Septic Tank Maintenance

Why get your tank pumped and how often should you have it done?

When too much solid material accumulates in the tank over a period of years, it begins to wash out of the tank and into the drainfield with the normal liquid effluent. The solids clog the drainfield so that not as much effluent can be absorbed. As more solids flow from the tank the drainfield will eventually not be able to absorb the liquid effluent and the drainfield will have failed. This is the most common cause of drainfield failure.

Getting your septic tank pumped has been likened to having the oil changed in your car. You don't do that when your engine has failed and pumping your tank when the drainfield has failed will not fix the problem. It is suggested that you have your tank pumped every 2 to 4 years on a regular schedule.

The bacteria that thrive in a septic tank are called "anaerobic bacteria" because they do not require oxygen. These bacteria are essential to the proper functioning of a septic system as they degrade and decompose the solids. However, it is NOT necessary to introduce bacterial additives to your system, no matter what the advertisers say, and some additives may cause harm.

Pumping your tank after the drainfield has failed will offer only temporary relief until the tank fills up again. During repair of the drainfield the tank will need to be pumped so if that is required you will be throwing away the cost of the first pump-out.