If the plumbing system of your house is installed to a septic tank, it’s extremely important for the tank to undergo regular maintenance. Leaving the tank to deteriorate can lead to catastrophic results such as drainfield flooding, blockages and backups.
The most important method to do maintenance is routinary septic tank pumping.
The Importance of Septic Tank Pumping
The most conventional design of a septic tank is that it has a first compartment where solid waste is accumulated. The waste then settles at the bottom part and forms sludge. This is where the bacteria will break down most of the wastes. However, not all materials are broken. That’s why regular pumping should always be observed.
Failure to remove septic tank sludge can lead to its accumulation, hence, causing an overflow to the drainfield. If still ignored, the drainfield will result in plugging and lastly, it will totally malfunction. This would mean a very expensive repair to restore the system and have the septic tank running again.
For your peace of mind, it’s always best to do septic tank pumping on a regular basis according to the best commercial plumbing companies Sydney wide. But how regular should the pumping be? How often should this be done?
Septic Tank Pumping Frequency
Generally, septic tank pumping is recommended every three to five years. But there are factors that it should be done more often. These factors include:
- There are several household members contributing to a large amount of wastewater.
- The septic tank is small in size with low storage capacity.
- Laundry is done frequently.
- Garbage disposal is used to send solid wastes to the septic tank.
If you think that frequent pumping is burdensome on your part, no worries, there are methods to reduce the frequency. These methods include:
- Install toilets, faucets and showerheads that are low-flow.
- Use a washing machine that can conserve water and is highly efficient.
- Have faucet leaks and running toilets repaired right away.
- Use only mild cleaners. Don’t use products that kill those important microorganisms inside the septic tank.
Signs That Emergency Septic Pumping Should Be Done As Soon As Possible
The most common sign that you’re experiencing a septic tank emergency is when the drainfield is starting to flood. There’s a warning though – if the drainfield has standing water, don’t ever do pumping. Wait until the flood has been resolved. Otherwise, emptying the tank can result in floating in the water and this can result in broken pipes.
You can always prevent flooding in the drainfield by monitoring for any signs that indicate an almost full septic tank. These signs can include gurgling sounds from the pipes, slow drains, foul odours on the drainfield especially after a heavy rain, and water that is backed up down the basement.