How Much Does It Cost To Pump An Aerobic Septic Tank? (TOP 5 Tips)

On average, it costs $410 to clean or pump a septic tank. Most homeowners spend between $287 and $545. It’s possible for extremely large tanks to run $1,000 or more. Most tanks need pumping every 3 to 5 years with inspections every 1 to 3 years.

When coming up with the maintenance expenses for your aerobic septic system, you first have to consider pumping costs. Pumping the tank included in your septic system will cost $200. Now, the key thing to note here is the frequency of the pumping.

How much does it cost to pump an aerobic septic system?

An aerobic septic system has an average cost between $10,000 and $20,000. You need to have the system professionally inspected and pumped every one to three years, which has an average cost of $200. Aerobic systems may need motor & timer replacements from time to time.

How often should I pump my aerobic septic?

How Often Should My Aerobic System Be Pumped? There are many variables that affect how often your system needs to be pumped. This is determined by the usage of your system, and the number of people living in your home, we suggest that your system be pumped every three to five years.

What are the signs that 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?

How long can a septic tank go without being pumped?

You can wait up to 10 years to drain your tank provided that you live alone and do not use the septic system often. You may feel like you can pump your septic tank waste less frequently to save money, but it’ll be difficult for you to know if the tank is working properly.

Which is better aerobic or anaerobic septic systems?

Anaerobic Bacteria. Aerobic bacterial colonies are generally regarded as better for on-site wastewater treatment. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, aerobic bacteria are less susceptible to household chemicals than anaerobic bacteria.

How do you maintain an aerobic septic system?

Here are the dos:

Regularly Inspect Your Septic System.
Pump Out Whenever Necessary.
Be Water-wise.

Use Licensed, Certified Companies.
Flush Solids Down the Drains.
Pour Harsh Chemicals in Your Toilets.

Park Cars or Trucks on Your Drainfield or Reserve Area.
Add Septic Tank Additives.

Should I use Ridex in my aerobic septic system?

Rid-X is full of helpful bacteria and enzymes that work to break down things like toilet paper and grease. These enzymes will not hurt your aerobic septic system. These enzymes will not hurt your aerobic septic system.

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.

How long does it take to pump a septic tank?

How long does it take to pump a septic tank? A septic tank between 1,000 – 1,250 gallons in size generally takes around 20-30 minutes to empty. A larger tank (1,500 – 2,000 gallons) will take about twice as long, between 45-60 minutes.

How do I check my septic tanks sludge level?

To measure the sludge layer:

Slowly lower the tube into the septic tank until it touches the bottom of the tank.
As the device is slowly pulled out of the water, the check valve closes capturing a liquid/solid profile of the septic tank water. The thickness of the sludge layer can be measured.

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!

Can you get your septic pumped in the winter?

Winter is really the only season we don’t recommend pumping septic systems. Unfortunately, frozen ground, heavy snow, and slippery ice can make it extremely difficult for even our skilled technicians to properly dig up and securely cover the septic tank.

Is Ridex good for septic tanks?

How additives, like Rid-x, interfere with your septic system’s eco-system. According to the EPA and the Ohio Department of Health, not only are additives like Rid-X not recommended, but they actually have a detrimental and potentially hazardous effect on your septic system’s waste treatment process.

How much does it cost to pump a 1000 gallon septic tank?

The typical costs for septic pumping are as follows: National average cost for a septic tank pump out: $295-$610. Up to 750-gallon tank: $175-$300. Up to 1,000-gallon tank: $225 -$400.

Cost of an Aerobic vs Anaerobic Septic System (2022)

Because aerobic septic systems are rather complex systems, the average cost of an aerobic septic system is between $10,000 and $20,000. The less complex anaerobic septic system has an average cost of between $2,000 and $5,000 on a per-unit basis.

City or State	Zip Code	Average Price Paid
Boston, MA	02108	$7,787
New York City	10001	$6,275
Philadelphia, PA	19019	$11,878
Massachusetts	Statewide	$6,487
North Carolina	Statewide	$3,511
New Hampshire	Statewide	$9,325

Aerobic Septic System Costs

aerobic septic systems require aerobic bacteria (bacteria that prefer oxygen) as well as an air pump to properly oxygenate the septic tank and aid in waste breakdown and decomposition. The cost of an aerobic system varies based on the size of the system, the soil conditions, and your location; nonetheless, aerobic systems are more intricate than their anaerobic counterparts and thus cost more.

