Inspect and Pump Frequently The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years.
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- Typically, a steel septic tank will last between 15 and 20 years. Tanks made of concrete or plastic are usually preferable in terms of longevity. A properly maintained septic system with a concrete tank can last well over 40 years.
How often should a septic?
While most homeowners should have their septic tanks cleaned every 3 to 5 years, depending on your septic tank size and how big your household is, you may need Septic Tank Cleaning Services as frequently as every 1-3 years.
How do you know when to change septic tank?
5 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Septic System
- Age of the System. It’s pretty common for a septic system to last 40 years or longer, which means if you buy a new home, you might never need to replace it.
- You’ve Outgrown the System.
- Slow Drains.
- Standing Water in the Yard.
- Nearby Contaminated Water Sources.
How often do septic tanks last?
The lifespan of a septic system varies widely — from 15 to 40 years. This is because there are many factors that affect a septic tank’s life expectancy, including its materials and whether it has experienced damage from vehicle traffic, flooding by groundwater or clogging by roots.
How do you know your septic tank is full?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:
- Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
- Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
- Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
- You Hear Gurgling Water.
- You Have A Sewage Backup.
- How often should you empty your septic tank?
Can you pump a septic tank too often?
If your septic tank is pumped too often, that bacteria will have no place to go but out into the drain field, which can lead to clogs and failures. So unless your septic tank’s sludge and scum levels reach certain thresholds, it’s actually beneficial to leave the septic tank alone.
What is the most common cause of septic system failure?
Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.
What will ruin a septic system?
Any paper products like tissues, paper towels, tampons, or sanitary products, even some heavier toilet paper, will clog your system if you flush enough of it. Wet wipes are another product that you should never flush into a septic system.
Can I shower if my septic tank is full?
Only the water would get out into the leach field in a proper system unless you run too much water too fast. The thing to do is to run your shower water outside into it’s own drain area, but it may not be allowed where you are. Used to be called gray water system.
How do I clean my septic tank naturally?
You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!
What if my septic tank has never been pumped?
What Are the Consequences of Not Pumping Your Tank? If the tank is not pumped, the solids will build up in the tank and the holding capacity of the tank will be diminished. Eventually, the solids will reach the pipe that feeds into the drain field, causing a clog. Waste water backing up into the house.
Why doesn’t grass grow over my septic tank?
Lawn grass species prefer moist, high pH soil, and direct sunlight. Growing grass over a septic tank can be challenging due to the acidic, low-pH soil resulting from sewage runoff into the leach field.
How to Care for Your Septic System
Septic system maintenance is neither difficult or expensive, and it does not have to be done frequently. The maintenance of a vehicle is comprised of four major components:
- Inspect and pump your drainfield on a regular basis
- Conserve water
- Dispose of waste properly
- And keep your drainfield in good condition.
Inspect and Pump Frequently
Inspection of the ordinary residential septic system should be performed by a septic service specialist at least once every three years. Household septic tanks are normally pumped every three to five years, depending on how often they are used. Alternative systems that use electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be examined more frequently, typically once a year, to ensure that they are in proper working order. Because alternative systems contain mechanical components, it is essential to have a service contract.
- The size of the household
- The total amount of wastewater produced
- The amount of solids present in wastewater
- The size of the septic tank
Service provider coming? Here is what you need to know.
When you contact a septic service provider, he or she will inspect your septic tank for leaks as well as the scum and sludge layers that have built up over time. Maintain detailed records of any maintenance work conducted on your septic system. Because of the T-shaped outlet on the side of your tank, sludge and scum will not be able to escape from the tank and travel to the drainfield region. A pumping is required when the bottom of the scum layer or the top of the sludge layer is within six inches of the bottom of the outlet, or if the top of the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the bottom of the outlet.
In the service report for your system, the service provider should mention the completion of repairs as well as the condition of the tank.
An online septic finder from the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) makes it simple to identify service specialists in your region.
Use Water Efficiently
In a normal single-family house, the average indoor water consumption is about 70 gallons per person, per day, on average. A single leaking or running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water each day, depending on the situation. The septic system is responsible for disposing of all of the water that a residence sends down its pipes. The more water that is conserved in a household, the less water that enters the sewage system. A septic system that is operated efficiently will operate more efficiently and will have a lower chance of failure.
- Toilets with a high level of efficiency. The usage of toilets accounts for 25 to 30% of total home water use. Many older homes have toilets with reservoirs that hold 3.5 to 5 gallons of water, but contemporary, high-efficiency toilets consume 1.6 gallons or less of water for each flush. Changing out your old toilets for high-efficiency versions is a simple approach to lessen the amount of household water that gets into your septic system. Aerators for faucets and high-efficiency showerheads are also available. Reduce water use and the volume of water entering your septic system by using faucet aerators, high-efficiency showerheads, and shower flow restriction devices. Machines for washing clothes. Water and energy are wasted when little loads of laundry are washed on the large-load cycle of your washing machine. By selecting the appropriate load size, you may limit the amount of water wasted. If you are unable to specify a load size, only complete loads of washing should be performed. Washing machine use should be spread throughout the week if at all possible. Doing all of your household laundry in one day may appear to be a time-saving strategy
- Nevertheless, it can cause damage to your septic system by denying your septic tank adequate time to handle waste and may even cause your drainfield to overflow. Machines that have earned theENERGY STARlabel consume 35 percent less energy and 50 percent less water than ordinary ones, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Other Energy Star appliances can save you a lot of money on your energy and water bills.
