Homes built in areas that do not have access to public sewer systems will typically use a septic system with a tank and drain field that handles waste coming out of the home. Maintaining the system with septic tank pumping and regular inspections can help preserve the system's life and ensure it works without problems for years.
Septic Tank Pumping
One commonly asked question with septic systems is how often septic tank pumping is required. The truth is, the interval between pumpings is not always the same, and there are things like the tank size, the usage, and the maintenance of the system that all affect how soon a tank will need pumping after it is installed the first time.
Some situations require existing septic tank pumping, but in most cases, the recommendation is every few years unless there is a problem inside the tank or house that indicates a full or clogged tank. If the tank is due for inspection, you will need a septic tank pumping service to clean it out first, but like pumping, the interval for inspections can change by the age, size, and use of the septic system.
Full Tank Indicators
There are some typical indications that the septic tank is full and needs attention. In most cases, you should not be waiting for these things to arise before pumping the tank, but if they do come up, you need to deal with them right away.
Water in your yard over the septic tank that has an odor is often an indication that the liquid from the tank is coming out the top of the tank. The condition will indicate the tank is full, there is no room for the liquid in the tank, or the tank outflow is clogged and the water is backing up and flooding your lawn. In both cases, a septic pumping service needs to come and remove the material from the tank so that a septic system contractor can check for issues in the tank.
In extreme cases, the septic system can back up into the home. The drains will not work correctly, and you may find that flushing a toilet or running the shower causes water to backflow into a sink or other drain. The situation often indicates that the tank outside is full, and nothing can flow into it. Septic tank pumping can relieve the condition, but this is also an excellent time to have the tank inspected to correct any issues causing the tank to fill too quickly.
In some cases, a full septic tank is just because it has filled over time. Still, the inspection process is essential every few years, so timing the inspection with the tank pumping ensures the inspector arrives to check the system with the tank is clean and empty. Pumping will allow a more accurate assessment to keep your system performing correctly a little easier.
Contact a company that offers septic tank pumping services for more information.