Site assessments and permissions typically cost between $200 and $400
However, there are exceptions. An aerobic septic system typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000

However, some systems can be as little as $5,000. Every one to three years, you should have the system properly examined and pumped, which will cost you an average of $200. It is possible that aerobic systems will require motortimer replacements from time to time. Motor replacements cost on average between $500 and $600, while timers cost on average $100.

Anaerobic Septic System Costs

When it comes to waste breakdown, anaerobic septic systems rely on the presence of anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that abhor oxygen). The cost of these systems varies depending on their size, where you live, and the soil conditions.

The majority of municipalities require a permit for the installation of a septic system, which can cost anywhere between $250 and $1,000 depending on your region. An anaerobic septic system typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000 to install and maintain. In places with higher labor rates and material costs, prices may climb to between $4,000 and $15,000

Nevertheless, prices in other areas may remain stable. Septic tanks, on average, cost between $500 and $1,800 depending on the size of the tank
However, there are some exceptions. In general, the cost of piping and related supplies is between $100 and $200. Every one to three years, the system will need to be examined, which will cost on average between $200 and $600 every inspection. Pumping costs on average between $200 and $400
However, some companies charge more.

Labor Costs to Install a Septic System

In many cases, the installation expenses for septic systems are as costly as, if not larger than, the cost of the system itself.

The cost of installing a septic system is between $1,500 and $4,000 on average.

Although you may be tempted to install the system yourself in order to save money, working with a professional is the most effective approach to ensure that the task is done correctly the first time. Tanks that are not correctly installed might leak and pollute the water supply, resulting in considerable harm and expensive repairs to the environment. Keep in mind that while looking for an installer, price should not be the only factor to take into consideration. Although the lowest bidder’s price may be appealing, that does not always imply that he or she is the most qualified candidate for the job.

It is a good idea to question others about their experiences working with an installation in order to get a sense of the type of work they will accomplish for you in the future.

Pros and Cons of Aerobic Septic Systems

Three different tanks are used in aerobic systems. Aerators circulate bubbles of oxygen through the waste when it enters the first tank and settles into layers. Waste then flows into the second tank (the treatment tank), where it is further treated. This is the point at which the aerobic bacterium eats the organic components. After that, it is transferred to a pump tank for final treatment. There are advantages and disadvantages to using aerobic septic systems.

Aerobic Septic System Pros

Designs: Aerobic septic systems are available in a variety of configurations to provide for the most optimal installation for your home. Pollution reduction: Aerobic systems, when compared to anaerobic systems, create less groundwater contamination since they require several treatments. Aerobic septic systems take up very little area and are thus very cost-effective. There are also instances in which they are the only viable alternative due to a lack of accessible space.

Aerobic Septic System Cons

Cost:Aerobic systems are significantly more expensive than anaerobic septic systems, typically costing two to three times as much. Over time, aerobic septic tanks will require more care than traditional septic tanks do. When the system is ignored, the quality of the therapy suffers. Failure to properly maintain a system may potentially result in the failure of the entire unit. Weather conditions: If the temperature in an aerobic septic system drops too low, the quality of the treatment suffers as a result.

Pros and Cons of Anaerobic Septic Systems

Anaerobic septic systems are less complex than their aerobic counterparts, consisting of a septic tank and two main pipes, one of which is connected to the home and the other which is connected to the yard. From the main pipe, a number of smaller pipes branch off, each of which sits just below the surface of the lawn. Anaerobic microorganisms consume the waste that has accumulated in the tank.

Water waste rises to the surface, flows through smaller pipelines beneath the earth’s surface, and ultimately filters out into the surrounding soil (Figure 1). It is possible to have both advantages and downsides while using these systems.

Anaerobic Septic System Pros

Availability: Anaerobic systems are more frequent than aerobic systems, and they are generally more easily available than aerobic systems. Cost: These systems are far less expensive than aerobic systems, which is partially owing to the fact that they are considerably simpler. Anaerobic septic systems are environmentally beneficial since they do not require the use of chemicals or electricity to treat the water.

Anaerobic Septic System Cons

Pumping: Because anaerobic systems have fewer tanks, they frequently require more pumping than aerobic systems. When it comes to resale value, many prospective home buyers have never lived in homes that have been equipped with a septic tank, which might make it harder to sell your property. Solid waste: Anaerobic septic tanks, which have only one tank and a pipe system, are more sensitive to solid waste than aerobic septic tanks.

