Septic tanks are by far the most expensive and crucial appliance for any home that is not on public sewer. Maintenance of your septic is as important as maintenance to a vehicle. If maintained at recommended intervals the life of that system will have longevity. Whereas skipping recommended intervals may not immediately cause issues, but over time it may cause major issues and shorten the life of that system.
Septic tanks are underground and help keep the flow of everything from your drains, toilets, tubs, and washing machine flowing out of and away from your home. Most tanks now are dual chambers, meaning two compartments connected by a baffle in the wall between the two. In the first chamber this is where what is referred to as the “trash” compartment/ Inlet side/ Solid Side of the tank. The inlet side is where the solids stay and settle at the bottom of the tank. The bacteria work on breaking these items down and eventually it will flow to the Outlet Side of the tank and then on to the drain field.
Solid waste builds up in the first compartment; this is where the bacteria is so important. If the bacteria can not keep up with the amount of waste entering the system, over time it will become too full and cause backups or a blockage in the tank. This will prohibit the flow from your home to the tank, which will lead to smells and back up into your home. The back ups start at the lowest level, toilets or tub/shower will have sewage coming up from the drains. The bacteria in the sewage can be harmful to your health.
Regular septic pumping at recommended internals reduces this risk of backups and saving money in the long run.
Recommended intervals of pumping are every 3-5 years and the average cost of scheduled pump out is $300-$500. Emergency pump outs, especially on weekends/holidays will be higher in cost.
Other than the 3-5 year recommended pumping intervals other signs that it is time to pump your system are slow drains, foul odors, lush green grass in your drainfield area, and lastly the backup of the sewage.
Keeping your septic system well maintained is a smart and responsible way to take care of your home, your health and the environment.
Cullison is happy to get your pump out scheduled within the week or in the future. Our goal is to help maintain your septic and be convenient for your schedule.