How Septic Systems Work – If your house has a septic system, it immediately goes to work anytime a toilet is flushed, a shower is turned on, or a washing machine or dishwasher finishes up a load. The waste from your drains collects together in one pipe (called an inlet pipe) and enters the septic system through the top of the septic tank.
As the amount of waste builds up, it is allowed to flow back out of the tank through an exit pipe, which is also located on the other side of the top of the tank. While it sits in the septic tank, solid waste is prevented from flowing into the drain field by an outlet tee and a filter until it is and broken down by naturally occurring bacteria and becomes small enough to flow through the outlet pipe and into the drain field (also called a leach field), along with the liquid waste. If you have a mound system (one where the drain field is up higher than the septic tank), the liquid first flows into a pump chamber and then into the drain field. From the drain field, the water is distributed through a set of pipes with holes in them into your yard, becoming fertilizer for your grass and plants.
Some items are much harder (or even impossible) for the septic tank to break down, and that’s why you should keep them out of your drains, including fat & grease, hazardous chemicals, feminine hygiene products, cigarettes, paper towels, baby wipes (even if they say they’re flushable), chopped up or stringy food, kitty litter, coffee grounds, medications, and paint. If these items make their way into your septic tank and cause a clog, it could cause the need for septic tank pumping or even replacement.
At Lee Kirk & Sons Septic in Lakeland, Florida, we are fully licensed for septic tank installation, septic tank cleaning, septic tank pumping, drain field repair, and more.
Professional and honest.
“They are definitely professional and honest. They came to empty my septic tank the same day that I called them. The price is fair and reasonable. I would definitely recommend them to anyone who needs this type of service. Thank you, Lee Kirk & Sons Septic, for the work that you've done.”
★★★★★ -Denise D.
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Services We Offer
Residential Septic Services
The residential septic services we offer include pump repairs & replacement, septic tank installation, and septic tank pumping.
Septic Tank Pumping
With a little maintenance, such as septic tank pumping, your system can work well for years to come.
Drain Field Repair
Even if you are being cautious in your water usage, you might still require drain field repair.
Contact Us to Learn More About Our Septic Services
We’re here to take care of your septic needs, no matter how big or small.
Your Questions About How Septic Systems Work Answered
Septic systems are relatively simple systems in theory, and they’re an effective way to treat wastewater when your home isn’t connected to the municipal sewer system. We’ve answered a few questions about septic systems and how they work down below.
What parts is a septic system made up of?
All septic systems are made up of a septic tank and a drain field. Depending on elevation, some septic systems may also have a lift station to pump wastewater up to a higher level.
Is there any maintenance that needs to be done on a septic system?
Yes! For the most part, septic systems don’t need a ton of maintenance, but you should plan on getting your tank pumped out every few years. How often you need to get your tank pumped depends on your house’s water usage, the number of people living in your house, and the size of the tank.
How long do septic systems last?
Some septic systems can last up to 30 years with proper care and maintenance. If your septic system is several decades old and you’re starting to have problems with it, you may want to consider a replacement.
What can I do to protect my septic system?
We suggest spacing out your water usage throughout the day, pumping your tank regularly, and keeping liquids, grease, fats, and anything else but water, human waste, and toilet paper out of your pipes.
How can you help with my septic system?
We can provide repairs when something goes wrong and pump your tank when the time arrives. We can also replace your system if you need a new one.
Why Lee Kirk & Sons Septic?
When it comes to keeping your septic system in great shape, our team at Lee Kirk & Sons Septic is here to help. As septic professionals who serve the Lakeland, Florida area, we’re known for the quality of our services, which include septic tank pumping, septic tank installation, drain field repair, and more, as well as our ability to tackle the toughest jobs.
See what some of our satisfied clients are saying about our septic services.
We have used these guys for years for our septic needs. We had a very old system and they have always done a great job taking care of it and helping us get as much life out of it as possible. They have never tried to sell us something we didn't need, like some other companies do. Recently, our drainfield finally reached the end of its life and needed to be replaced. They did a fantastic job!!! Not only are they extremely honest, but their prices are very reasonable and affordable. They are always a pleasure to work with and we know whatever issues pop up we can trust them.
