How Often Should I Pump Out My Septic Tank?
Regular septic tank maintenance is vital to make sure your septic system continues to function properly.
Many septic tank owners believe that if they aren’t experiencing issues with their septic system, they
don’t need to pump their septic tank. Unfortunately this is a serious and sometimes costly misconception.
During normal use, solid materials settle to the bottom of the tank, forming a layer of sludge. Grease
and lightweight materials float to the surface of the septic tank as scum.
Properly designed and installed septic systems typically have enough space for 3 to 5 years of sludge
accumulation. When sludge levels increase beyond the safe point, sewage has less time to settle properly
before leaving the septic tank. As the sludge level rises, more solid waste escapes into the drain
field causing it to clog. Eventually the system cannot process liquid at the rate at which it enters
the tank and the plumbing will “back up”. This can push untreated wastewater to the soil surface and
create an unsanitary mess inside the home.
To determine your recommended pumping septic tank pumping interval, it is important understand the
design of your system and basic usage levels. Below are questions that you should be able to answer
to help determine your optimal pumping schedule:
- What is the size of your tank?
- How many people use the system?
- o you use a garbage disposal?
- What kind of soil do you have - good drainage or poor?
- How old is the system?
Unfortunately, no septic tank system will last forever. But a schedule of preventative maintenance
(regular inspections and pumping) will maximize the life of your septic system. Call Hulsey Environmental
Services to set up an inspection of your septic tank today!
Back to
Plumbing Resources.
