Do I have a septic system?

Question

I live in a large city, we are hooked up to city drains and such. So does that mean I definitely do not have a septic tank system? The reason I ask is that we started having problems w/ our washer draining into our tub and toilets. (Tonight was the first time it ever happened but the other night it drained onto the floor of my laundry room, so we know something is clogged somewhere, inbetween these happenings the washer ran fine).

I know we have to call a plummer in the morning, but I was wondering how big of a deal this is going to be.

Answer 1

You don't have a septic tank, only a clogged drain line.  You could probably rent a sewer cleaning machine for $25 plus deposit and run it through your sewer access in the back of the house, and solve the problem.  Good luck and God Bless.

Answer 2

Septic systems are rarely located in large cities and have nothing to do with the problem.  Most likely something is lodged in your pipes. A sewer contractor is your best best in unclogging your pipes. Try Draino first though. An auger is your next step if you want to continue trying it yourself. Worst cases are usually when tree roots invade the sewer pipe outside of the building foundation and cause the backup. Sometimes kids throw stuff down the toilet they shouldn't.

Answer 3

A backup does not indicate a city or septic tank.  Likely you have a block between your fixtures and the line in the street.  You plumber will check a couple of locations to find the problem.  There is no way to know how big its going to be until he finds it.  It could be something that he can just snake out, or he may need to do major digging,

Answer 4

No septic tank,you have a clogged drain line.