How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

Pumping is one of the most fundamental things a homeowner can do to keep their septic tank functioning properly. Septic tanks need to be pumped regularly, as they operate on a house-by-house system instead of as part of a larger sewer system. They’re usually installed in areas where municipal sewer lines aren’t available. The capacity of the tank is based on the size of the home and the number of wastewater points in the house, including the bathtubs, showers, toilets, sinks and washing machines. Regular pumping can even help the septic system last longer.

Unfortunately, an alarm doesn’t go off once the tank approaches its limit. Homeowners must proactively schedule septic tank cleaning in Strafford County, NH to avoid a major disaster. So, how often should the septic tank be pumped? Let’s find out.

The answer? It varies

Generally, most septic tanks should be pumped every one to three years. This is a safe place from which to start. However, the actual frequency will vary depending on usage and the number of people living in the household. Larger households will need to pump their tank much more frequently than single people or couples. A one-person household could go more than 10 years between pumping, while a family of five generally can’t go more than two years. You’ll also need to factor in the age of the system, tank size and any seasonal usage changes. A septic technician can give you a better idea by evaluating the condition of the tank and your usage before developing a more exact recommendation for septic tank cleaning in Strafford County, NH.

Why does the tank need to be emptied?

Septic tanks are designed to divide the waste into three separate parts. All the solids sink to the bottom of the tank and form a thick sludge layer, while the liquids linger in the middle to form a water-based layer and oils rise to the top in a scum layer. This system works seamlessly until the tank accumulates enough solids that it can’t properly break them down. All the sludge sits trapped in the tank until it’s emptied. If the tank is too full, the pipes will become clogged and the sludge will leak out into the surrounding soil before it makes its way back to the surface. The sewage could even back up into the house.

The cost benefits of septic tank cleaning in Strafford County, NH

Paying to have your septic system pumped is much cheaper than the alternatives. Households dependent on a city sewer system spend an average of $400 to $700 per year. Pumping the septic tank usually costs less than half of that. Plus, it only needs to be done every few years. The infrequent cost is well worth it considering destroying the drain field with a backup could run you more than $5,000!

Ready to schedule septic tank cleaning? Contact B.H. Cameron Septic Services LLC today. One of our expert team members can help answer your questions and recommend the best care plan for your septic system.

Categorised in: Septic Tank Cleaning

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