How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank
Many people tend to avoid homes with septic systems due to the misconception that septic system maintenance is complicated and troublesome. However, as long as you take care of the septic system properly, these plastic or concrete tanks can last for some time without giving you any issues. One of the most common questions homeowners have regarding septic tanks is how often they should be emptied. The answer to how often should you pump your septic tank varies from one family to the next.
How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank?
A general rule of thumb is to have a professional pump your tank every three to five years to maintain its functionality. However, the frequency at which your septic tank should be pumped will vary based on several different factors. For instance, smaller households can wait longer in between septic pumpings than larger households. The size of your septic tank will also play a role, as larger tanks can obviously hold more waste while smaller tanks will require more frequent pumping.
Signs Your Septic Tank Needs to Be Pumped
So, how do you know when your septic tank needs to undergo pumping service? Aside from keeping an eye on the levels of waste in the septic tank, here are a few warning signs that a septic tank pumping is necessary sooner rather than later.
Green Grass
Believe it or not, a lush lawn is a red flag your septic tank is or is almost full. The sewage from the tank has nowhere to go and ends up feeding the surrounding soil, which is why a beautiful lawn (especially near the drainfield) can be indicative of a full tank.
Slow Drains
When you notice the drains in your home start to drain water more slowly, this is a sign that the septic tank is becoming full. This is particularly true if it is more than one drain in the home; otherwise, a slow drain may just be a sign of a clog.
Foul Odors
A full septic tank or the overflow of the tank can cause foul, lingering odors inside and outside the home. If you notice a foul smell coming from an interior drain or the drainfield outside, contact a professional to have the waste pumped as soon as possible.
Sharps Sanitation Is Here for All Your Septic Needs
Serving the El Centro, CA, area, Sharps Sanitation can help you learn more about your septic system, how it operates, and how to properly maintain it so it lasts as long as possible for you with minimal problems. Contact our team today to schedule a septic tank pumping or septic system maintenance.
Categorised in: septic tank