Septic tanks are an important part of many residential septage systems. They are usually constructed from concrete or plastic, and collect septage and wastewater from the house. Septic tanks are usually installed where municipal sewer lines are not available, which means they most often serve rural homeowners or homes that were built before city sewer lines were laid in the area.
Since a septic tank can only hold a finite amount of septage, it’s common for homeowners to ask how often these tanks should be emptied. The answer: It varies. Read on to learn more from our Fayetteville septic company below.
When should a septic tank be emptied?
As a general rule, you should ideally empty out your septic tank once every three to five years. However, the actual frequency will vary depending on usage and how many people live in your household. A single person living alone in a house may be able to go ten years without having the tank pumped out, but a family of seven might have to pump every two years.
Why do I need to empty my septic tank regularly?
Obviously, the primary answer is “because it can’t hold an infinite amount of septage.” A more specific answer is that not pumping the septic tank will cause septage to back up into household drains, or bubble up from the ground around the septic tank and lateral field. It will also cause damage to the septic tank itself, which will require expensive repairs.
Schedule a Septic Tank Inspection Today
In order to avoid this nightmare situation, Eastern Septic recommends that you create a pumping schedule and add it to your digital calendar as a bi-yearly reminder. If you cannot remember the last time the pump was inspected and cleaned, call a septic tank company to do so as soon as possible. You might also ask your neighbors, especially those with similar-sized families, to learn how often they have had their tank emptied out.
Need a Septic Tank Company near Dunn NC, Fayetteville, Raleigh?
It is in your best interest to call a professional to pump out the septic tank rather than tackling it yourself. Our septic tank contractors are specifically trained to handle the waste safely and dispose of it at an approved processing facility. To schedule an appointment with Eastern Septic & Inspection, click here!