FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Have My Septic Tank Pumped Out?

In general, we recommend having your septic pumped out every 3-5 years for maintenance purposes. Depending on the amount of people living in your house, the size of your tank, your usage, and the state of your system, you may have to pump it more often or less often. If you have just moved into your house, we recommend having your septic pumped right away to have a fresh start. 

What does a septic pump out entail?

Septic tank pump-out is a process where the accumulated solid waste and sludge in a septic tank are removed by pumping out the contents of the tank. Septic tanks are underground wastewater treatment systems commonly used in areas where there is no access to a centralized sewer system. Over time, solid waste and sludge build up in the septic tank, and regular pump-outs are necessary to prevent the tank from becoming too full and causing problems such as sewage backups or system failure.

Here are the general steps involved in a septic tank pump-out:

1. Hire a licensed and qualified septic tank service provider: Septic tank pump-outs should only be carried out by licensed and qualified professionals who have the necessary equipment, training, and knowledge to safely pump out septic tanks.

2. Locate and access the septic tank: The septic tank is usually buried underground and has a manhole or access port for pumping. The septic tank service provider will locate and access the tank using appropriate tools and equipment.

3. Pump out the contents of the septic tank: Using a vacuum truck or pump, the septic tank service provider will remove the accumulated solid waste, sludge, and liquids from the septic tank. The contents are transferred to the vacuum truck for proper disposal at a designated treatment facility.

4. Inspect the septic tank and components: While the septic tank is empty, the service provider may inspect the tank and its components, such as the baffles, inlet and outlet pipes, and inspection ports, for any signs of damage or wear. Repairs or maintenance may be recommended if needed.

5. Re-seal and cover the septic tank: Once the pump-out and cleaning are complete, the septic tank service provider will re-seal and cover the tank securely to prevent unauthorized access and protect it from environmental factors.

6. Keep records: It's important to maintain records of septic tank pump-outs, including the date of service, volume of contents pumped out, and any maintenance or repairs conducted. These records can be helpful for future reference and for ensuring proper maintenance of the septic system.

What are baffles and are they important?

Septic baffles, also known as septic tank baffles, are components of a septic tank system that help to ensure the proper treatment of wastewater. Septic tank baffles are essentially partitions that are designed to prevent solids and scum from flowing out of the tank and into the drain field or distribution box.

There are two types of septic baffles: inlet baffles and outlet baffles. Inlet baffles are located at the inlet end of the tank and help to direct incoming wastewater downward and away from the outlet. Outlet baffles are located at the outlet end of the tank and help to prevent solids and scum from exiting the tank and clogging the drain field or distribution box.

Septic baffles are typically made from PVC, concrete, or fiberglass and should be inspected regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and functioning properly. If the baffles become damaged or deteriorated, they should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent damage to the septic system and potential contamination of the surrounding environment.

What are septic filters?

Septic tank filters are devices that are installed in septic systems to filter out solid waste particles and other debris before they reach the drain field. These filters typically sit in the outlet pipe of the septic tank and are designed to capture and hold back solids that can clog or damage the drain field.

Septic tank filters come in a variety of designs and materials, but most are made of durable plastic or metal and can be cleaned or replaced as needed. Some filters use screens or mesh to capture solid waste, while others use biological filtration to break down organic material.

Proper maintenance of septic tank filters is essential to ensure the system operates efficiently and effectively. Filters should be cleaned or replaced regularly to prevent clogs and backups, and homeowners should also take care to avoid flushing or disposing of non-biodegradable materials, such as paper towels or plastics, that can damage or clog the filter.

What is a septic drain field?

A septic drain field, also known as a leach field, is a part of a septic system used for the treatment of wastewater. It is typically a shallow, excavated area of soil where effluent from a septic tank is discharged and allowed to percolate through the soil, where natural biological processes occur to break down and treat the wastewater.

The septic drain field is designed to allow the effluent to filter gradually through the soil, where it is naturally purified by microorganisms and other natural processes. The soil acts as a natural filter, removing harmful contaminants and bacteria from the wastewater before it returns to the groundwater supply.

To ensure that the septic drain field operates properly, it is important to maintain the septic system regularly and avoid introducing harmful substances such as chemicals, oils, and grease into the septic tank. Properly designed, installed, and maintained septic systems can provide effective and environmentally sound wastewater treatment for many years.

What is a septic lift station?

A septic lift station, also known as a sewage lift station or a pump station, is a system that is designed to pump wastewater from a lower elevation to a higher elevation when the natural slope of the ground does not allow for gravity-based flow. The lift station consists of a pit or tank that collects sewage and other wastewater from homes or buildings and a pump that moves the wastewater to a higher elevation, such as a sewer line or a treatment facility.

The lift station is typically equipped with a control panel that monitors the water level in the pit and activates the pump when the level reaches a certain point. Lift stations are commonly used in areas where the wastewater must be lifted to reach the main sewer line or treatment facility, such as in low-lying areas, hilly terrain, or in buildings that are located below the sewer line.

It is important to regularly maintain and inspect septic lift stations to prevent failures and ensure that the system is functioning properly. Proper maintenance includes regularly checking the pump and control panel, cleaning the pit or tank, and repairing any leaks or malfunctions.

*We will continue to update this page with more questions and answers.