If you want to avoid soggy yards, foul smells, and backed-up drains, then you need to know the basics of septic services. What specific septic services do you need, and when do you need them?
The Basics
Septic services can be divided into three basic categories:
- Septic Pumping – Septic pumping is the process of removing all liquid waste from the septic tank. Periodic septic pumping helps ensure your septic system isn’t overloaded with more liquid than can dissipate into the drain field. Like most septic services, you won’t need septic pumping all the time, but plan to have your system pumped at least once every three to five years for optimal functioning.
- Septic Cleaning – When it comes to comparing these two septic services, you can think of septic cleaning as a level above septic pumping. While septic pumping will help your drains flow quickly, removing liquid waste won’t get rid of the solid materials building up at the bottom of your septic tank. Septic cleaning includes septic pumping, but goes further by removing any sludge at the bottom of the tank as well.
Household size makes a big difference in how often you will need specific septic services. A smaller household won’t produce as much waste, so septic pumping and cleaning can be scheduled less frequently. However, you should plan to schedule a septic cleaning at least once every five years.
- Inspection – Let’s say you don’t know how long it’s been since your system last saw septic services. Maybe you’ve recently moved, or you’re new to the idea of septic services as a whole. If you’re not sure what your system needs, then your best bet is the third type of septic service: inspection.
Whether you’re thinking about moving into a new house, are noticing problems with your system, or want to prove to prospective buyers your house has a fully functioning septic system, an inspection can be the answer you’re looking for. Your trusted, certified septic installers at Dewey’s Septic and Grading can give your system a thorough inspection, identifying any present problems, suggesting needed septic services, and offering tips for keeping your septic system running smoothly between service visits.