When Is The Right Time To Have Your Septic Tank Pumped?

If your home is equipped with a septic tank, then you'll need to have it pumped out by a professional at some point. Unfortunately, many homeowners don't have a clue as to when and how often it should be done. If you're one of those homeowners, then the following will help shed some light on the subject.

Factors that Affect Pumping Frequency

When it comes to determining how often you'll need to have your septic tank pumped out, there are three important criteria to consider:

  • The size of your septic tank - Smaller septic tanks require more frequent pumping than larger ones. Most septic tanks average between 750 and 1,500 gallons in capacity.
  • The number of occupants currently in your home - The more people that are inside your home on a day-to-day basis, the greater the septic tank usage and the sooner you'll need to have it pumped.
  • The estimated daily volume of wastewater - The amount of wastewater your family adds to the septic tank through ordinary activity can also influence how often your septic tank needs emptying.

Keep in mind that these aren't the only factors that affect pumping frequency. The age of your home's occupants can also influence septic tank use -- elderly occupants tend to use their septic systems less, while small children and teenagers place greater strain on the septic tank through increased usage. The overall health of your septic system can also play a role in pumping frequency.

Going By the Table

One way to quickly find out how often you'll need to pump your septic tank is by using a septic tank cleaning frequency table based on the above information. If your home has a 1,750-gallon septic tank, you can easily look up the appropriate pumping frequency based on your household's size.

Going By Sludge Levels

Another way to find out when it's time to pump your septic tank is by measuring the tank's sludge levels. You can do this by locating the access port for the tank's first chamber and inserting a long pole into the tank. The process is akin to checking the oil in your car, except a bit smellier. You should have your tank pumped out if the sludge left on the pole is more than a third of the tank's depth.

Going By Rule of Thumb

Many septic tank pumping contractors prefer to go by a general "rule of thumb" when it comes to pumping frequency. For instance, some contractors recommend septic tank pumping every 3 to 5 years, while others may recommend annual pumping. These fixed time schedules make it easier for homeowners to remember, but it could lead to overly frequent pumping, which could cost homeowners additional money in the long run.

For assistance, talk to a professional like Mr Bob.


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