Choosing a Septic System

The decision between aerobic and anaerobic septic systems is typically a matter of personal preference. Examine your answers to the following questions:

What is the size of my budget? • If you have a tight budget, it’s usually best to go with a standard anaerobic system. • What is the size of my property? – An aerobic system may be required for extremely tiny lots, which will need you to spend the extra money. What is the significance of environmental impact? For those who are concerned about the environment, an aerobic system may be worth the additional expense because the effluent it generates is far cleaner. If protecting the environment is not a top priority for you, an anaerobic system may be the best option for you. What are the applicable legislation in the area? • Does your city or municipality have any restrictions on the installation of aerobic systems in residential properties? If this is the case, the decision has already been made for you. Is it possible for me to adhere to a maintenance schedule? – Aerobic systems may be more efficient and longer-lasting than conventional systems, but those advantages might be lost if you do not adhere to a regular maintenance plan. Aerobic systems demand more care than anaerobic systems, so if you’re the sort of person who forgets to get an oil change or arrange a dental visit on time, think again.

Choosing a Contractor

In your location, a fast Google search should show up several options for septic service providers. However, not all of them are identical, and you shouldn’t just choose one at random. Here are a few pointers:

Inquire about recommendations. If you have a septic system, there is a good possibility that your neighbors have as well. Discover who they utilized and whether or not they were satisfied with the service. Alternatively, you might contact your local wastewater management authority or a comparable organization. Request estimates from various contractors to evaluate pricing, but don’t make your final decision based only on price. Remove any quotations that appear suspiciously high – or low – in any direction. Check to see that any firm you engage is licensed, bonded, and insured before you hire them. Insist on seeing proof. A firm that is bonded but does not complete the task may be able to file a claim against the bond to recover the money you’ve spent, or you may be able to have someone else do the job at no further cost. Insurance is essential because, if you do not have it, you may be held financially accountable for incidents that happen on your property.

References:

Septic 101: Aerobic vs anaerobic bacteria

Septic Systems: What Are the Differences Between Aerobic and Anaerobic Systems? Exactly how often should I pump out my septic tank is up to you. It is your responsibility to maintain your septic system.

Find Local Septic Pros Who Will Compete for Your Business

POSTING a QUESTION or COMMENT concerning failures or difficulties with aerobic septic systems is highly encouraged.

InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. Failure rates for aerobic septic systems or aerobic treatment units (ATUs) are high. Repair expenses: This page examines the failure rates and costs of aerobic septic systems. For this topic, we also have anARTICLE INDEX available, or you may check the top or bottom of the page. Use the SEARCH BOX to discover the information you’re looking for quickly.

The design, characteristics, inspection, repair, and maintenance of aerobic septic systems are all discussed.

Aerobic Septic System Regular Operating Costs

In this section, we will cover the typical running costs of an aerobic septic unit, also known as an ATU, omitting maintenance and repair charges. The following are included in the ATU’s running costs:

In order to keep your aerator pump running (see here for more information), you will need to pay an electric bill of between $25 and $250 each year, depending on your location. The cost of power to operate the ATU effluent pump is also between $25 and $250 per year, depending on your location’s electricity prices

And Regular supplies for an aerobic septic system, such as filters (which are utilized on certain systems) and chlorine tablets (which are detailed separately atAEROBIC Septic System Disinfection) According to industry standards, yearly costs for Aerobic Septic supplies, which include disinfection tablets and the replacement of septic effluent filters, range from $200 to $300 per year. Regular inspection and maintenance expenses for an aerobic septic system are also included in the system’s overall cost, which is discussed in more detail atAEROBIC SEPTIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE COSTS. Where we provide a table of all Aerobic system costs
In addition to inspections and periodic filter changes, you’ll want to include in the cost of pumping the septic tank on a regular basis. Most of the time, the cost of minor repairs and filter replacements is included in the price for regular maintenance aerobic system inspections. Septic tank pumping (which is not an annual expense) is usually necessary after an aerobic septic inspection, which costs between $200 and $800 each year depending on where you reside and the quality of service you require.

The following are some average septic system regular running expenses based on data from multiple septic system maintenance companies as well as data from septic authorities in several states around the United States.

