GENERAL PUMPING GUIDELINES
The question we are asked most often is, “how often should I have my septic tank pumped?” The chart below provides a handy guideline for pumping schedules. As a general rule, most tanks need to pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on the size of the tank, daily flow of wastewater into the tank, & use of garbage disposal.*" At the time the tank is being pumped, your technician should be able to help you determine how long to wait before having it pumped again. Proper maintenance of your system will provide trouble free operation and add years to its potential lifespan.
*Estimated septic tank pumping frequencies in years (Source: Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension Service)
what does a typical residential pump out service entail?
Locating the system
Uncovering access hole(s) to tank
Flushing the toilets to test the water flow through the inlet sewer pipe
Water flow test on the outlet sewer pipe to the disposal area
Checking for signs of backup
Cleaning the filter on the outlet sewer pipe (if applicable)
Measuring scum and sludge layers of you tank
Identifying any leaks, structural damage and/or issues with your tank
Inspecting mechanical components
Pumping the entire contents of the tank (if necessary based on scum/sludge)
Covering the access holes back up
order a maintenance pump out
or emergency service
STRATEGIES FOR FEWER PUMPS:
Limit or stop using the garbage disposal.
Avoid putting large amounts of harsh chemicals down drains.
Don’t flush non-biodegradable products such as baby wipes and feminine hygiene products.
Conserving water use in the house ensures slow movement of wastewater into the septic tank, reasonably complete digestion of solids and slow trickling of wastewater from the tank to the disposal area.
THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED:
Gurgling toilets
Sluggish drains after laundry or showers
Wet spots over septic tank and/or leach lines
Dripping faucets and/or toilets that run continuously
COMMON CAUSES OF BACKUPS:
Clogged filter in tank outlet tee (only in tanks installed after (2001)
Roots from trees planted too close to the septic tank or leach lines
Partially or totally collapsed inlet or outlet pipes
Solids build-up inside tank
*Source: https://extension.arizona.edu/sites/extension.arizona.edu/files/pubs/az1160.pdf
OTHER ISSUES AND THEIR PROBABLE CAUSES:
Septic odors (outside): Plumbing vent pipe is shorter than the highest point of the home’s roofline or tank doesn’t have inlet tee.
Septic odors (inside): The drains for each fixture in your home (sinks, bathtub/showers, toilets) have a U-shaped trap in them. This trap holds water and creates a barrier that keeps septic gases from entering the house. If any of the fixtures are not used on a regular basis, the water in the traps will evaporate and the gases will find their way into the house. Generally speaking, odors inside the house can usually be traced to a plumbing problem and should be immediately discussed with your plumber.