Regularly scheduled inspections and pump-outs are essential in the long-term care and function of a septic system. While improper use (i.e. allowing things to go down the drain that should not enter the system) is a common cause of septic tank failures, negating the responsibility of having a septic tank pumped regularly is also a huge cause of system failure. A septic tank is meant to handle only so much waste at a time and for a specific amount of time. Proper system maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowner, and by keeping maintenance as a priority homeowners can save money on costly repairs and promote the longevity of their septic systems.
Having the septic tank pumped every three to five years is one of the best ways to ensure that a septic system will last for its projected lifetime. The frequency of septic tank pumping will depend on the usage, number of people living in a home, and whether or not a garbage disposal is attached to the kitchen plumbing. Homes without a garbage disposal can typically go three to five years between pump-outs, while homes with a garbage disposal should have their tanks pumped every year.
Septic tanks need to be pumped so that the solid wastes inside of the tanks do not exceed a certain level. The bacteria that live inside a septic tank can only break down so much waste. After a few years, the waste will begin to override the capacity of the bacteria’s function to properly breakdown and dispose of it. Septic tank pumping will empty the tank of waste so that the bacteria can start over with the amount that they are required to handle.
Only licensed professionals should pump out a septic tank to ensure that it is done properly.
Posted on behalf of Bynum & Sons Plumbing, Inc.
