The average septic tank needs to be emptied every three to five years. However, this frequency varies depending on the number of people in your home and how often you use the system. It can be hard to gauge when to call out a septic systems expert, especially if you move into a new home and aren’t sure when the tank was last pumped. Fortunately, there are some clear signs your septic tank is full.

When Does Your Septic Tank Needs to Be Emptied?

1. Bad Smells

Septic tanks tend not to smell very pleasant, and you can keep the smell from becoming too overpowering by pouring baking soda or white vinegar down the drain to neutralize the odor. However, if you find yourself frequently doing this, or the smell begins to bother your neighbors, you should arrange for a specialist to pump your tank. The tank is likely full or experiencing a problem.

2. Pooling Water

If water consistently pools on your lawn, even though there’s been no rainfall, your septic tank could be overflowing. When wastewater isn’t able to gently filtrate through the drainage field and seep into the soil, it ends up accumulating too quickly. When water has nowhere to go, it puddles on the surface. Always keep an eye on puddles on your lawn, even if it has recently rained.

3. Slow Drainage

Any drainage issues that can’t be resolved using a high-performance drain cleaner could be caused by a full septic tank and saturated drainage field. While stuck hair is relatively simple to resolve, trickier blockages require the services of a septic systems expert.

4. Unusually Lush Grass

If the grass above your septic tank is exceptionally healthy and green compared to the rest of your lawn, it could be receiving nutrients from your septic tank itself. If this is happening, it’s because your tank is overflowing into the ground around it.

Sanitrol Septic Services in North Branford, CT, is the leading septic systems experts in New Haven County. This locally owned business has been operating since 1984. Request a free estimate today, or take advantage of their 24/7 emergency call-out services by calling (203) 315-3202 or visiting their website to find out more.