When a septic tank is functioning optimally, the waste in the tank will break down over time. That doesn’t mean you never need to pump it. The consensus among experts is that you should schedule septic tank pumping every three to five years. Because of the buildup of materials that may not break down, you may eventually run into problems with your leaching field. This will cause foul smells and saturated ground in your yard. Routine pumping helps to avoid this.
You may also experience blockages that require septic tank repair. This can result from household products that enter your system. It can also be because of invasive tree roots, which can wreak havoc on a septic system. Clogs are common at both the inlet and outlet baffles. They can also occur in the leaching field.
Watch out for signs you need septic system service.
- Gurgling plumbing sounds
- Multiple slow drains in the home
- Nasty odors near the tank location
- The soggy ground over and near the tank
- Backed-up toilets and wastewater in drains