Properly Dispose of Waste
Everything that goes down your drains, whether it’s flushed down the toilet, ground up in the trash disposal, or poured down the sink, shower, or bath, ends up in your septic system, which is where it belongs. What you flush down the toilet has an impact on how effectively your septic system functions.
Toilets aren’t trash cans!
Your septic system is not a garbage disposal system.
A simple rule of thumb is to never flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Never flush a toilet:
- Cooking grease or oil
- Wipes that are not flushable, such as baby wipes or other wet wipes
- Photographic solutions
- Feminine hygiene items Condoms
- Medical supplies such as dental floss and disposable diapers, cigarette butts and coffee grounds, cat litter and paper towels, pharmaceuticals, and household chemicals such as gasoline and oil, insecticides, antifreeze, and paint or paint thinners
Toilet Paper Needs to Be Flushed! Check out this video, which demonstrates why the only item you should flush down your toilet are toilet paper rolls.
Think at the sink!
Your septic system is made up of a collection of living organisms that digest and treat the waste generated by your household. Pouring pollutants down your drain can kill these organisms and cause damage to your septic system as well as other things. Whether you’re at the kitchen sink, the bathtub, or the utility sink, remember the following:
- If you have a clogged drain, avoid using chemical drain openers. To prevent this from happening, use hot water or a drain snake
- Never dump cooking oil or grease down the sink or toilet. It is never a good idea to flush oil-based paints, solvents, or huge quantities of harmful cleansers down the toilet. Even latex paint waste should be kept to a bare minimum. Disposal of rubbish should be avoided or limited to a minimum. Fats, grease, and particles will be considerably reduced in your septic tank, reducing the likelihood of your drainfield being clogged.
Own a recreational vehicle (RV), boat or mobile home?
If you have ever spent any time in an RV or boat, you are undoubtedly familiar with the issue of aromas emanating from sewage holding tanks.
- The problem of smells from sewage holding tanks is undoubtedly familiar to everyone who has spent any time in an RV or boat.
Maintain Your Drainfield
It is critical that you maintain the integrity of your drainfield, which is a component of your septic system that filters impurities from the liquid that emerges from your septic tank once it has been installed. Here are some things you should do to keep it in good condition:
- It is critical that you maintain the integrity of your drainfield, which is a component of your septic system that filters impurities from the liquid that exits your septic tank. You should perform the following to keep it in good condition:
How Often Should You Have Your Septic Tank Pumped?
Smaller septic tanks (500 gallons or less) are available for smaller residences, whereas larger tanks (2,500 gallons or more) are available for larger properties. Smaller tanks, it goes without saying, will require more frequent pumping than their bigger counterparts. When it comes to how often your septic tank has to be pumped, it’s not just about the size of the tank itself. Your septic tank pumping schedule will also be determined by the number of individuals that live in your house on a regular basis.
Remember, a family of eight will almost certainly create a bigger strain on your septic system than a family of four will on theirs.
A 1000-gallon septic tank, for example, that serves a household of five is recommended to have its contents cleaned out every two years according to the pumping frequency table.
Other Factors Can Also Influence Pumping Frequency
It is not just the size of your septic tank and the number of people in your household that might influence how often you need to have your tank pumped. A trash disposal, for example, can significantly increase the quantity of solid waste that is mixed with the wastewater that is delivered to your septic tank. It is possible that the increased input of sediments and oils will lead your septic tank to need to be pumped sooner than intended. The presence of a sewage ejector pump might also have an impact on the frequency with which your septic tank is pumped.
It is also possible that the use of enzymes and bacterial additions in your septic tank will have an influence on the frequency of pumping.
But these chemicals can seriously upset the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria already present in the tank, resulting in increased solid waste production and more frequent pumping.
Signs Your Septic Tank Could Use Pumping
Septic system maintenance may be made much easier by paying attention to the details of your system. You should contact a professional if you see any of the warning signals listed below, since this indicates that your septic tank is in need of repair.
- Sinks, toilets, and other fixtures may drain more slowly than usual if your septic tank is overflowing
- Flooding of a septic tank- A septic tank that is overflowing with wastewater can cause wastewater to back up into your home through the drains and toilets
- Odors from your yard or plumbing that are offensive might indicate that your septic tank needs to be professionally cleaned
- If you notice water gathering on or near your drain field, it’s likely that your septic tank will need to be serviced.
Having your septic tank pumped out on a regular basis may help to ensure that your septic system remains in good working order for many years to come. Contact Bowen’s Septic now to find out more or to book a service appointment.
Why do I need to clean my septic tank every three years?
