How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Pumped?

One of the most important parts of your home is usually the most overlooked, as well. I am talking about the septic tank. Homebuilders bury septic tanks somewhere in your yard, so they are out of sight and out of mind until there is a problem with it. Septic tank problems are usually not a minor situation, so it’s better to maintain your tank to reduce major problems down the road.

One of the most important ways to keep your septic tank in working order is regular inspections and pumping. How often should a septic tank be pumped? Experts recommend every three to five years.

This article will explain how your septic tank works and avoid septic tank issues by regularly pumping and inspecting your tank.

What Does Your Septic Tank Do?

A septic tank collects wastewater from your home, including water from your sinks and toilets. The tank is a massive concrete container that holds between 750 and 1,500 gallons. It acts as a holding pond that separates the various elements of wastewater.

Solid waste settles to the bottom of the tank, mostly liquid material stays in the middle, and greasy or oily substances rise to the top. Safe water that has filtered through the tank slowly exits into the ground through a series of pipes. But if the solid material in your tank is too extensive, it can clog up the drain pipes.

Why Pump Your Septic Tank?

Pumping out your septic tank removes the heavy solid waste that settles at the bottom. This prevents the tank pipes from clogging, or worse, the tank from overflowing into your yard. By regularly pumping the tank, you reduce the risk of septic tank problems and repairs.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Pumped?

A general rule is to inspect your septic tank should every three to five years to see if it needs to pumping. Smaller tanks may require more frequent inspections, but you can check larger tanks less often. It’s important to work with experienced plumbing and septic pumping professional to pump a septic tank and ensure you follow all EPA guidelines and local laws.

Keep it Clean

A septic tank does an extraordinary job of removing wastewater from your home, collecting it, and filtering out the organic matter before releasing clean water back into the ground. It’s essential to inspect your tank regularly for health and safety reasons and preserve your property value.

How often should a septic tank be pumped? Inspect smaller tanks every three years or so. Inspect and pump larger tanks every five years.

Make sure you work with an experienced plumber or septic service to inspect and pump your septic tank. Each city and state has specific rules about septic tank guidelines, and there are EPA guidelines to follow.

For more articles and advice on home improvement and maintenance, explore the rest of our site.