Regular septic tank pumping is an essential component of proper maintenance because failing to do so can cause major issues that result in a costly, hazardous situation. How often you’ll need septic tank pumping will depend on the tank’s size and the number of occupants in the home. However, a general guideline is to pump the septic tank once every three to four years.
Here are six benefits of septic tank pumping that every owner should know:
1. Avoid drain backup
Regular septic tank pumping is the best way to avoid unsightly drain backup. When drains start to back up, it’s a warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored because there might be a problem with the septic system. Contact a
reputable septic service company immediately.
2. Prevent water contamination
For owners who get water from a well, neglecting septic tank pumping can result in water contamination. Septic systems keep the waste in the tank and allow ‘effluent’ (i.e. liquid waste) to float to the surface. The effluent is then transported through the drain field and filtered before entering the groundwater.
When a tank gets too full, it can push the waste to the drain field and clog it up so that it can no longer filter properly, allowing contaminants to pass through. Although regular septic tank pumping removes this threat, you should still test well water every so often to ensure it’s safe.
3. Avoid unnecessary expenses
The saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is particularly true for septic tanks. Septic tank pumping is an effective way to avoid costly repairs or a premature replacement of one or more of the components of your septic system.
4. Prevent slow toilet flushing
When toilets in your home flush slowly, bubble, or can’t flush at all, you may have a septic system issue on your hands. Pumping the septic tank when it gets full can help prevent flushing issues. (Note: if there’s a clog in the pipes, you’ll need to call a plumber.)
5. Protect the surrounding environment
If sewage escapes from the septic tank and reaches nearby ponds or lakes, algal blooms can happen which is toxic to wildlife and humans. Other signs that sewage is affecting the environment is if the grass around the septic drain field grows greener or faster than the rest of the lawn which indicates that it’s fertilizing the grass.
Also, watch out for standing water or damp spots around the septic tank or drain field. Wet spots are primarily caused by the excessive buildup of grease and oil in the tank which affects the flow of water and pushes it up. These
septic tank problems need to be fixed immediately as they’re hazardous to the environment.
6. Prevent sulfuric, foul odors
A full septic tank can produce toxic sulfur which often results in a rotten-egg smell coming from pipes. If the stench intensifies when you walk outside by the septic tank, it’s likely that raw sewage has escaped. Regular septic tank pumping will help prevent foul odors from stinking up your home.
Protect Your Home with Septic Tank Pumping
Enjoy the many benefits of septic tank pumping by scheduling a service appointment today. Honey-Wagon is a septic maintenance company that services Miami, Wyandotte, and Johnson counties in Kansas as well as Jackson and Cass in Missouri. We offer septic tank pumping and inspections to protect your home from an expensive, hazardous emergency.
Contact us today at (913) 681-3563 or (816) 525-5100 to request an estimate!