While some homes are connected to a municipal sewer system, others are equipped with their own septic tank to handle their waste. These tanks, usually made of plastic or concrete, collect wastewater and sewage from the household and dispose of them with the help of a drain field and bacteria. These units only hold a certain amount of waste, however, and should be emptied regularly to continue functioning. If you want to learn more about how often you should schedule pumping for your tank, here’s a helpful guide.

How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Serviced?

Waste materials that end up in the septic system are separated into two. Any waste that could be liquefied exits through the drainage pit, while heavier particles sink to the bottom of the tank and become sludge. The sludge must be emptied on occasion to keep your unit from getting full. 

In general, a septic tank should be serviced and emptied at least once a year. Since they can only hold a limited volume of sewage and wastewater, stay on top of your pumping schedule to avoid overflow or sewage backups in your home.

What Affects the Frequency of Septic Tank Pumping?

Use

The more people living on a property, the more household waste goes into a septic tank. Guests and visitors also use toilets and sinks, to take their use into consideration to determine the frequency at which you may need servicing. 

Tank Size 

The size of your system determines the amount of sewage and sludge it can hold. Smaller tanks might need to be emptied more often, while larger ones can hold up to a year’s worth of volume.

Household Cleaners

Cleaning supplies used to wash toilets, sinks, and bathrooms also pass through the septic system. Once they reach the tank, the antibacterial chemicals of these products could kill the bacteria that break down solid wastes, slowing down the rate at which it decomposes. The more cleaners you use, the more frequently you might need to have your septic tank inspected for waste levels and piping damage.

When you need pumping services for your septic tank, Around The Clock Pumping in Anchorage, AK can help. With over 17 years of experience, their skilled professionals are well-versed in septic system maintenance, drain cleaning, and other types of waste service for residential and commercial clients. Due to popular demand, they’ve extended their service area to Kenai Peninsula and the Matu-Su Borough. See what they offer online, or call (907) 345-9126 to schedule an inspection.