If your home or business is on a septic system, it is important to have it pumped out at regular intervals. One question that frequently arises is how often to have the tank pumped. The frequency of septic tank pumping depends on several factors but as a general rule, unless you see certain warning signs pumping your septic tank every three to five years should keep your septic tank working great.
Your septic tank is designed to accumulate solid waste and to allow liquid waste to flow out to the leech field where it percolates into the soil. The volume of solids that accumulates in the tank is reduced somewhat by the biological activity of enzymes that help with decomposition, but over time solid wastes will accumulate at the bottom of the tank. If too much solid waste accumulates in the tank, your septic system will be compromised.
Solid waste will flow into the leach field and clog up the pipes. To avoid this from happening, the accumulation of solids needs to be pumped out of the tank on a regular basis. One factor that affects the frequency of pump outs is the size of your septic tank. The larger your septic tank, the longer you can go between pump outs.
The other important factor is the volume of waste water from your home. The more people living in your home, the more often you need to have the septic tank pumped. Also, if you use a garbage disposal or frequently dispose of chemicals or other solid materials down the drain, your septic tank will need more frequent pumping.
