A functioning septic system ensures that your home has a consistent supply of clean, usable water. Your septic tank needs to be adequately maintained to keep your water clean and your system functioning. One of these tasks is having your tank pumped regularly. Many plumbing contractors do this as part of their work, and here is what you should know about this project and when to schedule it.

Septic Tank Pumping 101

Why Does Your Tank Need to Be Emptied?

It may seem like pumping your septic tank isn’t that important. However, even if you haven’t had any issues, you should have your tank pumped regularly. This is because, as you use your tank, solid substances will settle at the bottom and create a layer of sludge. If it’s left to build up past the ideal levels, these solid substances will make their way into the drain field. This could contaminate your water and overload your septic system, resulting in a backup of sewage and dirty water into your drains.

How Often Should My Tank Be Emptied?

As a general rule, a septic tank should be emptied every three to five years. However, this is just an estimate because each household is different. The more people who live in your house or, the more water you use, the more often your tank will need to be pumped. Also, if you have a smaller tank, it will need to be pumped more often. A single person living in a house will need to have the tank pumped much less frequently than a family of seven.

What Are the Signs That You Need Your Tank Pumped?

There are some circumstances when you should call a plumbing contractor to pump your tank right away. If you notice water pooling in the lawn around the drain field, this is a telltale sign that your tank is full. Also, the grass might be much greener and more lush around the drain fields, which indicates the solids from the tank are seeping out. You’ll even notice a foul odor that smells like sewage.

Inside your home, your drains might start draining slowly, as well as your toilet. If you notice sewage backing up into your sinks, bathtubs, or toilets, get your tank pumped immediately. Of course, you should call in a plumbing contractor long before you reach this point, and only seek emergency service as a last resort.

The expert plumbing contractors at Pelner-Williams Plumbing & Heating in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, offer septic tank pumping, maintenance, and replacement. They’re trusted by residents of Wood County and have been providing services in the area for several years. They’ll work with you to set up a maintenance schedule for your septic tank so that small issues don’t turn into significant problems. Visit their website or call (715) 424-7800 today to schedule an initial consultation.