Pumping and checking your septic system on a regular basis can assist to extend the life of your onsite wastewater system, avoid costly repairs, and safeguard the quality of the water you use. Michigan has more than 1.3 million onsite wastewater treatment systems, according to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. The vast majority of them are for single-family houses with a septic system. On-site wastewater treatment systems, which include septic tanks and soil absorption fields, are the most frequent kind of household wastewater treatment system in rural areas throughout the United States.
- We are vulnerable to fecal pollution because of the failure of our onsite waste water systems, which are either inefficient or non-existent.
- This pollution might be caused by a leaking septic tank system.
- Residential wastewater systems in Michigan’s rural areas require frequent maintenance to keep them operating properly.
- As of this writing, Michigan is the only state to have standard onsite wastewater rules.
- Accordingly, onside wastewater system regulations differ from one county to the next in different states.
- Generally speaking, most regulations state that a household of four should have their well pumped and inspected every three years on average.
Many also demand that newly installed systems be inspected before they may be used. Nothing comes back to check on the system a year or two later to ensure that it is still in good working order. In most cases, an onsite wastewater system is composed of three main components:
- Pumping and checking your septic system on a regular basis can assist to extend the life of your onsite wastewater system, avoid costly repairs, and safeguard the quality of the water you use and consume. There are about 1.3 million onsite wastewater treatment systems in Michigan, according to the state’s Department of environmental protection. Single-family homes with septic systems account for the vast majority of applications. On-site wastewater treatment systems, which include septic tanks and soil absorption fields, are the most often used household wastewater treatment systems in rural areas in the United States. Approximately 10% of these systems are believed to be malfunctioning or have failed in Michigan, according to available data. Our ground and surface waters are vulnerable to fecal pollution as a result of the failure of onsite waste water systems. It was discovered that several rivers in the Lower Peninsula had genetic markers suggesting that human fecal matter had been present when the rivers were examined under low-flow conditions, and that these markers were found to be present in several other rivers as well. Septic systems that are leaking can cause this pollution. Michigan’s water quality may be protected by keeping septic systems in excellent shape. Household wastewater systems in rural Michigan require frequent maintenance to function properly. The size of your system, the number of people that reside in your house, and the county in which you live all influence the amount of maintenance and inspection required. Michigan is the latest state to have adopted unified onsite wastewater laws, having done so in 1995. Without standard state regulations and inspection legislation, local officials must rely on county health departments and health districts to regulate and inspect their constituents. Accordingly, onside wastewater system regulations differ from one county to the next in many ways. Septic tank inspections are required by law in most counties, although only a handful have standards that are the same or equivalent in terms of size and placement. Pumping and inspecting should be done every three years for a household of four, according to the majority of ordinances. Newly installed systems are likewise subject to scrutiny by many. Nothing comes back to check on the system a year or two later to make sure everything is still working properly. Three main components are usually included in an on-site wastewater treatment system:
Sewage water is channeled through drain pipes from the toilets, laundry, and kitchen sinks of the house and into the septic tank. Septic tanks are constructed of solid cast concrete (in the majority of cases) and include both an intake and an outflow for effluent. As soon as the waste is introduced into the tank, the particles fall to the bottom and begin to breakdown, forming the sludge layer. The middle layer is made up of effluent water, while the top layer is made up of lighter oil and soaps that float to the top and form the scum layer.
- Newer tanks may have a baffle, which creates a second settling region before water is discharged into the soil absorption field, which is beneficial.
- It is important to note that if the sludge is not pushed out on a regular basis, the layer will get thick, enabling solids to seep into the drainage field.
- Many people believe that this is an indication that the septic tank is full, which it most certainly is, but it is also a symptom of a failure.
- This is one of the most often seen failures.
- You should seek professional assistance if you are suffering sewage waste backup into your home from your septic tank.
- Regular inspections and pumps might help you avoid costly issues down the road.
- The usual guideline is every three years for a normal family house with three bedrooms and a 1000 gallon tank, which is fitted with a water heater.
Tanks in older homes may be smaller in size.
For example, if a three-bedroom home has a 900-gallon septic tank and there are six people living in the residence, the tank should be pumped every one and one-half to two years to avoid failure.
Pumping will be required on a more frequent basis in this residence.
Inspectors examine your system to ensure that it is in good working order.
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has a guidance on underground onsite wastewater treatment systems, however its recommendations are not enforceable under Michigan law.
For further in-depth information, the National Environmental Services Center at West Virginia University has a nice paper that includes a timetable in years for pumping recommendations at the conclusion of it.
A lengthier training film (about 110 minutes) about onsite wastewater septic systems can be found here.
For additional information on onsite waste water treatment septic tanks, contact Michigan State University ExtensionNatural Resources educators who are working around the state to provide instructional programming and support on water quality and septic tank management.
You can reach out to an educator using MSU Extension’s ” Find an Expert ” search engine by searching for “Natural Resources Water Quality” in the keywords field.
Additional Resources:
Education on Septic Systems Do you have any water? Septic examinations at the time of sale can help to safeguard water quality: Part 1. Michigan has the nation’s laxest septic system rules, according to the EPA. Michigan’s rivers are being threatened by thousands of faulty septic tanks. In Michigan, there are specific requirements for on-site wastewater treatment.
