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Professional Septic System Services in Scandia, MN
At Smilie's Sewer Service, we combine decades of industry experience with a commitment to proactive customer care. Founded through the merger of respected local sewer service providers, our team brings comprehensive expertise in septic system installation, repair, and maintenance. We specialize in diagnosing complex issues, offering transparent repair solutions, and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Our licensed, bonded, and insured professionals serve residential and commercial clients across the Twin Cities metro area, prioritizing long-term system reliability and customer satisfaction. With 24/7 emergency response capabilities and a focus on sustainable practices, we deliver dependable solutions that protect both property investments and water quality.
Services
Septic Installation Tank Pumping System Repairs Commercial Maintenance Lift Station Service
Highlights and features
  • We offer 24/7 emergency septic service with rapid response times
  • Our team holds combined decades of specialized septic system expertise
  • We provide proactive maintenance programs to prevent system failures
  • We implement environmentally responsible installation and repair methods
  • We maintain full licensing, bonding, and insurance for client protection
Associations and certifications
  • BBB
  • Angie's List
  • MPCA
  • MOWA
What people say
Prompt and impeccable services 5-star operation Tremendous service Fast service Great job
Services
Septic System Installation
We provide complete septic system installation and replacement services for residential and commercial properties. Our process includes design consultation, site evaluation, and code-compliant construction. Our team works with licensed designers to create customized solutions that meet environmental regulations while ensuring long-term functionality. We offer free estimates and on-site consultations to explain system options and maintenance requirements.
Septic Tank Pumping
Regular septic tank pumping prevents system failures and extends equipment lifespan. Our service includes complete tank evacuation, baffled inspection using camera technology, and condition assessment. We maintain detailed service records and offer reminder scheduling to ensure optimal maintenance intervals based on system usage and local regulations.
Septic System Repairs
We diagnose and repair all septic system components including tanks, drain fields, and lift stations. Our services cover baffle replacement, line repair, effluent filter installation, and frozen system thawing. Emergency repairs include 24/7 response with immediate problem assessment and transparent repair cost estimates.
Commercial Septic Services
Our commercial division handles grease trap cleaning, sand trap maintenance, and holding tank pumping for businesses. We offer scheduled maintenance programs with compliance documentation and emergency service plans. Our technicians work with commercial plumbers to ensure code compliance and operational continuity for food service establishments and industrial facilities.
Lift Station Maintenance
We specialize in lift station pump replacement, alarm system repair, and effluent filter maintenance. Our services include system diagnostics, component replacement with code-compliant materials, and confined space entry for underground installations. We offer preventive maintenance plans to ensure uninterrupted wastewater transportation for residential and commercial properties.
People
Jim Vaughan
Owner
With decades of combined industry experience, Jim Vaughan co-owns Smilie's Sewer Service. He oversees daily operations and emergency response coordination, ensuring technical excellence and customer satisfaction across all service offerings.
Keith Valento
Owner
Keith Valento brings extensive septic system expertise to Smilie's Sewer Service. As co-owner, he focuses on system design consultation and quality control, maintaining the company's reputation for reliable installations and code-compliant repairs.
Questions
How often should septic tanks be pumped?
The University of Minnesota recommends pumping every 2-3 years, though frequency depends on tank size, household occupancy, and usage patterns.
What causes septic system alarms to activate?
Lift station alarms typically indicate pump failure, power loss, or high water levels. Immediate inspection is required to prevent system backup.
Do you service commercial grease traps?
Yes, we provide cleaning, repair, and maintenance for commercial grease traps in restaurants and food service establishments across the Twin Cities.
Can tree roots damage septic systems?
Yes, roots can infiltrate pipes and tanks causing blockages. We recommend keeping woody plants at least 25 feet from septic components.
What emergency services are available?
We offer 24/7 emergency response for septic backups and system failures with two dedicated emergency phone lines for immediate assistance.
Do you provide maintenance reminders?
Yes, we maintain service records and send reminders for scheduled pumping and maintenance based on your system's specific requirements.
Reviews (7)
Laurie Marshall
Nov 19, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
Keith and his entire team are professional, efficient, and oh-so-pleasant to work with. Thank you for being our septic company!
Elayne Bleser Neumann
Sep 24, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Punctuality,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
We've been working with Keith for almost 20 years and wouldn't trust our septic system to anyone else. He knows all the quirks about it, knows what to look for, gives us all the options if it needs some additional service or maintenance, and helps us be proactive in keeping our system in good working order. I highly recommend them.
Dave Roeser
Jun 03, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Punctuality,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
They came early.....WOW! Professional and knowledgeable driver/service tech Dave. Knew more about my system than I did. Reported back with helpful information. Filed the city paperwork permit for us. Now that I know they do more than just septic systems, I will be using them more, and for my business too.
Jeff S.
Oct 07, 2020 Report
We've used Smilies for years to service our septic system. Always on time, reasonable cost and good service. Today, the driver noticed we had a new driveway and he figured our another way to access the tanks besides parking on the drive. Clearly didn't have to, but he did. This was going above and beyond by a provider whose service presumably a lot of folks take for granted- but this company doesn't. I highly recommend them.
Pamela Hall
Sep 24, 2020 Report
They were amazing and worked tirelessly to access the proper portal to get rid of the blockage. My home is older and has thin pipes. They were finally able to clear it through the kitchen sink and saved me tons of money by not having to hire a plumber to replace the pipes. Thanks guys!
Tuffys
Aug 23, 2019 Report
Easy to schedule. Promptly arrived on scheduled date. Quick service. We've used Smilie's for several years and and have always been satisfied with the service.
Vincent R.
Aug 14, 2019 Report
Have used Smilies Service for years. Always competent, respectful and friendly. Jim, Angie and Mike are best known to us but entire staff is top notch in every respect. They have our full confidence.