How Often Should I Have My Septic Tank Pumped?

If you’re a homeowner in the United States, you likely rely on a septic system to treat and dispose of your household waste. Like any system in your home, septic systems can fail due to age, environmental factors, and other causes, so it is crucial to maintain your system to ensure its long lifespan properly. You will want your septic system to continue functioning as long as possible, and proper maintenance will help ensure that.

Eventually, your tank will fill with the by-product that results from the chemical reaction after your system breaks down waste. When too much sludge forms in your tank, it’s time to invest in a septic pumping service! The solution is to call our professionals at Sewer & Septic Specialists in Bloomington, IL at 217.855.5622. But the question remains: how often should you have your tank pumped? We can answer that, too.

How Often Should I Have My Septic Tank Pumped?

Many homeowners think they have to pump their septic tanks every year. They probably assume that the more their tank is cleaned, the better it will function. However, that is not the case. Ideally, septic tanks should only be pumped every three to five years, though that statistic depends on your specific system and how much you use it. The more frequently your system is used, the more it will need to be pumped because when your tank gets fuller, it will become less efficient. The most significant factor is the level of scum and sludge accumulating in your tank. A good guideline is that it is time to have your septic tank pumped if the sludge level is one foot at the tank’s bottom or if the scum reaches 6 inches thick at the tank’s top. You can measure the levels yourself or call our professionals to perform an inspection for you.

Is it Possible to Pump Too Often?

It is possible to pump your septic tank too often. Most homeowners who pay to have their tanks pumped every year are overspending! When you pump too often, there isn’t enough sludge buildup in the tank to keep it at a healthy level of good bacteria. Like your digestive system, your septic tank uses anaerobic digestion to break down waste naturally. Therefore, pumping at the proper intervals for your system is essential. Still, it does decrease the bacteria levels, and it can take 1-3 weeks for the levels of good bacteria to return to a healthy degree again. If you pump too often, the bacteria will have nowhere to go but into the drain field, which can cause clogs and system failure. In many cases, it’s best to leave your septic tank alone and allow it to do its job.

Benefits of Pumping Your Septic Tank Appropriately

Regular septic tank pumping is a vital component of proper system maintenance. It ensures your system continues to function adequately and efficiently while avoiding significant issues resulting in expensive and hazardous situations. The last thing any homeowner wants is an emergency problem with their septic system failing or overflowing into their home. If you want to avoid this and enjoy the other benefits of a healthy septic system, ensure your tank is cleaned and pumped appropriately. If you have any questions, contact our professionals at Sewer & Septic Specialist in Bloomington, IL. We’re here to help with our expert advice and septic services.