Jennifer H
13:39 03 Feb 24
This company is very professional and has got a family atmosphere great to work in every way they can so don’t just stand their and reading reviews just pick up the phone and give them a call and you will see how professional they are great company kudos to Lee kirk and sons
Jon Young
14:56 12 Dec 23
We appreciate you guys so much! Dustin is very knowledgable & helped us troubleshoot some problems with our septic. Very thankful that we called Lee Kirk & Sons for a second opinion.
Emily Ledford
18:09 28 Nov 23
Thank you for responding so fast the other day! I called a few companies and they kinda blew me off and you were here as planned. Great Job 🙏
CONNIE SOVIL
22:55 26 Oct 23
Very impressed!! money well spentTop line ,clean equipmentDressed as a team/on timeIn and out 45 minutes tops.Great job will tell my neighbors.
Howard Whitener jr
15:03 02 Jul 23
Honest, knowledgable, family owned, lots of experience, responsible. In April 2023 Lee Kirk and Sons installed new drainfield including permits in fenced yard with pool. Despite confined space, Mike Kirk used equipment effectively and covered and raked yard after inspection. Yard has recovered to 90% in six weeks. Septic system works like new and work is warranted. Good value. I highly reccommend. One day delay in start date due to unexpected delay on previous jobsite. Thanks Mike!
Terry Riffe
22:37 19 Jun 23
Came out quick and took care of the issue at a fair price. Would definitely use again.
leo raymond
20:39 24 Jan 23
Absolutely,the best experience I've had with a septic company.The most courteous, professional guys ever. HighlyRecommend !!!
jimmy rogers
15:13 20 Sep 22
Very good service and price. Called them and had same day service, the guys where very professional and educational. Thanks again.
Janemarie Rodriguez
11:36 23 Apr 22
We called to have our septic tank drained and they came out in less then a half hour after talking to them. They were friendly and professional with a price that was very reasonable. I absolutely would recommended them
War_Cookie01
00:33 02 Feb 22
Replaced a 31yr old drainfield.. Very pleased w/Lee and son..We will definitely refer them to others. Professional, on time, answered all my questions and even spread grass seed!
Jill Hazelbaker
20:18 21 Jan 22
Extremely polite. Quick, efficient, down to earth, just good people !!! Amazing service. Will always recommend & our first choice for any septic service we need.
R H
18:30 20 Jan 22
Lee Kirk & Sons, septic service and pump, was top notch! I will recommend there service to family and friends.
Randal Velasco
19:55 22 Sep 21
They are definitely professional and honest. They came to empty my septic tank the same day that I call them. The price is fair and reasonable. I would definitely recommend them to anyone who needs this type of service. Thank you Lee Kirk and sons for the work that you've done.
Denise DiPilato
22:22 08 Jun 21
Dustin was on time, friendly & easy to deal with..You wont find a better price in town either. I have dealt with a few other companies in the past that had good reviews but Lee Kirk & Sons will be my go to company to call if I ever need anything septic wise again.
Troy Richard
18:36 16 Apr 21
Wonderful honest family business. Fast response professional would definitely use again
Kimmie Kimmie
16:21 17 Feb 21
I can't say enough how wonderful their service was in replacing our 41 year-old drain field. From the first time Mike (third generation owner) gave us the quote--a very reasonable price at that--to the time of install, he was a gentleman, funny, honest, & professional. I signed Mike a check to have the permit be obtained and he took care of that process without fail. We scheduled for the install midweek. He and his team came out & completed the removal of the old system and installation of the new system in just a few hours! A few days later, the inspector came out and we passed with with flying colors. Mike came back out to cover up the trenches, rake the soil flat and applied a layer of grass seed. My wife and I have been stressed for months with this whole draining ordeal and Mike's service remedied it with ease. Thank you for the outstanding customer service, pricing, and workmanship! If you need septic work done, I highly recommend getting a second or third quote and giving Lee Kirk & Sons a call--you won't regret it =) May God continue to bless you, your family, and your business for years to come.
Hieu Nguyen
13:01 08 Feb 21
Our septic tank was overflowing. I called for help on a Saturday and they came out promptly and took care of everything in a timely and professional manner. I am a previous customer and highly recommend Lee Kirk and Sons.