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Each and every homeowner who has a septic system is aware that septic tank pumping is one of the most vital preventative maintenance tasks. Tanks must be pumped by a competent expert on a regular basis, according to a set schedule. Listed below is important information for Prior Lake, Minnesota septic system owners on how frequently septic tanks should be pumped out. The greatest and worst times of year to pump are shown below. Septic systems are distinct from the common city sewer systems that most people are familiar with.
- Septic tanks, on the other hand, are owned by people and are located on private land.
- In the meanwhile, it’s being stored in an underground tank until a septic pumping firm can come empty it.
- Although it may come as a surprise to some, there are certain seasons of the year when it is best and worst to have your septic tank drained.
- Depending of how much snow there is where you live, the technician may have difficulty locating your tank for service.
- The optimal seasons to pump your septic tank are during the spring and summer months.
- Pumping your tank during the warmer months is a smart idea in order to prepare for increased consumption and to make maintenance easier for your expert.
- The presence of numerous various signals that it is time to pump your septic tank should alert you that it is necessary.
- A household septic tank requires pumping service on average every three to five years, depending on the size of the system. It’s possible that you’ve lost count of how long it’s been since your system was last pumped
- If this is the case, contact the technician who performed the previous pumping and ask for a records check. Water that collects in a pool: Leaking septic tanks may be identified by the presence of random pools of water in your yard and the presence of lush green grass surrounding your tanks and drain field. noxious odors: Sewage backups in your home or yard can cause offensive aromas to emanate from your drains and into your home and yard. It’s likely that the tank is near to being completely depleted. Slow drains: Slow drains might also indicate that the tank is reaching its maximum capacity.
Pumping a septic tank on a regular basis The normal septic tank requires pumping on a regular basis, however the frequency varies from household to household. Septic tank pumping should be performed every three to five years, depending on the circumstances of your situation. There are several things to consider, including the typical amount of waste and wastewater generated in your house, the number of people who live in your home, the size of your septic tank, and the sorts of cleansers, chemicals, and soaps that you flush down the drain.
Today is the day to contact Mike’s SepticMcKinley Sewer Services in Prior Lake, MN to schedule a time for summer septic tank pumping.
How Often Should I Pump Out My Septic Tank?
It is most common for septic tanks to be erected in rural regions where there is no access to a municipal sewage system. This implies that they often service dwellings in rural regions or those that were constructed prior to the installation of sewage lines. These tanks must be pumped out on a regular basis in order to avoid sewage blockages and other issues. In the event that you’re new to your home and have never lived in a home served by a septic tank before, you’re probably wondering when your tank needs to be pumped out and what it even implies in the first place.
When to Empty Your Tank
The majority of septic tanks require pumping out every 3-5 years. The precise interval, on the other hand, will be determined by the size of your tank as well as the number of people currently residing in your home. It is possible for one individual to spend up to 10 years without pumping, but a whole family may need to have its bladder pumped out every two years. If at all feasible, reach out to neighbors who have septic tanks of comparable capacity and families of similar size. Inquire about how frequently they empty the septic tank and use that information as a guideline.
You may just get it pushed out right now and start your count all over again.
By the time that occurs, it is possible that your system has already sustained some harm.
Why Pump Your Septic Tank
One of the most common reasons for pumping out your tank is system overload, which has been detailed above. After all, it has a limit to how much it can carry. Your septic tank is constructed in such a way that heavier materials sink to the bottom and congeal to produce a kind of sludge. If the sludge levels in the tank get to an unsafe level, they might clog the pipes in the tank that carry the liquid sewage away. Obviously, this liquid needs to go someplace, and it frequently comes up back in your home, wreaking all kinds of havoc in the process.
How Septic Tank Pumping Works
Our pumping crew will dispatch a sewage disposal vehicle to the scene. We’ll attach up that vehicle to your septic tank, switch on the pumps, and pump out all of the trash and sludge that’s been building up inside of it. A couple of hours is generally plenty, while the precise time required will depend on how much sewage you have and whether or not we face any difficulties along the way. The majority of the time, though, we are in and out before you realize it! Make contact with us at WasteWater Logistics immediately to organize a septic pumping appointment.
We’ll be on time for your septic tank emptying and get rid of the sludge as quickly as possible. Your septic tank will be in excellent working order again in no time at all. Call us immediately or fill out this form to obtain a free quotation!
How Often Do You Really Need To Pump Your Septic Tank?
A sewage disposal vehicle will be dispatched by our pumping crew. It is our responsibility to connect that truck to your septic tank, switch on the pumps, and remove the trash and sludge that has accumulated there. A couple of hours is generally plenty, while the precise time required will depend on how much sewage you have and whether or not we meet any difficulties along the route. The majority of the time, though, we are in and out in no time! Make contact with WasteWater Logistics right once to book a septic pumping service.
It won’t take long before your septic tank is back in tip-top form!
How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank?
