Septic tanks can hold several thousand gallons of waste, but every tank will need pumping to remove buildup. The frequency with which pumping is needed depends on tank size, waste volume, and household size, among other factors. Here, we'll list a few signs that it's time to pump your tank.
It's Been A While Since the Tank Has Been Pumped
According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), home septic tanks need pumping roughly every five years. Regular pumping keeps tanks from filling up, which decreases the risk of plumbing problems. If your household is large or the tank is small, you may find that you're in need of septic pumping more often. Septic system specialists will inspect your tank and set a pumping schedule.
Drains Work Slowly
Drains usually move fast, but a slow-moving drain may point to a full tank. If an inspection reveals no plumbing issues and a plunger doesn't move things along, call our septic tank experts.
Standing Water
When septic tanks fill up, waste water may flow into areas near the drain field. If it hasn't rained in the last few days and there's standing water in the area above your septic system, it means that it's time to pump the tank. Call or click to schedule septic tank cleaning or pumping services immediately.
A Lush Lawn
Sewage water is smelly, but it's also full of nutrients that plants love. When a septic tank overflows into the surrounding soil, the vegetation in that area will have access to those nutrients—and you'll see lush, green grass where the leak originates.
Foul Odors
Septic tanks hold all the solid and liquid waste that goes down the drain, including water from showers, laundry rooms, and kitchens. If your tank is full, the smell of waste will be more noticeable. If there's a foul odor coming from your drains, consider scheduling a septic tank cleaning.
Pipe Noises
When your septic tank is full, you may hear sloshing and gurgling noises when flushing the toilet or pouring liquid down the drain. While other issues sometimes create pipe noise, the problem is usually due to an overfilled tank.
Nitrates in Well Water
If you're using a septic tank, you likely have a well. If your well water is full of nitrates, it may indicate the need for septic tank service. A full tank causes nitrates and bacteria to soak into nearby soil and well water. A simple test will determine the presence of nitrates in well water and the need for tank pumping. Contact us to schedule service.
Backups
The last sign on our list is one of the most obvious. When a septic tank cannot hold one more drop, there's nowhere for waste to go but up the drainpipe. Sewage backups are a worst-case scenario that only arises after the other signs on this list have been ignored. Not only are sewage backups messy and foul, but they also present health hazards. Keep your family safe and your home smelling fresh by scheduling septic tank pumping services.
Prevent Problems By Pumping Your Septic Tank Regularly
If you've seen one or more of these signs, prompt action will prevent major septic problems. Learn more about our services by filling out our online contact form or call to get your septic tank pumped today.