When was the last time you had your septic tank pumped?
Most homeowners would not know also. When your septic tank works as it should, you shouldn’t notice anything unusual. After all, the tank beneath your house is there to collect waste away discreetly and efficiently.
But if you don’t get it pumped as scheduled, things can go bad fast. A blocked septic tank can spell catastrophe for your home.
So, how often should you do septic tank pumping? What should you look out for to know when it’s a good idea to call in the professionals?
This article lists seven signs you need to see to get your septic tank pumped.
1. Levels of Waste in Your Septic Tank
Your septic tank is set to handle a certain level of waste. If you start to notice that your septic tank is full or the level of waste is rising, it’s time to pump it out.
Ignoring the problem will only make it worse and can lead to costly repairs.
2. Frequent Backups or Clogs
If you experience frequent backups or clogs, it may be a sign that you need to have your septic tank pumped. When septic tanks aren’t pumped, the solid waste can build up and cause problems.
If you see that your toilets are backing up, your drains are slow, or you have standing water in your yard, it’s time to call a professional to pump your septic tank.
3. Unpleasant Odors Emanating From Your Home
If you smell unpleasant odors from your home, it could be a sign that you need to have your septic tank pumped. When a septic system is not working, it can often cause odors.
If you are noticing a sewage-like smell or any other type of foul odor, it is vital to have your system checked by a professional. Additionally, if your toilets are backing up or draining at a slow pace, this could also be a sign that your septic system needs pumping.
4. Lush Greens Around the Drainfield
Lush greens around the drainfield signify an overflowing septic tank spilling its contents into the drainfield.
If you see this, you should call a septic tank professional immediately to come and pump your tank.
5. Changes in Your Yard
You may need to have your septic tank pumped if you notice changes in your yard. The ground may be soggy, or wetlands may form.
You may also see sewage back up in your yard or notice an unpleasant odor. If you see any of these signs, you should call a septic company to have your tank pumped.
6. Gurgling Sounds in Your Drains
If your septic tank is making a gurgling noise, it’s a sign that you need to have it pumped. Sewage build-up in the tank causes the gurgling noise you hear. When the sewage level gets too high, it starts to gurgle.
If you hear a gurgling noise coming from your septic tank, don’t ignore it. Pumping the tank is the only way to eliminate the sewage and stop the gurgling noise.
7. Water Pooling
If there is water pooling around your septic tank, it is a sign that you need to have it pumped.
Pooling water can damage the tank and the surrounding area, so it is important to take care of this problem as soon as possible.
The Dangers of Not Septic Tank Pumping
Failure to pump your septic tank can lead to serious health hazards for you and your family.
Pollution of groundwater and even costly repairs to your septic system result from improper septic tank maintenance.
How Often Should You Do Septic Tank Pumping
How often you need to pump your septic tank depends on a few factors, including the size of your tank, the number of people in your household, and the amount of water you use.
A septic tank pumping company can help you determine how often you need to have your tank pumped.
When to Call a Septic Tank Service Company
If you live in an area with a septic tank, it is crucial to know when to call a septic tank service. If you notice any of the seven signs mentioned above, it is important to contact a septic tank service right away.
Pumping the septic tank will help to avoid any major problems and keep your home healthy and safe. These services provided by your septic tank company are invaluable and necessary, only professionals can do them.
Tips for Maintaining Your Septic Tank
Maintaining your septic tank is important to prevent these issues from happening. Some tips for maintaining your septic tank include having it pumped every three to five years, avoiding putting grease or harsh chemicals down your drains, and not planting trees or shrubs too close to your tank.
Following these tips can help keep your septic tank working for years to come.
Don’t Ignore the Signs: The Need for Septic Tank Maintenance
Over time, septic tanks fill up with solid waste that needs to be removed to prevent your system from backing up. Pumping your septic tank every three to five years is the best way to keep your system working.
Watch for signs that your tank needs pumping, such as slow drains, wet spots in your yard, or sewage odors.
If you see any of these signs, call a septic tank pumping company to have your system pumped.
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