How Septic Tank Pumping Works – A Guide

Your septic tank is one of the most important elements of your home waste management system. You may not be able to see inside your septic tank, but all of the solid and liquid waste from your home converges here for processing. As a septic owner, the advantages of septic systems are yours to enjoy, but so too are the responsibilities. Thankfully, Economy Septic Tank Service in Jacksonville, AL, is here to help.

Responsible septic ownership involves regular pumping which (depending on your usage and size of your tank) may be scheduled every 3-5 years. Regular septic pumping also improves your investment in the tank and system, allowing you to get more and more out of it through the years. 

Today, we’ll run through a step-by-step guide on how septic tank pumping works—along with the benefits this crucial bit of maintenance provides. 

Step 1: Inspecting the septic tank

The first step in the process is to inspect the septic tank itself. This should be done by a professional maintenance company as they can safely remove the cover and look inside the tank. Effectively, they are checking the levels of sludge within the tank. If it reaches a dangerously high level, it can clog pipes leading to the drain field, causing both damages to the system and to your property.

Step 2: Inserting a vacuum hose

Next, a large hose is inserted into your septic tank. This is attached to a tanker truck, and the truck will vacuum up sludge and waste directly from the tank. All of the effluents are sucked through the house into the tanker, where it is stirred to break up solid waste and make it easier to pump. 

Step 3: Removal of waste

After the septic tank pumping is complete, all of the waste gets removed in the tanker truck by the septic service company. It means you don’t have to worry about dealing with all of this yourself; it’s taken care of and you are left with a septic tank that’s clear of any sludge and ready to work day-in and day out. 

Why is regular septic tank pumping so important?

A septic tank can become clogged with solid waste if it isn’t pumped regularly. As a result, this can stop the natural drainage of the tank through pipes into a drain field. What tends to happen is the water levels rise within the tank, possibly leading to waterlogging in your yard. 

Regular septic tank pumping clears the system and ensures the tank can work correctly. It stops any blockages that can damage piping and lead to expensive repairs. By scheduling professional pumping every few years, your tank will last longer and function without any issues. 

Should I have septic tank pumping done right now?

That depends, have you ever had it done before? If not, then it is beneficial to call a maintenance company to inspect the tank. From here, you will know if pumping is necessary right now or if it isn’t. 

While a general best practice includes having your tank pumped every 3-5 years, a number of variables can accelerate the need for pumping. If you’ve inherited or recently purchased a home with a septic system, you’ll want to call out the professionals for a cursory inspection straight away. 

Keep Your Home Working Smoothly With Septic Pumping

Septic tank pumping isn’t an optional step in homeownership—it’s a vital responsibility to maintain everyday function and ultimate investment. If you suspect your tank is full (smell waste, see waste, or hear noises near drains), don’t hesitate. Call the professionals at Economy Septic Tank Service today and let us take care of it.

Keeping Your Home Happy, Healthy, and Valuable

On average, septic systems cost less than municipal sewers, last longer, and give you the freedom to live how and where you want. But those advantages come with a responsibility to maintain your home’s systems for optimal use and enjoyment. If you’re unsure whether you need your septic tank pumped, call Economy Septic straight away at (256) 435-1086!