How Often Should a Septic Tank be Pumped?
When it comes to your septic system, the single most important consideration is regular maintenance. Unfortunately, many homeowners ignore the system until there is something wrong. By calling for regular liquid waste removal for your septic tank, you can prevent solids from escaping to the drain field and clogging the solid pores. It is a good idea to seek these services, at the least, once every three years if your home does not have a garbage disposal. However, if the home does have a garbage disposal, yearly pumping may be necessary.
Commercial Building Pumping Needs
For commercial building owners, the frequency of pumps should be based on prior accumulation and past pumping records. In many cases, you can simply look at the pumping intervals to determine the schedule to follow. For example, in the past did you wait an excessive amount of time to have the tank pumped only to discover it was filled to max capacity? Or could you have waited a few more months for this service?
Don't Use the "If it's not broke, don't fix it" Philosophy
There are far too many residential and commercial property owners who believe that if there are no issues present with the system, they don't need to seek pumping services. The fact is, this can be a serious and often costly misconception. As the system continues to be used, the solid materials will start to settle at the tank's bottom, which creates a level of sludge. Lightweight materials, such as grease, will float to the surface of the tank, creating a layer of scum.
As the sludge increases past the point of safe accumulation, the sewage will not be able to properly settle before leaving the tank. This will result in more solids moving into the soil absorption system and clogging it. This minimizes the ability for the liquid to be absorbed properly, causing the plumbing to back up and unsanitary wastewater to come into the drains and toilets of a home or business.
Hiring a Proper Pumper
It is important to find a service that understands what to do to ensure the septic system is able to work properly and safely once again. Take some time to research the options, to find the right company for the job.
If pumping services are not sought on a regular basis, it may result in serious issues including wastewater backing up into the home.