Ask the Experts: Top 3 Questions from Homeowners about Getting Septic Tanks Pumped

One of the things we often get asked by homeowners is how often they need to get their septic tanks pumped.

The frequency of pumping will vary from household to household depending on a variety of factors. But, it’s typically recommended that you get your system pumped every three to five years, which can be done at any time of year.

So, what are the variables that influence how regularly you might need to pump your septic tank system and have your sewage ejector pump cleaned?

The main factors are:

• The size of your septic tank
• The number of people in your household
• How much water you tend to use

Another thing to consider when trying to determine how quickly waste will build up in your septic system is how frequently you use a garbage disposal.

Garbage disposals cause sludge and scum levels in your drains to rise more quickly. If you’re looking to lengthen the periods between pumps, you might want to look at getting a compost bin as an alternative.

Using roof drains, sump pumps, and shower flow restrictors might also afford you more time between appointments. These block the flow of some solid waste into your pipes and decrease the likelihood of sewer blockages.

To determine the optimal pumping schedule for your home’s septic system, we always recommend consulting with a professional septic service provider. A seasoned expert can assess your situation and lifestyle and offer personalized recommendations based on your household's unique needs.

You can talk to us here!

If you’re not running into any obvious problems, it can be difficult to know when your septic system needs to be pumped.

But then, if you wait too long, you run the risk of serious blockages that may require repairs or replacements instead of simple maintenance.

The best way to determine when it’s time to schedule a maintenance pumping is learning how to recognize the signs and indicators.

Let’s explore the most common ones so you’ll know when to schedule timely pumping and avoid any unpleasant surprises in your home.

Slow-draining fixtures:

Noticing slow drainage in your sink, shower or toilet? Don’t ignore it! This could be a pretty strong sign that your septic system is overrun or has a potential blockage and is in need of pumping.

Foul odors:

Unwelcome, nasty sewage smells coming from your drain field are not only unpleasant and inconvenient. Often, they mean that high scum and sludge levels have caused clogged pipes that need to be cleared out before something more serious happens.

Green grass over drain field:

It may seem a little counterintuitive, but an overly healthy and green lawn above the drain field might mean that your septic system is leaking excess liquid due to a blockage, and pumping may be necessary to remove and treat waste.

If you notice any of these signs in your home, it's time to schedule an appointment with septic tank pumping professionals to prevent further issues.

You might be concerned that hiring a team of professionals to pump the entire septic tank system may be a little invasive and disruptive, which is a fair thought!

At Tidy Tim’s, we make it our mission to get in and out as quickly as possible, while ensuring we keep your home clean and safe throughout the process. 

So, what takes place during the service?

Typically, the process begins with our expert septic service providers locating and uncovering your tank's access ports. If your tank has more than one chamber and we have access to both, we’ll pump out both chambers right there for you.

We remove all the accumulated solids and sludge from your drains to create a clear passage for household waste so your tank can function properly and efficiently. We’ll perform a visual inspection of the system, too, for an even more thorough clean.

Then, we transport the pumped waste to a treatment facility to dispose of it safely and responsibly, protecting the health of your home and your family.

Regular septic tank pumping helps keep your system running as smoothly and efficiently as possible by preventing clogs and ensuring a healthy and hassle-free home environment.

Plus, it also extends the overall lifespan of the septic system, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it any time soon.