Schedule of Aerobic Septic System RegularOperatingCostsper Year

Level of Aerobic Maintenance Plan Services	Annual Cost	Notes
Septic system disinfectant costs	$200 – $300	If not part of your aerobic septic maintenance contractSeeAEROBIC Septic System Disinfection
Septic outlet effluent filter cartridge	$5 – $8. (annualized)*.	If your system uses an effluent filter to protect the effluent pumping station, and if not part of the maintenance contract* Assuming a typical septic tank filter life of 3-5 years, we annualized the typical filter cost of $20 – $30. by dividing by 4See SEPTIC FILTER / GRAYWATER FILTER SOURCESSeeAEROBIC SEPTICFILTER CLOGGING
Electricity costs for aerator pump	$10-$25 – $200*	Aerating pump * AtAEROBIC ATU SEPTIC OPERATING COSTSyou’ll see that pump costs can be $10-25 / month, not per year, depending on electrical rates where you live.
Electricity costs for effluent pump	$4 – $10 – $100*	Pump for effluent discharge or spraying; electrical costs vary by area. The effluent pump does not run continuously and is instead operated by a timer (dosing systems) or by a float that responds to effluent level in the effluent chamber of the aerobic septic tank.

Notes to the table above

These are the monthly running costs for an aerobic septic system on a regular basis. Keep an eye out for: The total cost of operating and maintaining an aerobic septic system must include the costs of aerobic septic system maintenance inspections, minor repairs, and periodic septic tank pumping in addition to the costs listed above. Those are described in depth to provide a comprehensive cost picture at COSTS OF MAINTENANCE FOR AN AEROBIC SEPTIC SYSTEM Don’t forget to do aerobic septic system maintenance checks on a regular basis; failing to properly inspect and maintain aerobic septic systems is identified by experts as the most common cause of costly aerobic septic system failures.

How to Compare Actual with Calculated Septic Pump Operating Cost

In Massachusetts, my aerobic septic system pump consumes around 40 dollars in power each month. Is this usual behavior?

On 2020-01-18by (mod) – What’s theoperating cost of an aerobic septic pump?

Thank you, Abe, for posing such a thought-provoking question: An aerobic septic pump’s expected annual running costs are as follows: As an example, the Medo Piston LA-80BN Septic Air Pump has the following specifications: 120VAC, 60 Hz, 1.4A, 86 Watts, and is manufactured by Medo Piston. As a result, the pump will consume 86 watts while operating constantly (as do most aerobic pumps run continuously). That equates to 86 watts per hour (less than running a 100W light bulb).

How to Calculate Septic Pump Operating Cost

The cost of operating a septic pump may be calculated, and if you have monitoring equipment, it may even be possible to quantify it.

Pump operation costs are calculated as follows: KWH/month x KWH of pump operation The following are the stages involved in the computation.

Calculate Monthly kWatt Hours or KWH for your pump

Daily electricity consumption is calculated as follows: 86 Watts per hour multiplied by 24 hours per day equals 2,064 Watt-hours per day. Monthly operational power consumption is calculated as follows: 30 x 2,064 = 61,920 watt hours/month or 61,920/1000 = around 62 Kwh per month.

Convert Watt-Hours to electricity cost for your state or province

In this particular instance, Massachusetts Remember that we compute the total number of watt-hours consumed by your pump and divide that figure by 1000 to get Kilowatt hours, or Kwh – since Kwh is the unit of measurement used to describe energy tariffs. Monthly Pump Operating Cost C$ = Kwh hours/month x $ cost per Kwatt-hour 62Kwh x $0.2257kWh = $13.99 or around $14./month, or approximately 14×12 = approximately $170./year, depending on your location’s energy prices. Monthly Pump Operating Cost C$ Comparing the actual pump electrical use and cost to the pump’s label data is important.

Why is Your Pump Costing More than it Should to Run?

I believe one or more of the following to be true:

You are using more than one aerobic pump (the aerator), maybe two aerobic pumps (the aerator and the effluent distribution pump), which increases your power consumption. Please check the label on your pump and provide me with the information about its power consumption rate in watts, which is higher than mine. Your actual power tariff in your area is greater than the one I used

Thus, Your pump or control is faulty, for example, because it has a broken bearing or another condition that causes it to draw an excessive amount of current

SO Consider measuring or having an expert measure or type out the actual current draw or AMPS on your aerobic septic system circuit (so that you are not shocked or killed) and comparing that to the motor data label for RLA in addition to looking at the label on your pump and sending it to me in a photo or by typing out the data for me (Running Load Amps) A problem with the pump may exist if the actual operational current draw is more than the required minimum current.

