How to Tell It's Time to Have Your Septic Tank Pumped

At some point, you will need to have your septic tank pumped. This is one of the most important septic tank maintenance routines. However, many people have no idea when they're supposed to have their septic tank pumped or how often they need it done.

Factors That Determine When to Have Your Septic Tank Pumped

No two homes have the same septic tank needs. While some rules of thumb exist, you will ultimately have to decide the best time for you to have your home's septic tank pumped. Several factors can dictate when the time is right.

The Time Since the Last Septic Tank Pumping

If three to five years go by without you having your septic tank pumped, you should consider the service as soon as possible. That time frame can represent a good general interval for you if you don’t have any other issues with your septic tank otherwise.

If you're not sure of the last time you had your septic tank pumped, contact a service to come inspect your septic system. The inspection can help you determine a more proper pumping interval for your septic tank.

The Dimensions of Your Septic Tank

Septic tanks aren't all the same size or depth. The larger the septic tank, the less frequently it will require pumping. A smaller septic tank can require pumping each year or every couple of years. Despite these general rules, other factors exist besides, which can determine septic tank pumping frequency.

The Way You Use Your Septic Tank

Maybe the most important factor in determining how often to have your tank pumped is the activities in your home that affect the tank. Everything that goes down your drains will end up in your septic tank.

The more you add to the septic tank, the harder the bacteria and enzymes in the tank have to work. You can also overwhelm your septic tank, which can lead to the tank needing pumping sooner rather than later.

No matter the size of the septic tank, the more people who make use of it, the more likely it will need pumping more often. A single person, or even a couple, likely won't need septic tank pumping as often as a family.

If you have a garbage disposal and use it often, the buildup of those solids can lead to you needing septic tank pumping more often. Sometimes, a septic tank that requires frequent pumping can mean you need a larger tank for your home's needs.

The Foul Smells From Your Septic Tank

If you notice foul smell emitting from your septic tank, your tank may require pumping. Although, keep in mind that foul odors can also indicate other issues with your septic tank or sewer system.

Water in the pipes connected to your septic system works to keep the smells from the tank out of your home. If the water dries up, those smells can then start coming from your drains.

Other piping and venting problems can lead to odors inside or outside your home as well. Nevertheless, an overfull septic tank is the most common cause of the smell.

An overfull tank can also start leaking. Check for greener grass or pools of water around the tank outside. If the bad smell seems to come from the damp ground around the tank, this is also a sign your tank is ready for a professional septic tank pumping service.

A Professional Can Help You Pump Your Septic Tank

Do your best to take care of your septic tank. Pumping isn't something you should skip, postpone, or neglect.

If you're unsure of where to begin or when you should schedule to have your septic tank pumped, speak with a professional septic system service. For servicing, or to schedule septic tank pumping, contact Southern Sanitary Systems Inc today.