What Happens During Septic Tank Pumping Services?
What Happens During Septic Tank Pumping Services?
You may already know the basics of how your septic system works: the solids settle at the bottom, oils and grease float to the top, and the liquid wastewater flows into the drainfield. What you might not know is that over time, that sludge (the solids) builds up and needs to be removed before it causes backups or a system failure. And that’s where septic tank pumping comes in. If you’re wondering if you need septic tank pumping services, here’s a closer look as to why and how it works.
Your Step-By Step Guide
Step 1: Locating and Accessing the Tank
Tanks are buried underground, so the crew first finds the access lids (covers). Septic tanks are buried underground for aesthetics, safety, and also protection from the elements. So when you arrange septic tank pumping, first of all your crew will need to find the access lids. These might be found 6-24 inches below the surface (the team might need to dig or use tools to find them). If you have a septic tank, you have the option of installing risers (vertical pipes that bring lids up to ground level), which will make the access much quicker and even cheaper. It’s also a good idea for you to mark where your lids are– or at least keep them uncovered– so that crews don’t waste unnecessary time finding them.
Step 2: Inspection Before Pumping
Your technician will then check the liquid levels in the tank. If they’re too high, it can signal a potential drainfield issue; that the liquid isn’t leaving the tank. If it’s too low, that can mean a possible leak or crack. They’ll then thoroughly review the condition of the parts that control flow. If these are broken, solids could then wash into the drainfield, causing clogs. They’ll also check the tank lids and walls for cracks or deterioration. Professional septic tank pumping services will not skip these parts; they’re crucial for preventing any hidden issues.
Step 3: Pumping Out the Tank
Now the pumping starts. Your team will bring in a large vacuum truck with hoses, which are then lowered into the tank to suction out sludge (the solids), scum (the oils and grease), and liquid. Wondering why the solids need to be removed? It’s because the solids don’t decompose quickly enough to stay in the tank for an indefinite period of time. Once they build up, they can overflow into the drainfield, causing very costly damage. The septic tank pumping process takes around 1-2 hours, obviously factoring in your septic tank’s size and the extent of the buildup.
Step 4: Cleaning and Rinsing
Once the majority of the solids have been vacuumed, your crew will use water to loosen any sludge that is stuck to the bottom, ensuring a complete, comprehensive cleaning. Getting the job done this thoroughly is important for both resetting the tank (so bacteria can keep breaking down new waste) and also for reducing odors.
Step 5: Final Inspection and Close-Up
Now that your tank is clean, the technicians will take another look to ensure that all parts of the septic tank are intact, that there are no cracks, and that the tank looks to be in general good condition. They can advise you if any other maintenance is necessary– such as repair or replacing any parts– and give you tips on how to care for your tank beyond septic tank pumping. Finally, they’ll replace the lids securely to prevent any leaks.
How to Prepare for Septic Tank Pumping
The best way to prepare for septic tank pumping is to clear any vehicles, outdoor furniture, or debris out of the way of the tank area for easy access. If you know where the tank is located, go ahead and mark that to save the crew time. You should also keep kids and pets indoors while the septic tank pumping is being performed.
Benefits of Regular Septic Tank Pumping Services
The last thing any homeowner with a septic tank system wants to see is wastewater backing up into your sinks, showers, or toilets. Regular septic tank pumping helps to prevent that messy, expensive headache. Septic tank pumping services also protect the drainfield, ensuring that solids don’t start to clog pipes and cause saturation of the soil. Tanks can also last for decades if they’re maintained, so regular septic tank pumping (every 3-5 years) is a much cheaper alternative to a full replacement of a poorly-maintained tank. (A full replacement can run from $10k-$30k!) Staying on top of your septic tank pumping also helps to maintain your property value, as most buyers will request proof of recent pumping.
Professional vs. DIY: Why You Shouldn’t Pump Your Own Tank
You should never attempt to pump your own tank. For starters, there are serious health implications of inhaling the toxic gases your tank produces– you need a team with the right uniform and equipment to take care of that for you. Also, without the proper equipment, you’re not going to be able to remove solids as effectively– a trained professional will use industrial-grade tools to get the job done right. Additionally, the waste needs to be disposed of at an approved treatment facility. Finally, you risk damaging the tank and contaminating your groundwater by attempting to do it yourself. Licensed and insured companies, like our team at FreeFlow Environmental, are specially trained in septic tank pumping services and know how to follow health regulations.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Septic System Healthy
Long story short: regular septic tank pumping is the best way to keep your home and all of its systems running safely and efficiently. It’s also the only way to prevent sludge buildup that can cause backups, clogs, and drainfield failure.
Book Your Free On-Site Inspection Today!
If you’re not sure if your septic tank is due maintenance– or it’s been 3-5 years since you last had your septic tank pumped– then get in touch with our team at FreeFlow Environmental today! We can come out and give you a free on-site inspection and give you our professional opinion today.
