Septic Tank Pump Out Service

Septic tank pump out service is necessary when the solids accumulated in the tank starts reaching the storage capacity. It will help if you pump the tank when total solid accumulation ranges between 30 and 50 percent of the full capacity.

Working of the pumper

Before pumping

Take note of the tank’s liquid level concerning the outlet pipe. A liquid level below the outlet pipe indicates a tank leak and above the outlet pipe indicates a problem with the pipe to the drain field or the drain field itself.

Pumping

From the maintenance, the hole begins pumping the tank. If you pump from inspection ports, it can damage baffles and tees. Nevertheless, when pumping is done from inspection ports, make sure to pump from both ports to pump all areas of the tank. Check for backflow from the outlet pipe. Significant backflow means a drain field backup and a little amount of backflow indicates a sag in the pipe to the drain field. Thoroughly pump the tank and use back flush and a septage spoon for loosening the sludge in the corners of the container. Avoid seeding the tank by leaving septage in it and do not power wash or scrub the tank of the wall.

After Pumping

Inspect the empty tank and check signs of structural damage like open weep hole, damaged cracks, or baffles. Finally, submit a report with the town and ask your local town hall to find out whether you need to provide a summary of the completed pump-out.

Reducing the number of pump-outs

You can save money and time for your septic tank pump-out service by following a few precautions that help in reducing the frequency of pump-outs. Apart from wastewater, the other thing you should flush is toilet paper. Using the toilet for disposing of sanitary products, cigarette butts, disposable diapers, paper towels, and tissues will damage your tank and require frequent pump-outs. Please avoid using a kitchen garbage disposal. Septic tanks cannot accommodate food waste, fat, grease, or coffee grounds and can harm the system. It is better to use a compost pile as it reduces the number of pump-outs your system needs. Lowering water usage helps in protecting your system. Moreover, repair leaky toilets and faucets, turn off the water while brushing or shaving, and install low-flow water fixtures. Conservation of water reduces the wastewater load your septic tank has to handle.

Do system additives lessen the number of pump-outs?

Many cities and towns have a law that prohibits using organic chemical solvents and acids in the systems. Acids destroy a concrete tank and are ineffective in cleaning the tank as well as contaminate water supplies. Some manufacturers claim that biological additives boost treatment and reduce the number of septic tank pump out service, research shows that biological enzymes and other system additives never improve the functioning of the system. The amount of enzyme or bacteria present in additives is so less than its effectiveness is almost negligible. Without proper pump-outs, solid will flow and clog the drain field, thereby results in the costly repair process.