The most often asked question we receive is “How often should I pump my septic tank?” This is by far the most common question we receive. New homeowners who are unfamiliar with septic systems are frequently required to learn how to properly manage their septic systems in order to avoid costly difficulties in the future. As an alternative to sewer systems and as an ecologically beneficial approach to handle domestic drain waste, a septic system is distinct from a sewer system and requires extra attention and upkeep to function properly.
Septic tank pumping should be done at the right interval for your home
The fact is that, while there are some broad suggestions that a septic system should be pumped every 2-5 years, the truth is that you actually only need to pump your system as frequently as your system requires. The amount of sludge and scum present in a septic tank is the most important element in determining how often it should be flushed. When your septic system functions, it does so by taking use of the natural force of gravity to break out the household wastewater into three distinct components:
- Solids (sludge) accumulate at the bottom of the tank
- Grease (scum) accumulates at the top of the tank
- And watery mix (effluent) accumulates in the center of the tank.
When the system is operating normally, the sludge and scum remain in the septic tank while the watery mix drains out into the drain field. The sludge and scum in the septic tank, on the other hand, must be removed from time to time in order to keep things running well. Sludge levels that reach dangerous levels, and/or a scum layer that has developed to a significant thickness, will be driven out into the drain field together with the watery effluent, resulting in a clogging of the drain field.
This can result in the growth of harmful germs in your house, as well as the need for a costly repair.
Most homeowners pumping more often than necessary are overspending!
Essentially, by pumping your septic tank too frequently, there is not enough sludge and scum buildup in the tank to ensure that you earn the optimum return on your investment in the costs of pumping your tank. Paying for the service more frequently than you need to is a waste of money that provides no additional benefits, just like paying for any other periodic maintenance. The fact is that your septic system does require a certain number of beneficial bacteria to function properly. Septic tanks employ anaerobic digestion, which is similar to the digestive system of humans, to naturally break down waste before it is sent on to the next phase of treatment.
Yeast is a type of bacterium that enters your tank each time an organic waste material is flushed down the toilet, and it breaks down the waste material into sludge and effluent.
It is really beneficial to leave your septic tank alone unless the quantities of sludge and scum in your tank exceed specified criteria; otherwise, it is detrimental. This ensures that the proper balance of bacteria is maintained in order to keep your system running properly.
So, how will you knowhow often you should pump your septic tank?
As you can see, the sludge and scum levels in your septic tank are the two most important criteria in determining your plan of maintenance. You should have your septic tank pumped when the sludge level reaches one foot at the bottom of the tank, or when the scum layer at the top of the tank has grown to almost six inches in thickness at the top. Contrary to common assumption, the majority of homes do not require yearly pumping. It is purely dependent on the level of your tank, and not on a fixed time frame.
How to Find Out if Your Septic Tank is Full
To begin, find and gently remove the septic tank lid from its mounting bracket. Use extra caution to ensure that the heavy lid does not crack or shatter, and never leave the tank open while you are not watching it! If a person or a pet falls into the tank, which has 4-5 feet of water beneath, it may be quite deadly. In the following stage, you will examine the scum trap at the very top of the tank to see how thick the scum layer is. You should pump your septic tank when the scum level has reached 6 inches thick, as a general rule of thumb.
- While it is possible to acquire a specialized sludge level measurement stick, it is also possible to create your own at yourself.
- The velcro end will be the one that will be inserted into the aquarium.
- Then, holding the measuring stick straight up, verify the velcro strip for accuracy.
- The septic tank should be pumped after it has accumulated one foot (12 inches) of sludge, as recommended by the manufacturer.
Grant’s Septic Techs, in contrast to many other septic service companies, will actually use photographic documentation to show you exactly where your waste levels are, as well as to assist you in tracking the amount of time it takes for your scum and sludge levels to build up to the appropriate levels.
- If you do not require septic pumping services, there is no reason to pay for them.
- For the low price of $127, we will come to your home and do all of the necessary measurements for you.
- We’ll take actual images of your systems to document their current state and create a personalized proposal for your unique timetable.
- In fact, if we discover that your septic tank levels require pumping at the time of inspection, we will not charge you for the measurement service.
- In order to maintain the health of your septic system and get on the bestseptic tank pumping maintenance plan for your house, please contact Grant Septic Technologies at (508) 529-6255 or book a septic tank pumping appointment conveniently online.
Check to see whether your town is included in our Massachusetts service region by entering your address here.