Our discussion at the pump label data to kWh or horsepower conversion is as follows: CIRCUIT WIRE SIZE FOR AN ELECTRIC MOTOR HORSEPOWER When it comes to TIGHT or SEIZED AC COMPRESSORS, specifics on the electric motor current draw, data tag decoding of locked rotor amp ratings, as well as LRA and RLA data tables are provided.

If the motor is driving the maximum load that it is capable of, it will operate at RLA.

Residential Electricity Rates in Massachusetts

Massachusetts might be expensive when it comes to the cost per kilowatt hour (kWh). Electricity was 22.57 cents per kWh on average in the residential sector as of January 2019, according to the National Electricity Pricing Authority. Massachusetts has the third highest rate of unemployment in the country, according to this statistic. – This page was last modified on October 18, 2020. source at the time of publication: If you’re looking for a new aerobic pump, look no further. When treating an aerobic system as a typical septic, it is doubtful that you would be able to simply switch off the aerator since the amount of treatment and disposal of effluent would be inadequate.

Reader CommentsQ A

(15th of June, 2014) Gene stated:It is my understanding that the sludge tank function in a three-tank aerobic system (sludge, aerator, and pump) is the same as it is in a conventional system (drain field).

I believe that using a rid x type product on a monthly basis would be beneficial to include in order to prevent sludge buildup and increase pumping intervals. Do you agree or disagree?

Reply: do not use additives or treatment in septic systems

With the exception of specially-engineered aerobic treatment septic systems for which the designer and manufacturer specify that a specific chemical is required, such as disinfectants (seeAEROBIC SEPTIC DISINFECTANTS – Calcium Hypochlorite), eptic treatment additives are unnecessary, do not improve the system’s function, and in some cases can damage the system (for example, by breaking up and sending solids out into the absorption system), and the use of at least some such products is currently prohibited More information may be found atSEPTIC TREATMENTSCHEMICALS.

Continue reading atTHE COST OF MAINTENANCE FOR AN AEROBIC SEPTIC SYSTEM Select a topic from the closely-related articles listed below, or browse the entireARTICLE INDEX for more information.

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OPERATING COSTS FOR AEROBIC ATU SEPTIC SYSTEMSatInspect An online encyclopedia of building environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, and issue preventive information is available at Apedia.com. Alternatively, have a look at this.

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Citations can be shown or hidden by selecting Show or Hide Citations. InspectApedia.com is a publisher that provides references. Daniel Friedman is an American journalist and author.

Aerobic (ATU) Septic System Maintenance & Repair Costs

Send in your question or comment about how to manage aerobic septic systems, often known as ATUs.

InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. The following are the expenses of maintaining and cleaning an aerobic septic system: An informal survey of septic system maintenance companies in several U.S. states, including Florida, Texas, and Montana, was used to compile annual or monthly costs for typical on-site inspection and maintenance of aerobic septic system units (ASUs) or onsite septic system facilities (OSSFs) in the United States.

The design, characteristics, inspection, repair, and maintenance of aerobic septic systems are all discussed.

There is also a list of product sources. For this topic, we also have anARTICLE INDEX available, or you may check the top or bottom of the page. Use the SEARCH BOX to discover the information you’re looking for quickly.

Aerobic Septic System MaintenanceRepair Costs

The majority of aerobic septic system owners purchase an aerobic septic system or on-site sewage facility maintenance contract, which covers routine maintenance, routine repairs, and replacement of mechanical parts such as a failed pump or control, as well as the installation of new mechanical parts. When you speak with septic repair firms, you should attempt to collect at least three quotations, and you should inquire about the company’s service history and experience before making a decision.

Reader Question: cost for aerobic septic system maintenancerepairs

(Apr 19, 2015) The date is. Gregg Edelmann expressed himself as follows: We are considering acquiring a 5-acre parcel of land that has an aerobic septic system installed. How much should we anticipate to spend for routine maintenance services on a monthly basis? I’m simply looking for a ballpark to get a sense of proportion. Thanks!

Reply:

In fact, the Texas Health and Safety Code 366.0515 mandates the use of a septic system maintenance contract in various states in the United States, including Texas. The producer of septic systems must also ensure that their system is being properly maintained, according to the requirements of that state. Under the law, it is necessary for the on-site septic facility expert (OSSF) to be properly qualified and certified, and she or he must conduct (at least) three site visits per year to examine the septic system’s condition.

I’ve examined expert research, and the most typical reason for septic system failures, and hence for environmental pollution as well as possible in-home sewage backups, is a failure to execute adequate system maintenance, according to the studies.

The cost will differ depending on where you are.