For most homeowners, a septic tank is out of sight, out of mind. It’s not until it overflows that it becomes a problem. However, it’s important to pump the tank regularly to avoid property damage and health risks. If you’re a new homeowner, you may not know how often pumping services are needed. Here’s what you need to know. 

A Guide to Septic Tank Pumping Services

When Should You Get Pumping Services? 

A variety of factors influence when a septic tank should be pumped. Generally, comparing the size of your family and the size of the tank can help. A small one- or two-bedroom home with a 500-gallon tank will only need to be pumped every five to six years, as only a few individuals are using the system. If you have a larger one and a small household, you may not need pumping services for even longer. Larger families generate more waste, so the more people, the more often you’ll need to have it pumped. Residential septic tanks range between 750-1250 gallons, on average; if you can’t find this information, schedule an inspection.

What Happens If You Have a Unique Situation?

If you flush a lot of waste down the garbage disposal, regularly host parties and neighborhood kids, or have a home office where you host clients, you’re adding more waste than average to the system. In these cases, you’ll need pumping services more often. Further, familiarize yourself with the signs of a full tank, such as slow drains, pooling water, an overly green lawn, or foul smells coming from your yard. 

If you’re overdue for a septic tank pumping, the team at Zook’s Septic Services, LLC. can assist. Serving customers throughout Central Pennsylvania since 1988, they pride themselves on customer service and attention to detail. They offer septic repair and drain cleaning services, and once your waste is removed, they will convert it to fertilizer for local farms. Explore their services on their website, and call (570) 837-1466 to schedule an inspection.