Even though you use it every day, it's not unusual to have questions about how your septic tank works. The more you know about your system, the better prepared you will be to deal with any problems that arise in the future. Martin's Septic Service of Milledgeville, GA, has been providing septic installations and repairs for over 15 years. They'll set up the right schedule for pumping your tank and removing the waste, so your home stays clean.

How Often Does My Septic Tank Need to Get Pumped?

No matter how smoothly your septic system appears to be running, the tank will need to be pumped at some point. The amount of demand on the system and density of the sludge and scum layers in the tank typically determine your cleaning schedule. Checking these levels yourself isn't safe for the average homeowner, so regular septic tank inspections are essential. 

Most septic tanks need to be inspected once a year. The inspector will check the scum and sludge levels as well as the drain field and pipes to make sure everything is working properly. While inspections should be performed annually, the Environmental Protection Agency says most systems only need to be pumped every one to three years. Failure to keep up with this maintenance schedule will eventually result in overflow, which could redirect waste back into your home. 

What Happens to the Waste?

After the pump truck leaves the job site, its final destination depends on the relevant federal and state laws. Some regulations require the contents be sent to waste treatment plants, while others may ask that it be treated in cesspools or dumped in approved landfills.

Some communities may rely on eco-friendly waste disposal methods, such as using septage as fertilizer or extracting methane compounds to generate electricity. 

Depending on local regulations, your waste may end up having a more interesting journey ahead of it than you ever imagined. The most important job you have is getting it there, and Martin's Septic Service will be there to help with routine septic tank pumping. Call (478) 452-8272 to schedule service and visit their website for more information.