If your home is on a septic system, it is okay to have questions or need clarification on how to maintain your tank. In fact, septic tank maintenance is critical to the successful and efficient operation of your plumbing. The most important component of your entire septic system is the septic tank. The septic tank is a large container buried near your home that collects sewage or wastewater and decomposes it through bacterial activity before draining. While your septic tank can do a lot on its own, you have some responsibility as a homeowner too. Here’s some common questions and answers about septic tank maintenance:
Why does the septic system need pumped out periodically?
A scheduled septic tank pumping is a critical maintenance task that must be performed every two years at a minimum. The frequency of septic pumping depends on the size of the tank and the number of members in your household. As the septic tank is used, solid sludge builds up at the bottom. Once the sludge level rises beyond a certain point, the sewage has less time to settle properly before leaving the tank. If a pumping is not performed, a septic backup can occur or the sewage could leak directly to the absorption area and drain field.
How do I know if my septic tank needs attention sooner than my scheduled pumping?
If your septic system is showing the following signs, call a professional promptly:
- Water surfacing or pooling on the ground
- Gurgling in the downstairs plumbing and toilets
- Poorly draining laundry tub
- Toilets and sinks draining slowly
- System backups
- Pump station alarm is going off
- Foul sewage odors inside the house or outside
Ready to schedule your septic tank pumping? Call Metro Septic. We offer all of the maintenance services your septic system needs for optimal, hassle-free performance. We can even replace an old septic tank with a newer, more efficient version if your tank is problematic or has extended its lifespan.