William Christie
22:10 16 Jan 21
We had our septic pumped and filter cleaned. Very professional and helpful in explaining and answering questions. Great service. Even though there were complications with irrigation being in the way of the septic covers he was very cautious and attentive to make sure they did not get damaged. Would definitely recommend and will be a returning customer.
nicolas somarriba
16:59 11 Dec 20
Lee Kirk & Sons are the best in the business. Mike has worked for our family & we can't thank them enough.
Stephen LaLonde
15:26 02 Jun 20
Our septic tank was over flowing. They sent someone out to my house in less then an hour after I talked to them, on a Saturday! I wish I caught the guys name so I could give him a shout out, but I’m horrible at names. He was very professional and fast working.I’m saving their number and I would definitely recommend them. Thanks guys!
Caffeinated Logic
00:34 27 Jan 20
Great job and very professional service. They always go the extra mile.. all are team players.. special thanks to Dustin for getting us back on track in a timely manner..
Dave Arrington
15:45 03 Aug 19
Kirk came by my place Christmas Eve and took care of my problem awesome man thanks service you can count on nice to see that today not many people will do that anymore thanks LeeGary Cerny
Gary Cerny
08:38 25 Dec 18
These guys are my heroes! We rent our house, and from time to time (at least every 6 months) the lines get clogged with roots. He has identified the problem, but the landlord.....It is an emergency when all of the sudden you can't even flush your toilets, and stuff is backing up in the tubs. What do you do?? If this problem isn't fixed straight away you would have to vacate just to use the bathroom! I call them, and they come same day every time... It takes them just a few minutes and every thing is running smoothly. The price is great in my opinion. One time my landlord called a different company out......they spent hours poking and prodding (while I was on the phone with the owners etc trying to give them something to go on) and couldn't even find access. Eventually they left. It was a nightmare.Called Lee Kirk and Sons. Bam. Done. 5 minutes.
Jennifer Lyn
16:56 09 Apr 18
Amazing service, incredible value. They have been good to my family for decades!
John Bendever, Jr.
19:34 03 Sep 17
Called to get price for having my septic pumped. He gave a price & said he could come do it the next day between 3pm & 3:30pm. They got here on time, actually about 10 minutes early. They were way better & cheaper than the 1st company that we had pump for us. They definitely have repeat customers with us! Hopefully we don't have to see you guys for another 5 years though! 😉
Melissa Burbank
03:46 22 Feb 17
Had them come out on short notice. They pumped the septic tank and replaced the sump pump. Great job, fast service. Customer for life. Will definitely send them customers. Hats off to them.
jeff grever
20:01 30 Nov 15
Called them in the morning and they were here by the same afternoon and on time. Pumped our tank and the job was done well for under $200.
Terri Yearicks
19:47 14 Jul 15
If you are looking for a reputable company who is very knowledgeable with septic systems, Lee Kirk & Sons is the place to call. Mike Kirk is honest, loyal, and very informative! You will get good work at an affordable price. Do not go with any other company and get the job done right the first time. We purchased our home with septic issues that were to be repaired before closing. The company hired by the seller passed inspection but once we moved in our system back flowed. Mike Kirk came out and told us even though our tank was new the drane field was shot and needed to be replaced. We got a high tech system at an affordable price that works great! Thanks Lee Kirk & Sons 🙂
Alexandria Martinez
15:13 01 Dec 14
Look no further for septic service. He can do it all!! Mike installed my septic system. I received multiple quotes and his was the most fair and he was great to work with. I have recommended him to numerous people who have been completely satisfied.
pjay butler
18:43 08 Jul 14
My parents had sewage backing up into the tubs and had overflowing toilets so they thought the septic tank was full and needed to be pumped. They called around and this service gave the best over the phone quote yesterday afternoon. They were told between 11:00am and 12:00pm today. The truck pulled in the yard ahead of schedule.Upon inspection, it was determined the problem was a clogged line between the house and the septic tank. 45 minutes and $85 later, everything is flowing as it should. Thanks guys.
Jerry McCoy
16:52 17 Jan 13
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Our family-owned and operated business has been serving Polk County since 1959.
Take Care of Your Septic System, So it Can Take Care of You