Misconceptions of Septic Systems
| You never have to have the septic tank pumped.As the septic system is used, the solids (sludge) accumulate on the bottom of the septic tank(s). When the sludge level increases, sewage has less time to settle properly before leaving the tank through the outlet pipe and a greater percent of suspended solids escape into the absorption area. If sludge accumulates too long, no settling of the solids will occur, and the solids will be able to directly enter the absorption area. These solids will clog the distribution lines and soil and cause serious and expensive problems for the homeowner. To prevent this, the tank must be pumped out on a regular basis.If you use additives you don’t have to have the tank pumped.The claims made by companies that sell additives are that you never have to pump your tank. What the products do is break up the scum and sludge so that there is a greater percent ofsuspended solidsin the tank that then flow down the over flow pipe with the effluent to your absorption area, causing your system to fail.The absorption area is designed to treat water or effluent, not solids.The septic tank is designed to contain and treat the solids and they should remain in the tank. It is much less costly to pump your tank on a routine basis than ultimately having to replace your absorption area.It takes years between having the tank pumped for the septic tank to fill to its capacity.The average usage for a family of four will fill a septic tank to its working capacity of 1000 – 1500 gallons in approximately one week. When the contents (liquids and solids) in the tank reaches the level of the overflow pipe, the effluent flows down the overflow pipe to the absorption area every time water is used in the house.The tank works at this full level until it is emptied when it is pumped again.When the alarm for the pump sounds it means you need to pump your tank.If you have a system designed with a pump to pump the effluent to the absorption area you also have an alarm for the septic system.The alarm sounds when the water level rises in the pump tank and alerts you that there is a malfunction with your pump, float switches, or other component in the pump tank.It does not mean that it is time for a routine pumping of your tank. |
Septic Tank Pumping
Septic tanks are used in the vast majority of on-lot sewage systems nowadays. The subject of how frequently a septic tank should be pumped has been a source of contention for several decades. For example, there are some homeowners who say they have never drained their septic tank and that it “appears” to be in fine working condition. While trying to establish a standard pumping strategy, authorities have taken a more conservative approach and have declared that all septic tanks should be pump out every two to three years.
How a Septic Tank Works
Box 1.Can you tell me how much solid trash you generate? The average adult consumes around one quart of food every day. The body removes just a very little percentage of this meal and utilizes it to provide energy for the body’s functions. The remaining portion is discharged into the waste water system. This translates into around 90 gallons of solid waste being discharged into the septic tank per adult each year. Based on the assumption that the anaerobic bacteria in the septic tank reduce the waste volume by around 60%, this indicates that each adult contributes approximately 60 gallons of solids to their septic tank each year.
- Consequently, it will take around 5 years for one adult to completely fill a 1,000-gallon septic tank with sludge and scum, which is approximately 300 gallons.
- It is simple to infer that a septic tank should be pumped every two to three years after accounting for adults who work outside the home for a third of the time and children who attend school after making these modifications to the study.
- Single chamber septic tanks were the most common type of septic tank until recently.
- Septic tanks are designed to aid the removal of particles that are heavier than water by encouraging these heavy particles to settle to the tank bottom, resulting in the formation of the sludge layer.
- It is also designed to keep particles that are lighter than water by encouraging these lighter particles to float to the surface and be maintained in the tank, resulting in a layer of scum on the surface of the tank.
In part, this is due to the fact that the temperature of the septic tank is equal to that of the soil surrounding it, and the anaerobic bacteria require higher temperatures in order to effectively decompose organic material in wastewater and thus reduce the biological oxygen demand (BOD) of the wastewater.
- Holding on to the heavy (settleable) and lighter (floatable) particles allows the septic tank to gently fill with solids from the bottom up as well as from the top down.
- Septic tanks with an exit filter will catch and decrease the flow of solids into the absorption area when the tank is properly designed and installed.
- As a result, it is critical that every septic tank be pumped on a regular basis to eliminate the organic particles that have been collected and partially digested.
- Small amounts of the particles kept in the tank degrade, but the vast majority of the solids stay and build up in the tank.
- Under no circumstances should you enter a septic tank.
- With continued usage of the on-lot wastewater disposal system, an accumulation of sludge and scum builds up in the septic tank.
- As the amount of sludge and scum in the tank fills up, wastewater is maintained in the tank for a shorter period of time, and the solids removal process becomes less efficient as a result.
It is necessary to pump the tank on a regular basis in order to avoid this. Asseptage is the term used to describe the substance injected. Cross-sectional view of a two-chamber septic tank (Figure 1).
| Number of bedrooms in the home | Estimated daily flow (gallons/day) | Minimum septic tank size (gallons) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 400 | 900 |
| 4 | 500 | 1,250 |
| 5 | 600 | 1,400 |
| 6 | 700 | 1,550 |
How Frequent should a Septic Tank be Pumped?
Pumping frequency is determined by a number of parameters, including:
- The capacity of the septic tank
- The amount of wastewater that is put to the septic tank each day (see Table 1)
- The amount of solids in a wastewater stream is measured. In this regard, it should be noted that there are various different types of particles that are regularly dumped into a septic system. This group of solids includes (1) biodegradable “organic” solids such as feces (see Box 1), (2) slowly biodegradable “organic” solids such as toilet paper and cellulosic compounds, which take a long time to biodegrade in the septic tank, and (3) non-biodegradable solids such as kitty litter, plastics, and other non-biodegradable materials, which do not biodegrade and quickly fill the septic tank It is possible to significantly reduce the quantity of slowly biodegradable organics and non-biodegradable trash that is introduced to your septic tank by reducing the amount of organic waste that is added to the tank.
