How to keep a septic system out of trouble
How often to pump, what to watch for, and the simple habits that add years to a drain field. Free to read, and we'd rather you use it than call us for a backup.
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When should I pump my tank?
Estimate your pumping interval from tank size and household size. Most homes need service every three to five years.
Warning signs of trouble
If you notice any of these, call before it becomes a backup.
- Slow drains or gurgling sounds in the plumbing
- Sewage odors inside or near the tank and drain field
- Soggy ground, standing water or unusually green grass over the drain field
- Sewage backing up into tubs, showers or floor drains
- A high-water or pump alarm sounding
Eight habits that add years to a system
None of these cost money. All of them are cheaper than a drain field.
- Pump on a schedule. Every three to five years for most homes. Use the calculator and keep the receipts.
- Only flush the three P's. Pee, poo and toilet paper. Wipes, even the ones labeled flushable, clog pumps and fill tanks fast.
- Keep grease out of the drain. Fats, oils and grease harden in the tank and the field. Wipe pans, trash the grease.
- Spread out water use. One load of laundry a day instead of five on Saturday. Fix running toilets. Less water means a longer-lasting field.
- Protect the drain field. No parking or driving on it, no trees or deep-rooted shrubs, and send roof drains and sump pumps somewhere else.
- Go easy on the garbage disposal. A disposal adds up to half again as many solids. Compost or trash food scraps, or plan to pump sooner.
- Skip the additives. Your tank already has the bacteria it needs. Additives are unnecessary and some do harm.
- Know where your system is. Keep a sketch of the tank, lids and field. Risers put the lids at grade so nobody digs.
Care questions
What homeowners ask us on pumping day.
Is there anything I can pour in to avoid pumping?
No. Nothing dissolves sludge. Additives at best do nothing and at worst push solids into the drain field, which is the expensive part of the system. Pumping is the maintenance.
Do risers matter?
Yes. Risers bring the lids to grade so every service starts without digging, which saves you money on every visit and makes it possible to check the tank between pumpings.
What does a garbage disposal do to a septic system?
It adds ground food solids the bacteria can't break down quickly, up to half again as much sludge. If you use one, plan to pump more often. The calculator above accounts for it.
How do I know my tank size?
It's usually stamped on the lid or listed on the as-built drawing the county keeps for permitted systems. Common residential sizes are 1,000, 1,250 and 1,500 gallons. If you're not sure, we'll measure on site.