off that Iβve now had to pay double when it couldβve been done correctly the first time. Ridiculous!β β Sierra Phelps, β
β*****5 Stars - Excellent Service!** I had the pleasure of working with Accurate Septic today as they converted my septic tank to the city sewer system. The entire process was smooth and professional from start to finish. Tavo, the supervisor, ensured everything went according to plan, and his crewβNery, Isahi, and Germanβwere hardworking and efficient. They completed the job with great attention to detail, leaving the site clean and well-maintained. I'm extremely satisfied with their work and would highly recommend Accurate Septic for any septic or sewer needs!β β Sam Rahal, βββββ
15. Nu-Black Septic Tank Co
π 27 NW 4th Ave, Dania Beach, FL 33004, USA, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
π (954) 927-4090
πΊοΈ Get Directions
π Hours: Closed β Hours not available
Nu-Black Septic Tank Co provides professional septic services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Nu-Black Septic Tank Co has earned a reputation for quality service in the Fort Lauderdale area, with 11 customer reviews and a 3.9-star rating. They serve residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Services Offered: Septic Services
What Customers Say:
βI picked up a house in foreclosure that it turned out had not been hooked up to the City sewer. Nu-Black took care of the permitting and the work quickly and efficiently. I really didnt have to do anything other than go out to verify that the work was finished and cut them a check. Highly recommended.β β Alexander Johnson, βββββ
βThis company connected us to city drain system and removed septic tank. Recently had back up issues and a professional plumber indicated there were issues with the drain from the house to the lateral connection at the street. I called to have them come inspect the line the installed but refused to check it an claimed it was a drain issue under the house without even checking,. I now have to pay for a replacement of the line they installed that broke at one of the connections.β β Valerie Mulligan, β
How to Choose a Septic Service Provider in Fort Lauderdale
Selecting the right septic service company is crucial for maintaining your system and protecting your investment. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a provider in Fort Lauderdale, Florida:
- Check licensing and insurance: Verify the company holds valid state and local licenses and carries liability insurance.
- Read reviews: Look for consistent positive feedback about quality of work, punctuality, and professionalism.
- Get multiple quotes: Compare prices from at least 2-3 companies. Be wary of quotes significantly lower than average.
- Ask about experience: Choose companies with experience in your type of system (conventional, aerobic, mound, etc.).
- Verify services offered: Ensure they provide the specific service you need (pumping, repair, inspection, installation).
- Check response time: For emergencies, ask about availability and response times.
Taking time to research providers now can save you money and headaches later. A quality septic company will provide honest assessments, fair pricing, and reliable service.
Average Septic Service Costs in Florida
Understanding typical costs helps you budget for septic services and recognize fair pricing. Here are average costs for common septic services in Florida:
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Septic Pumping | $300 β $600 |
| Septic Inspection | $100 β $250 |
| Septic Tank Installation | $3,000 β $10,000 |
| Septic Repair | $500 β $3,000 |
| Drain Field Repair/Replacement | $2,000 β $10,000 |
*Costs vary based on tank size, accessibility, system type, and specific conditions. Always get written quotes before work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I pump my septic tank?
Most septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on household size, tank capacity, and water usage. A family of four with a 1,000-gallon tank typically needs pumping every 3 years. Regular pumping prevents solids from entering the drain field and extends your system's lifespan.
How much does septic pumping cost in Fort Lauderdale?
Septic pumping in Fort Lauderdale, Florida typically costs between $300 and $600, depending on tank size (750-1,500 gallons), accessibility, and the service provider. Request quotes from multiple companies listed above for the best price.
What are signs my septic system needs repair?
Warning signs include: slow drains throughout the house, sewage odors near the tank or drain field, standing water or soggy spots in the yard, gurgling sounds in pipes, unusually lush grass over the drain field, and sewage backing up into the home. If you notice any of these, contact a professional immediately.
Do I need a permit for septic installation in Florida?
Yes, Florida requires permits for new septic system installations and most major repairs. Permits ensure systems meet health and environmental standards. Your septic installer will typically handle the permit process, but fees are usually $200-$1,000 depending on your location.
How long does a septic system last?
A well-maintained septic system can last 25-40 years or more. Concrete tanks last the longest (40+ years), while steel tanks may only last 15-20 years before rusting. The drain field typically lasts 20-30 years. Regular pumping, proper use, and prompt repairs are key to maximizing your system's lifespan.
What is the difference between a septic tank and sewer?
A septic system is a private, on-site wastewater treatment system owned and maintained by the homeowner. A sewer system connects your home to a municipal treatment plant that processes wastewater from the entire community. Septic systems require regular pumping (every 3-5 years), while sewer systems charge monthly fees for centralized treatment.