I have a 1 compartment 1000 gallon tank in a home I've recently purchased and admittedly am a newbie when it comes to septic systems. I called a company to look at the tank and pump if necessary, and they confirmed the solids are around 40%. They said they noticed some water in the drain field, but I feel that is to be expected since it's been raining every other day for over a month and a lake is literally over 50 ft away so the ground is never bone dry. I expected the system just needed to be pumped since there have been no issues with plumbing in the house, but then they tacked on other things that they claim needed to be done. Pumping the tank would cost around $400, but they highly suggested "back pumping" which brought the price to $2000. After scratching my head at the cost, they called their manager and was able to bring the cost down to $1500. Not sure it was necessary and wanting to do some research on back pumping, I asked if they could just pump the tank for now, but then they refused to pump without doing the back pumping even though the system was not failing nor showing signs of failing when I asked them. They claimed they could lose their certification if they did not do the whole procedure. My questions are: [list] [*]What situations warrant back pumping and is it really beneficial in this situation? I've read in some situations back pumping can do more harm than good. [*]Are they just trying to maximize profits before taking a job or do they have to follow certain procedures to keep their certification? [/list]

I have heard/read about fixing clogged seepage tank by aereating and turning tank into aerobic bacteria or something like that. There many aereator s on the market, including aero stream for like $1500. Anyone have opinions or experience on these? Any suggestions, ideas, comments appreciated.