If you have a septic system in your home, one important thing you should know is how often to pump the tank. Regular septic tank pumping prevents sewer overflows and removes non-biodegradable solids inside the tank. It boosts the efficiency of the septic tank and drain field and lowers the risk of system failure. Many homeowners don't know how often they should pump their tanks. Should you do it annually or every three years? Here are a few tips to help you create an effective pumping schedule.
Consider the Recommended Timelines
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), households should pump out their septic tanks at least once every three to five years. Consider these timelines if you have a new septic system and don't know how often to pump the tank. However, note that some systems may require pumping every one or two years, while others can get away with one cleaning every five years.
For example, if your tank is smaller than what you typically need for your home, it may fill up faster, necessitating more frequent cleanings. Similarly, if your household flushes non-biodegradable waste and dumps chemicals down the drains, you must pump the system regularly. Therefore, if you want to stretch out the pump-outs to four or five years, you must adopt proper waste management practices.
Monitor the System for Warning Signs
Some households may require more frequent septic tank pump-outs than others. How do you tell if your tank needs to be pumped and cleaned sooner than projected? Look out for the following warning signs:
These are signs the septic tank is full, and the drain field is unable to manage all the wastewater inside the tank. You need to pump the tank to restore proper wastewater flow and management.
Account for Seasonal Changes in Water Usage
Are there times when your household uses more water than usual? For example, most homes use more water during the holidays, when friends and family visit. Increased water usage can strain your septic system, especially if you didn't consider these changes when sizing the tank.
Therefore, your pump-out schedule should account for the seasonal changes in water usage. Schedule a pump-out before the holidays, especially in late fall or early winter. Increased water usage during the cold season can cause inefficiencies in your septic system. However, if the tank is empty and clean, you are less likely to suffer a sewerage emergency.
Consider these tips when creating a septic tank pumping schedule. For professional septic pumping services, contact a sewer contractor.