There are telltale signs that your septic system is in need of attention, from odors to backups. Proper septic pumping and disposal is required on a regular basis to ensure these messy and unhealthy malfunctions do no occur.
Signs Your Septic Tank Needs to Be Pumped
If you notice a constantly wet, soggy area of your lawn where your septic tank is buried, this could indicate a failing or overflowing unit. Solution? Get it pumped ASAP before you experience a nasty backup into your home. Another warning sign that your tank needs a pumping is a pungent odor coming from your toilets and drains. Once the sewage backs up into your bathroom, you’ve posed a health risk to your family. It’s important to get a professional in right away to clean up the situation and fix it, then get your tank pumped or even replaced if there has been irreparable damage done to the unit. If you have one of the newer septic tank systems on the market, these often come with an alarm that goes off when your tank is getting full. This is a fool proof way to know that it’s time to get it pumped.
When to Pump Your Septic Tank
As a rule, having your system pumped at least every three years, but this depends on the size of your tank, the size of your family and the volume of solids, according to USA Today. Those with 900-gallon tanks and a family of four should have their septic tank pumped every two years. Got a bigger 1500-gallon tank? Pump it out at least every four years. If you have a garbage disposal unit in your kitchen sink, consider this an invitation to pump your tank more often. Why? You’re essentially throwing more solids into your tank than a household without a disposal — up to 50 percent more. The EPA says that maintaining your septic system increases its life span and protects your home as well as the surrounding ground. When you fail to instill proper septic tank drainage, the unit can back up into your bathroom, plus it causes contamination of the groundwater. Think about this: that groundwater eventually becomes your drinking water. You may also have to invest thousands of dollars in a new tank if there’s a malfunction. The National Environmental Services Center says it costs between $100 and $300 to pump out your system, compared with the cost of having to replace one at between $3,000 and $10,000. Properly maintaining your septic tank now will save you money, time and hassle later.
Offering both residential and commercial septic disposal and septic tank treatments since 1964, Mr. John’s team of experts trained in septic system maintenance has all the tools to fit your needs. Proper maintenance of your system can save you money in the end, call 800.642.3971 to talk to a representative today.
