Septic pumping is a fundamental part of maintaining a septic
system. Schedule septic pumping to prolong the life expectancy of your septic
tank, prevent costly repairs and replacement, enhance the value of your home,
and keep your family safe and healthy.
Regrettably, many homeowners take too long until the time is
too late to pump their septic tanks, thus compromising the septic system and
their family's health. Learn more with these six FAQs about septic tank pumping
so you can schedule one confidently.
1. What Are the Signs You Need Septic Pumping?
A licensed service technician can help you determine when
you need to pump your septic tank. Nevertheless, several signs indicate you
need septic pumping, such as slow drains, bad odors in your home or yard, and
sewer backup. Also, if you notice lush grass above your septic tank or drainage
field, pump your tank or have a professional check it.
2. After How Long Should You Pump Your Septic Tank?
The frequency of septic tank pumping depends on various
factors, including sludge level, appropriateness of use, and amount of
wastewater. Experts recommend pumping your septic tanks every three to five
years. However, perform regular inspections and maintenance on your septic
system.
3. What Is the Cost of Septic Tank Pumping?
The cost depends on tank size, geographic location, tank
condition, and contractors. Also, the amount of sludge affects the cost of
pumping.
Homeowners can expect to pay between $295
and $610
for septic tank pumping. Depending on the septic tank size, you
can pay as little as $175 for a 750-gallon tank and as much as $600 for a 1,500-gallon
tank.
4. When Should You Not Pump Your Septic Tank?
Do not pump your septic tank if you experience one of the
following.
First, your home has flooded. Opening your septic tank for
pumping may welcome floodwater. Also, your tank may float, resulting in pipe
damage.
Second, you have a low sludge level. Typically, you should
pump your tank when the sludge level is a third of the tank capacity.
Third, you have an old or fragile tank. Since the tank may
collapse during pumping, you should liaise with a professional service
technician on the best line of action.
Lastly, avoid septic pumping if you have scheduled a septic
inspection in less than two weeks.
5. What If You Fail to Pump Your Septic Tank?
You may experience various problems ranging from blockages
to disease and expensive repairs. Wastewater backing in your home poses a huge
health risk. The bacteria in the raw sewage can cause diseases or leak into the
soil and contaminate underground water. Blocked septic systems can cause
substantial damage and a huge repair bill.
6. How Do You Maintain Your Septic Tank System After
Pumping?
You can take several actions after septic pumping to keep
your septic system in optimal condition, avoid costly damages, and guarantee
your family's safety and health.
Firstly, schedule routine inspection and maintenance.
Secondly, invest in water-efficient washing machines, showers, and toilets to
reduce the amount of wastewater your home generates.
Thirdly, avoid flushing hygiene products, wipes, diapers,
paper towels, cigarette butts, and grease. Fourthly, do not park or drive on
your septic tank or drainfield.
Fifthly, do not direct rain runoff water into your
drainfield. Lastly, keep off any products and chemicals that claim to clean
your septic tank; they often do more harm than good.
Contact Pete's
Outflow Technicians
for septic system pumping and maintenance in Santa Cruz
County and the San Mateo Coast. We offer great and personal service that only a
small family owned and operated business can provide.
