As septic pros, we hear a lot of questions about how often septic tanks should be pumped, and the resounding answer is that it depends on a variety of factors that are specific to the unique situation at hand. Septic systems offer an environmentally friendly and natural drain-waste management system, but they also require their own unique care and maintenance that differs from other sewer systems. While most septic systems need to be pumped about every two to five years, the correct answer for you depends on your system, which we’ll explore in greater detail below. The surest means of keeping your septic system in excellent working order is consulting with a trusted Westmoreland County septic specialist.
How Your Septic System Works
Septic systems work by employing gravity to separate wastewater into three separate components that include each of the following:
- The solids or sludge that accumulates at the tank’s bottom
- The watery mix, which is called effluent, resides in between the solids and scum
- The scum or grease at the top of the tank
When your septic system is operating normally, both the sludge and the scum remain in the tank while the effluent flows out into your drain field. The sludge and scum that’s left, however, needs to be cleaned from the tank periodically in order to keep the system running smoothly.
When Problems Arise
When either the scum or the sludge – or both – become too abundant, they can be pushed into the drain field with the liquid effluent. This can clog your septic system’s network of perforated pipes, which can lead to slow drainage and even plumbing backups in your home.
Striking the Right Balance
While pumping your septic tank frequently may seem like the logical answer, it’s not quite that simple. Your septic system requires a certain level of good bacteria in order to support the anaerobic digestion that allows it to effectively and efficiently break down the waste that flows through it into the next step in the filtration process.
Pumping your septic tank as needed is a key step in keeping your septic system running smoothly. Pumping, however, also reduces the level of biomaterials, and they take from one to three weeks to regain their balance. This makes scheduling pump cleanings as needed critical, and a seasoned septic pro can help you determine what this means for you.
Consult with a Reputable Westmoreland County Septic Specialist Today
American Sewer Specialist has been proudly serving Westmoreland County for more than three decades, and our savvy septic system professionals have extensive experience keeping septic systems throughout the area in excellent shape. Determining the right pumping schedule for your system comes down to a range of variables that we are well prepared to accurately assess on your behalf. Keeping your septic system in prime working condition is important to your home and your family, and we welcome the opportunity to make that happen. Learn more about what we can do to help by contacting us online or calling us at (724) 879-8130 today.
