Did you know that 22 million households rely on septic systems to get rid of all the waste in their house? It’s a great way to manage waste, but it does require a little bit of maintenance to keep it running smoothly.
That includes pumping your septic tank. And it’s not a job that you should undertake yourself, as there are special procedures to adhere to, cleaner to use, and procedures to follow.
Still, many homeowners aren’t sure how often they need to pump septic tanks. To help them out, we’ve created this comprehensive guide. Read on to discover when you need to hire a septic company and how you can help ensure your tank continues to function at its best.
Pump Septic Tank Based on Tank Size
The size of your septic tank will largely determine how often you need to pump it. A small tank, holding 1,000 gallons or less, might need to be pumped every one to three years.
Larger tanks, might not require pumping for five years or more. In general, septic tanks should be pumped out every three to five years to prevent them from overflowing.
Based on Usage
The frequency of septic tank pumping based on usage is once every 3-5 years for a two to a four-person household. Once every two years for a five to eight-person household. And once a year for a nine-person or larger household.
However, these are just general recommendations. It is best to have your septic tank pumped when you notice any slow draining in your plumbing fixtures or if there is any sewage backup. It is also important to keep track of the usage of water in the home and to inspect the septic tank every year to see if it needs to be pumped.
Based on the Type of Waste
It is important to have your septic tank pumped on a regular basis to avoid any type of backups or overflows. The frequency of pumping will depend on the type of waste that is being flushed into the tank. If you have a high volume of waste, you will need to pump more often.
Solid waste material such as sewage requires more frequent pumping than liquid waste. In general, septic tanks should be pumped every 3 to 5 years, but this may vary depending on the type and amount of waste material being discharged.
Based on Weather
Pumping a septic tank varies depending on seasonal weather conditions. For example, during the winter when rainfall is typically lower, you might only need to pump once every five years.
However, during the rainy season, you might need to pump as often as once a year. In general, it is best to pump when necessary and has your septic tank inspected regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
Maintaining Your Septic Tank
If your septic tank is properly designed, constructed, and maintained, it should last for many years. You should pump septic tanks every three to five years to remove the sludge and scum layers. This will help keep your septic system working properly.
Pumping your septic tank too often can be detrimental to your system. If you are unsure how often to pump your tank, you can consult a professional septic tank service.
If you are in need of more septic tank advice make sure you check out the rest of what we have on our site.
