Dairy Queen of Shelbyville
17+
Years Experience
5+
Septic Certifications
#1
Master Septic Installer in Kentucky
16+
Years Experience
5+
Septic Certifications
#1
Septic Installer in Shelbyville
It's Our Mission
It's Our Mission
“At Hartman Septic, it's our mission to lead the septic industry through quality work, advanced certifications, and honest service — providing the very best options for our customers!"
About Us
Hi, I’m Chris Hartman, owner of Hartman Septic...
From a young age, I knew I wanted to operate equipment for a living. In 2005, at just 17 years old, I got my first hands-on experience running a skid steer while helping install a septic system. I was hooked. That moment sparked a passion that led me to start learning everything I could about the septic industry. I began by pumping tanks for a local company in Shelby County, gaining invaluable experience along the way.
In 2012, I took a leap of faith, attended heavy equipment school in Florida, and later that year, launched my own business. I started small—renting equipment and taking on any job I could. As my reputation grew, so did my company. I hired a dedicated team, invested in my own equipment, and became a trusted name in the community.
Over the years, my expertise in septic systems grew, and my dedication to bettering this industry quickly placed Hartman Septic as the go-to professional for advanced installations. Other installers began referring complex jobs my way, and I enjoyed taking on the role of mentor, helping others in the industry. What truly sets Hartman Septic apart is our commitment to innovation—bringing the latest advancements to our field to better serve our customers.
In 2024, we made the strategic decision to discontinue our excavation division, allowing us to focus entirely on what we do best—providing top-tier, full-service septic solutions. Today, Hartman Septic is known for our professionalism, cutting-edge techniques, and unwavering dedication to customer service. We don’t just install and maintain septic systems—we provide tailored solutions that stand the test of time.
At Hartman Septic, we’re not just in the business of septic systems. We’re in the business of serving our community with honesty, integrity, and the latest innovations in the industry.
Our Certifications
We provide the latest septic innovations to deliver tailor-made solutions for every job.
American Perc-Rite Drip Dispersal Certified
Kentucky's 1st Master Septic Installer
Fuji Clean USA Treatment Certified
Heavy Equipment Operator Certified
Advanced Enviro-Septic Certified
Advanced Septic Installer
Companies we've worked with...
Trey McKnight
From the consultation meeting with Hartman Septic to the completion of the job, communication, transparency, cost of service were all top notch! I already have plans in place to work with this company in the near future when adding a structure to my property that requires their expertise. Awesome work fellas! I would recommend this company to every person who needs excavation and/or septic work done.
Paul
They did a great job and got it done quickly. We've been on the sewer system for years. I thought the septic tank was filled in but wasn't. The tree service guys were the ones to discover the truth when their crane poked a whole in it. Hartman Septic and Excavating was great, we had so much on our plate already as alzheimer's caregivers for my mother. We can't even tell they were ever here to look at the yard now. Thank you so much.
Jason Ollis
Over the years, I have had several questions concerning my property and being new to having a septic system. I was referred to Chris Hartman and he has always been helpful will all of my particular concerns. More recently, I have worked with his staff and my experience has been the same. Honest and straightforward…exactly what I am always looking for.
John Young
Bull valve broke when I was changing fields. Called Hartman's and said they would be by that day. When he arrived and looked at my situation, he knew exactly what the was needed. He described what how he would replace the valve and had the part on his truck. Fixed it on the spot in less than thirty minutes. His rates were very reasonable. Very friendly, would highly recommend and would be the first person I call if I have septic problems again.
William Stewart
I do excavation work myself from time to time and when I come across a bigger project that I can’t handle myself, I have 2 choices: 1. Attempt the job myself which I have learned part way through, I should have called HARTMAN’S to begin with, or 2. Call Hartman’s and have them do the job.
EVERY TIME I have called them for their services, they answer, schedule the job, show up at that time, and do the job way better than I could have myself. Professional crews show up, get the job done, and show me time and time again why they are the best in the business!
Chow Lee
I needed septic system repair or replacement and hired Hartman after getting several estimates. They were professional every step of the way and got the repairs done as quickly as possible.
Chris Hartman worked with the county health guy to get an approved repair. If you need septic help, definitely give Hartman a call.
How often should I get my septic tank pumped?
Most septic tanks should be pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on the tank size and number of people living in the home. Larger households or smaller tanks may need more frequent service. Regular pumping prevents buildup of solids that can overflow into the drain field and cause system failure.
Tip: Don’t wait for signs of trouble! Routine maintenance is much cheaper than system repairs or replacements.
What are signs that my septic system is failing?
Common warning signs include:
- Slow draining sinks or toilets
- Gurgling sounds in your plumbing
- Strong odors in the yard or around drains
- Excessive, Lush, dark green grass over the drain field
- Standing water or soggy areas in your yard
If you notice any of these, it’s important to have your system inspected immediately to avoid costly damage.
The grass over my lateral lines is brown, what does that mean?
Brown or dry grass over your lateral lines is usually a good sign! It means your drain field is doing its job, filtering wastewater underground without oversaturating the soil above. A healthy drain field is designed to disperse water slowly and evenly, not keep the surface wet.
But when you notice brown grass with any of the following, it may be time to schedule an inspection:
- You have slow draining sinks, gurgling toilets, or backups happening in your home
- You see standing water in other areas of your septic system
- There is green grass over some lateral lines but not others
I see water around my lateral lines. What does this mean?
Standing water or soggy ground around your lateral lines is a red flag that your system may be failing. This usually means the drain field is no longer able to absorb and filter wastewater properly. Common causes include:
- System overload from too much water use
- Clogged or damaged lateral lines
- A full or unpumped septic tank
- Poor soil absorption or compacted soil
Take action quickly! Continued use of a failing system can lead to contamination, bad odors, and costly repairs. Give us a call for a septic consultation!