Pumping is the process of removing sludge from the bottom of the septic tank, and this needs to be done before the sludge builds up to a level where it blocks the outlet pipe through which liquids flow into the drain field.
WHEN TO HAVE YOUR SEPTIC TANK PUMPED
The EPA recommends a septic tank be inspected every two to three years. Systems that are undersized or see very heavy use may require pumping annually.
For most families pumping every 3 to 5 years is acceptable, but remember your septic system is a living system that needs proper maintenance to function like it should. Everything you flush down your toilet or send down your drain ends up there. Even the medications that you take can have a long-term effect on your system’s performance. The frequency with which this needs to be done depends on several factors:
- Size of household: Larger households, predictably, generate more waste, and thus fill up the septic tank faster.
- How much wastewater is generated: The sheer volume of wastewater flowing into the septic tank can affect how fast the septic tank fills up.
- The volume of solids in the wastewater: Households with many toilets, or who make frequent use of garbage disposals, tend to fill up the septic tank quicker.
- Septic tank size: Larger tanks can hold more solid sludge, and thus will need less frequent pumping.
If you use Western Septic, we’ll make sure to put you on our calendar for your regular cleaning so you don’t have to think about it!
With our comprehensive pumping services, you can count on a professional and complete performance. Services provided include complete pumping of tank contents, thorough tank inspection, septic tank health assessment including pH balance and sludge depth, affluent filter cleaning (if present), tank cleansing, and Enzyme system treatment.
If you have any questions about how to best maintain your system, please call and we will be happy to educate you to keep your system healthy.
Give us a call at 406-298-0650 or easily schedule an appointment online today!