If your house relies on a septic system for waste disposal, you need regular septic pumping to remove solid waste from the tank. It’s best to schedule this service once every three to five years to keep your septic tank functioning properly. While the process of septic pumping is fairly quick, certain complications can extend it.

If you have an average, three- or four-bedroom home, your septic tank probably has a capacity of 1000 to 1250 gallons. A tank of that size that has been emptied on a regular basis should take 20 minutes to a half an hour to empty. However, this only applies if there are no problems during the process.

When a septic service comes to empty your tank, they'll bring large hoses to vacuum away the waste. However, these hoses are only designed for waste that belongs in a septic tank. If you've been flushing inappropriate items, the hose is likely to clog and prolong the treatment. Items that can clog a septic pumping hose include diapers, baby wipes, rocks, sanitary products, and any other items which don’t break down quickly.

Your past maintenance habits can also affect the duration of a pumping appointment. If the tank hasn’t been emptied in a while, the buildup will take longer to clear. You may also need more backwashing to remove compressed and caked-on waste.

When you schedule septic tank pumping, make sure to plan for complications that might extend the cleaning time. For the best results, choose an appointment time that allows the plumber a solid hour or two to access the tank.

Al Trusty Septic in Hobbs, NM, is Lea County's go-to provider for septic pumping and maintenance services. Their experienced team will provide fast, reliable service to keep your system running smoothly. To schedule an appointment, call (575) 393-1200. You can also visit their website to learn more about their services.