Another factor that influences how soon a septic tank will fill with solids is one’s way of living. In terms of septic tank function, the two most essential aspects of one’s lifestyle are as follows: A person’s way of living has an impact on how quickly a septic tank fills with sediments. In terms of septic tank function, the two most significant aspects of one’s lifestyle are the following:
Is It Time To Pump Your Septic Tank?
So, how does one go about determining how frequently a septic tank needs be cleaned? We are aware that residences who dispose of huge volumes of non-biodegradable and slowly biodegradable organic waste into their septic tank require more frequent pumping. It is also known that prior to the time at which the collected solids have accumulated to the point that they are being taken with the tank effluent to the absorption region, the septic tank should be pump out. When it comes to determining when (and how frequently) to pump your septic tank, there are two generally safe ways to use.
The alternative method is to open the access port to the first chamber (as shown in Figure 1) once a year and insert a long pole to the bottom of the tank and then pull it out of the tank.
If the sludge has accumulated to more than one-third of the tank’s total depth, it is time to have it drained out completely.
The Pumping Process
Contractors who specialize in septic tank pumping and hauling may pump your septic tank. It is a good idea to be present to check that everything is completed correctly. For the material to be extracted from the tank, it is necessary to break up the scum layer, and the sludge layer must be combined with the liquid section of the tank. In most cases, this is accomplished by alternately pumping liquid out of the tank and re-injecting it into the bottom of the tank. Not the little intake or outlet inspection openings situated above each baffle, but the two huge central access ports (manholes) are required for pumping the septic tank.
It is not suggested to use additives in septic tanks to minimize the volume of sludge or as a substitute for pumping in order to achieve these goals.
When you have your septic tank pumped, you should consider taking an additional step to ensure that your septic system continues to perform correctly for a long time.
This inspector can tell you whether or not your septic tank needs to be repaired, as well as whether or not other components of your sewage system require upkeep.
Install risers from the central access ports and inspection ports to the soil surface in order to make future cleaning and inspection more convenient and efficient. Mark the position of the tank as well, so that it may be found simply in the future for pumping.
Schedule Septic Tank Pumping
Homeowners should develop the practice of getting their septic tanks drained on a regular basis. As long as you are able and willing to schedule regular septic tank pumping (every two or three years, for example), it may be feasible to improve the overall performance of your complete on-lot wastewater disposal system. According to research conducted at Penn State, your soil absorption system will benefit from frequent resting periods (a period during which no wastewater is added to the absorption area).
In other words, the whole system, particularly the soil absorption region, will have the opportunity to dry up, and any organic waste (biomat) that may have formed in the soil absorption area will degrade swiftly in the absence of water.
Summary
Having the sewage tank emptied should become an annual ritual for homeowners. If you are able and willing to have your septic tank pumped on a regular basis (every two or three years, for example), it may be feasible to improve the overall efficiency of your complete on-lot wastewater disposal system even more. It has been demonstrated by researchers at Penn State that occasional resting of your soil absorption system is beneficial (a period during which no wastewater is added to the absorption area).
Therefore, the entire system, particularly the soil absorption region, will have the opportunity to dry up, and any partially digested organic waste (biomat) that may have grown in the soil absorption area will degrade swiftly in the absence of water.
For additional assistance contact
Your local Sewage Enforcement Officer or Extension Educator can help you with these issues. A contact for the Pennsylvania Association of Sewage Enforcement Officers (PASEO) is as follows:4902 Carlisle Pike,268Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 Phone: 717-761-8648 Email: [email protected] Philadelphia, PA 18016 717-763-7762 [email protected] Pennsylvania Septage Management Association (PSMA)P.O. Box 144 Bethlehem, PA 18016 717-763-7762
How Often Should You Pump Out Your Septic Tank?
It is recommended that you have your septic tank pumped out every three to five years as a general guideline, although this varies widely depending on how often you use your system. With the proper treatment and maintenance plan for your household, you may extend the amount of time between pump outs by many years. Regular inspections are required in most states, however these inspections do not necessarily result in a pump out being performed. You will not be able to escape mandatory inspections, but by following the best practices outlined in this article, you can lessen the frequency with which your septic tank needs to be pumped.
Why do you have to empty your septic tank?
Septic tanks are meant to retain waste for long periods of time so that helpful bacteria may break it down and the garbage can be properly released. Despite the fact that the bacteria in your septic tank are quite powerful at breaking down waste, they are not always able to completely digest everything that goes into it. As a result, the minute amounts of waste that stay in your tank accumulate over time, becoming what is known as sludge. After a while, the quantity of sludge in your tank will surpass the limits advised by the manufacturer, preventing your tank from performing at its optimal efficiency.
Failure to pump out your tank when it is full may be a costly error, as cleaning and maintenance fees can quickly accumulate and become prohibitively expensive.
Sludge contained within your tank includes all of the bacteria and enzymes that are required for the waste breakdown process to be successful.
As a result, it’s critical, and more cost-effective, to only empty your tank when absolutely necessary, and to restore and activate your system once you’ve had it drained and cleaned.
What affects your septic tank pump out frequency?
