Keeping your septic system running safely and efficiently should always be a top priority. One way to do this is to schedule regular septic tank pumping. You may avoid many common troubles by doing this. Namely, you can reduce the likelihood that the septic tank will require expensive repairs or create health hazards.
But how often should you pump your septic tank? The answer depends on factors such as these.
A Standard Recommendation
Review the pump’s manual for recommendations about pumping schedules. Some pumps might require an annual inspection. In general, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends pumping a septic tank every three to five years. The EPA also recommends inspecting the tank every one to three years, and an inspection may show that pumping sooner rather than later is advisable. Waiting too long to pump the tank could be a big mistake. Sludge collects at the bottom of the tank while scum amasses at the top, and the more you wait, the more sludge and scum will build up. Pumping out the sludge layers may prevent unwelcome problems, such as clogs that lead to backups.
Household and Septic Tank Sizes
The number of people living in the home factors into the intervals for pumping your septic tank. Large households will simply generate more wastewater, and more wastewater means the tank will fill more quickly. The standard 1,000-gallon tank has a specific maximum capacity, so one or two people occupying a house may need the tank pumped only once every four or five years. A family of five would drastically reduce that timeframe. As a side note, you need to confirm the capacity of your home’s tank. If it has a 1,500- or 2,000-gallon capacity, longer intervals may be fine, since it will hold more wastewater.
Heavy Water Usage
Heavy water usage can fill a septic tank faster than expected, even with few household members. High water usage takes many forms, including frequent dishwasher, garbage disposal, or washing machine use, and even long showers. Making mistakes like flushing anything that’s not biodegradable into the septic system can also shorten the intervals. Stopping the flushing of inappropriate items into the septic system will help, but it won’t reverse past damage or create additional space in the tank.
Stay Alert to the Warning Signs
Catching a problem early often leads to a less costly fix. Your septic tank may need immediate pumping if you notice slow drains or gurgling sounds. Foul smells could be another sign that the tank needs an inspection or pumping. Taking action after noticing these signs may prevent an emergency, such as a massive backup overflow. Flooding can result in additional damages and costs. And did you know routine inspections and maintenance can extend a septic tank’s lifespan? That alone could save you even more money.
Do you have any questions about septic tank pumping, or would you like to book service? Call Mustang Septic in College Station, TX, and we’ll do our best to assist you.