How Often Should I Get My Septic System Cleaned Out?

The septic system is an essential part of the residential sewage systems. These septic tanks are mostly
constructed from concrete and collect wastewater and sewage from the house. When it comes to septic
systems the most common question asked by homeowners is how often the septic system should be
cleaned out.

How often should you clean out your septic system?

The general rule is that you need to clean out your septic tank once every two to five years. However,
how frequently you clean out your septic tank depend on usage and the number of people living in your
household. If you have a larger household, you may need to pump out your septic system more
frequently.
Moreover, other factors can also influence the frequency of septic system cleaning out. These factors
include:

• Size of the septic tank
• Total wastewater generated
• The volume of solids in wastewater

Why is it important to clean out the septic system?

One of the main reasons for cleaning out the septic tank regularly is to avoid overload. Pumping out the
septic system is crucial due to the tank’s primary purpose. These septic tanks are designed in a way that
heavy substances settle at the bottom, which over time, can form a slush layer. If the slush builds up and
form more layers than it should, more solid substances will make their way into the soil absorption
system.
As the absorption system pipes become clogged, it prevents liquids from flowing through and out of the
pipes to be absorbed into the nearby soil. In the end, the unsanitary water will make its way back to the
surface since the septic system is overloaded. But how will you know that it is time to clean out the
sewage system?

Signs that you need to clean out your septic system

Here are some of the signs you should be on the look for. If you notice any of them, you need to contact
a septic pumping professional to come and inspect your septic system.

• Sink and bathtub drains back up when you flush the toilet
• Toilets clog more often
• Bad odors coming from the drains in your home
• The area around the tank is pervaded with raw sewage

Cleaning out the septic tank

When you notice any of the above signs, it is in your best interest to call a professional to pump out the
septic system. These professionals have been trained to handle the waste and even dispose them of at
an approved processing facility.

Conclusion

Maintaining your septic system is crucial. Failing to do that that can lead to spillage and frequent
backups, which can damage the septic tank, making it require replacement. This will require money and
time. Of course, you wouldn’t want that to happen. That’s why you need to prevent these problems
from happening by contacting a septic system maintenance specialist who will help you develop a
cleaning schedule.