It goes without saying that one of the most crucial factors that determine how often you have to empty your septic tank is the maintenance or treatment regimen that you follow. If you maintain a consistent treatment regimen, you can extend the time between pump outs by many years. Several of our clients have had their pump outs extended for more than ten years.
2. Number of people in your household
Maintaining and treating your septic tank on a regular basis is one of the most essential factors that determine how often you must empty it. Regular treatment can extend the time between pump outs by many years if done correctly. Our clients have had their pump outs prolonged for more than ten years at a time!
3. Size of your septic tank
The lower the capacity of your septic tank, the faster it will fill up. Although this is true, it does not imply that you should spend thousands of dollars on a larger tank if you are pumping out your tank on a regular basis. Adopting a treatment plan that includes a dosage that is tailored to your tank’s needs is far more cost-effective and considerably simpler.
4. What goes into your septic tank
In general, the more cautious you are with what you send down the drain and into your septic system, the less frequently you will need to have it pumped out. It is not recommended to flush non-biodegradable materials down the toilet. These include things like wet wipes, sanitary products, condoms, dental floss, and diapers. Doing so can cause blockages that will need to be repaired. Use of harsh chemical-based cleaning agents in your septic tank will kill the microorganisms in your system, limiting its ability to break down waste and resulting in more frequent pump outs.
What can you do to reduce how often you pump out your septic?
A basic, low-cost septic treatment plan will minimize the frequency of pump outs while also extending the life of your system by many years. Implement a treatment plan that is tailored to your system, family size, and consumption habits to guarantee that you are getting the most out of your system and saving money.
2. Cut down on harsh chemical cleaners
Eliminating the usage of harsh chemical cleansers will have a significant influence on lowering the frequency with which your pump outs occur. It is recommended that you switch to septic smart cleaning products that promote the growth of your septic bacteria rather than eliminating them to maintain your system working smoothly and properly.
3. Don’t put rubbish into your system
Instead of treating garbage in general, septic systems are designed to treat wastewater. Any waste that is flushed down your pipes and into your septic tank has the potential to clog the system, necessitating the need for maintenance or repairs.
How to tell if your septic tank needs to be pumped out
You should be aware of several early warning signals that your septic tank may require pumping out. However, while these are signs that you may require a pump out, they might also be caused by other problems such as obstructions or low bacterial populations. For further information, please see our articleHow to detect whether your septic tank needs to be pumped out.
- Smells
- Excessive green grass
- Toilets or drains backing up
- Pooling water
- Slow drainage
You may reach out to our wastewater specialists for an expert diagnostic that can be completed over the phone in minutes if you’re experiencing problems with your septic, AWTS, or greywater system. We have been using the product in our septic system for more than 15 years. We have only had our system pumped out once during that time period, and the pumping company stated that our system was the cleanest they had ever seen. Gerry Kelly is a well-known Irish actor. It’s fantastic, and I use it to clean everything.
Michelle Wright is a writer who lives in the United States.
Since we began using the product 12 years ago, we have had no problems and have not had to pump out any of the water in the systems.
Bryant Ham is a fictional character created by author Bryant Ham.
Provides the solution that we desire in a timely and straightforward manner. There is no mess, no trouble, and no smell; in fact, the odour from our grease trap is completely eliminated. It has been a decade or more since our system has been pumped. Larry Greetham is a well-known actor.
What our customers are saying on Google
- Get in contact with our wastewater specialists for a professional diagnostic over the phone in minutes if you’re experiencing problems with your septic, AWTS, or graywater system. After utilizing the product in our septic system for over 15 years, we had our system pumped out just once during that time period, and the pumping company stated that our system was the cleanest they had ever seen. Gerry Kelly is a well-known Irish actor and musician. It’s fantastic, and I use it to clean almost anything. The fact that we have only pumped out once in 11 years is because we were assured it was so good for us by the manufacturers. Michele Wright is a writer and actress who lives in the United Kingdom. The EcoCare system is used to treat two septic systems on our property. Since we began using the product 12 years ago, we have had no problems and have not had to pump out any of the water in the system. The stuff is fantastic. Bryant Ham is a fictional character created by author Bryant Ham in the fictional world of The Hunger Games (2001). Obtains the desired outcome in a timely and straightforward manner. There is no mess, no trouble, and no smell
- In fact, the scent from our grease trap is completely eliminated. It has been a decade or more since our system has been pumped out. Larry Greetham is a well-known author and speaker.
Get in contact with our wastewater specialists for a professional diagnostic over the phone in minutes if you’re experiencing problems with your septic, AWTS, or greywater system. We have been using the product in our septic system for more than 15 years. We have only had our system pumped out once during that time period, and the pumping crew said that our system was the cleanest they had ever seen. Gerry Kelly is a professional golfer. I adore it and use it to clean everything. The fact that we have only pumped out once in 11 years is because we were taught it was so healthful.
EcoCare is used on both of our septic systems, which are both treated with it.
This is an outstanding product.
Obtains the desired outcome in a timely and straightforward manner.
Our system hasn’t been pumped in at least a decade.
