Co-Owner · September 3, 2016
Watch: How Often To Pump Your Septic - BBB Septic Solution- (479) 271-0058 - Northwest Arkansas
How often should you pump out your septic tank? Good question. The rule of thumb is usually every 2-5 years but who lives in your house and how you use water make a big difference.
When a septic tank is operating properly, solids are contained and accumulate and must be eventually pumped out. If the solids are not accumulating in the tank and are washing out into the leaching field, there is a problem with the system and the household is possibly using too much water.
The amount of solids that accumulates in the tank depends on the size of the household, the habits of the members of the household and the water usage. Every household is different. Having a professional check the sludge levels on a regular basis can help you gauge if the 2- 5 year schedule is good for your household or if more frequent pumping is needed.
Having your effluent filter checked for clogging can give you an idea of the maintenance needs of your system. The filter is designed to stop solids from entering the leaching field but how quickly is it filling up? If too quickly, you should review family and household water use habits.
The surest way to know when your tank needs pumping is to have it inspected regularly, including measuring the solids in the tank and the distribution box. With our maintenance plan, you get a regular report on how much solid buildup there is, along with a pumping recommendation.
Your best bet is to have someone check the system on a regular basis.
We have a maintenance program for your septic system, and our crew can help figure out what your pumping schedule should be.
Prevention is key to preventing a failed septic system.