Most homeowners realize that septic pumping helps increase the lifespan of their septic systems. What people don't know is how often they should do it. Of course, there is a lot of conflicting information about septic pumping. Luckily, this article should help clarify the issue and educate you on other matters related to septic pumping.
How Often Does a Septic Tank Require to Be Pumped?
Experts recommend pumping your septic system every three to five years. As such, most people will schedule a septic tank pumping service based on that estimate. The truth is you might need to pump more often than that if your system requires it.
On the contrary, you still have to be mindful of how often you invite a 24/7 septic tank pumping service. Pumping your tank so often might be a waste of money, as it won't help. You must allow the septic tank to do its job before pumping it.
You have to ensure that there is enough scum and sludge build-up before ordering a pumping service. Otherwise, you'll never get a good ROI from your investment. Besides, pumping too often means your tank will always be short of good bacteria.
What Factors Determine the Intervals?
Well, a professional septic service can help determine the pumping intervals by evaluating these factors:
Size of Your Septic Tank
Septic tanks are available in different sizes, with most states having the 1000-gallon septic tanks as the smallest. Most houses with 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms can use the 1000-gallon septic tank. The size of the tank should increase as the house becomes larger. And as you'd expect, most households will take longer to fill a 1750-gallon tank than a 1000-gallon tank. Septic pumping might need to be done frequently if the tank is smaller.
Size of Your Household
As you'd expect, water usage varies depending on household size. A house with few people won't use much water. Therefore, their septic tanks will take time to fill. On the other hand, larger households have high water usage, meaning their septic tanks will fill faster.
What Are the Benefits of Pumping Your Tank Often?
Pumping your septic tanks comes with the following perks:
- Increased durability
- Avoid unnecessary expenses
- Prevent foul odors
- Prevent sewer water back up
- Prevent water contamination
- Prevent slow toilet flushing
- Improve the efficiency of your system
Look for the signs highlighted below if you don't know how often you need to have your septic tank pumped. These signs indicate that your system is due for pumping.
- Sewage backup
- Foul odors
- Slow drains
- It's been long since you had the tank pumped
For more information, contact a local company like Good Shepherd Septic Service.