Professional Septic Tank Pumping & Repair

How often you need to have your septic tank pumped will depend on your usage and any existing damage or clogged drains. Typically, a fully functional 1,000-gallon septic tank requires pumping every 3-5 years based on regular use by a 4 person household.

Body waste and septic tank safe toilet paper are the only solid materials that should be flushed into your septic tank. If you are used to a sewer system such as those maintained by public utilities, you will want to be more conscience about what you flush and send down the drain. Feminine products, baby wipes, cotton balls, dental floss, tissue paper and other items that you may be used to flushing do not play well with a septic tank system. Not only can these materials cause a need for more frequent pumping, but they can also, in some cases, clog your field lines leading to costly repairs.

Garbage disposals can be a great tool for the kitchen. They grind up food into tiny particles and is a convenient way to dispose of biodegradable material. One of the problems though with using a garbage disposal is that you may be more likely to flush material that should not be in your septic tank. As non-biodegradable material such as bones and coffee grounds get flushed, they increase the amount of sludge in your septic tank. This will cause an increase in pumping frequency and reduce the number of necessary bacteria needed to break down the waste.

Septic tanks require a proper number of bacteria to help break down solids and grease. We typically do recommend using additives because under normal household conditions, chemicals such as anti-bacterial soaps and bleach can negatively affect the healthy bacteria required to keep your septic system operating at an optimal level. Contact us today for recommendations on proper additives.

You should have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years depending on the number of people in your household and the types of material you flush or send down the drain. One of the main signs that your septic tank needs pumping is backups. When a septic tank becomes full, you may notice that several sink drains do not drain, and toilets will not flush. Another sign is odor. A tank that is full may cause sewage odors inside your home.

It's a good idea to know the location of your septic tank access door before you call for service. For assistance in locating, you may be able to find help from the Environmental Health department in your county. The numbers below should be helpful. If you still need assistance, just give us a call and we can help you once we are on site.

Pulaski County: 501-280-3100

Saline County: 501-303-5650