A backup or other septic emergency is every homeowner’s nightmare. The good news is that these situations can be avoided by proper care and maintenance of your septic system. Just like changing the oil in your car, failing to perform routine maintenance on your septic system can be disastrous and result in a total system failure.
One of the most common routine maintenance procedures is having your septic system pumped. This simple process only needs to be done every three to five years to keep your system in shape and ensure that household waste goes where it’s supposed to – and stays there.
What To Expect During Septic System Pumping
Pumping your septic system is a routine procedure that cleans out the septic tank and prevents backups and other septic emergencies. The whole process only takes about fifteen minutes to one hour, so it’s not overly complicated.
Septic system pumping typically involves five basic steps:
Step 1: Locate And Open Tank Access Lids
First, the technician will need to locate the septic tank access lid. Depending on when the system was installed, it may have one or two compartments, each with its own cover. Once the technician locates the entry point, they may have to uncover and expose the lid. If it’s been a while since the tank was serviced, this may be a more challenging process.
Opening the lid (or lids) can present its own difficulties. Depending on the system’s age, condition, and the wear and tear on the lid, it may be impossible to remove without causing damage. In that case, the lid may need to be replaced.
Step 2: Pump The Septic Tank
After the technician gains access to the tank, they’ll be able to start the clean-out process. They’ll use a hose connected to a high-powered vacuum truck to remove all the liquids, solids, sludge, and debris from the tank.
The powerful vacuum will easily suck up most of the tank’s contents, but often there is a thick layer of sludge and other solids left behind.
Step 3: Wash Out The Tank
Any sludge and waste left behind after vacuuming will need to be removed manually. So, the technician will use water to clean any remaining debris and flush out residue still in the tank. This is an important step to ensure no waste is left behind to clog up the system, and it will work to remove most of the remaining solids.
The crew will also flush out the outlets and filters connecting to the system’s drain field. Not only does a clean tank work better, but it allows the technician to see any damage or defects in the equipment more easily.
Step 4: Inspect The Septic Tank
Once the clean-out process is complete, the technicians will thoroughly inspect the tank’s interior and exterior. They’ll look for any signs of damage or deterioration and check for the presence of tree roots. They’ll also inspect the tank’s dividing wall and baffles for any concerns.
A careful inspection is essential for preventing future leaks and backups caused by damaged or corroded septic equipment. Sewage and household waste become a serious health hazard when it seeps out of small cracks and openings in a damaged tank, potentially exposing your family and community to dangerous pathogens.
Step 5: Reinstall The Tank Lids And Secure The Septic Tank
After the cleaning and inspection process is complete, service technicians will close up the tank by securing the lid and reburying it. Usually, the tanks are buried six to twelve inches underground. If that’s not the case, the technician may recommend installing risers to allow for easier access and maintenance in the future.
Don’t Wait For An Emergency To Schedule Your Septic System Pumping
Keeping your septic system up and running should be a top priority. Luckily, you don’t have to take care of your system’s care and maintenance alone.
Contact the professionals at All Septic & Sewer to find out exactly what your system needs and get on a regular maintenance schedule. You can learn about all the benefits of routine septic system pumping and maintenance.
Pumping, maintenance, and inspection services are simple but critical for preventing future problems and potentially disastrous septic system failures. Not to mention, a properly operating septic system keeps you, your family, and your community safe from the health hazards associated with groundwater contamination.
All Septic & Sewer is a trusted and reputable provider proudly servicing King, Pierce, and Thurston counties. Give us a call today and follow us on Facebook for more tips, advice, and special offers.