How Often Should You Pump a Septic Tank?

Most household septic tanks need pumping every three to five years. The U.S. EPA recommends an inspection by a septic professional at least every three years, and pumping when the inspection shows it is needed.

What changes the interval

• Household size. More people means more wastewater and faster sludge build-up.
• Tank size. A 1,000 gallon tank fills faster than a 1,500 gallon one for the same household.
• Garbage disposal. Food solids add to the sludge layer and can shorten the interval noticeably.
• Water use. Leaky fixtures and long showers push more water through the system.

Signs you are overdue

• Slow drains or gurgling pipes throughout the house
• Sewage smell near the tank or drain field
• Wet, spongy or unusually green grass over the drain field
• Water or sewage backing up into the lowest drains

If you notice any of these, call a pumping company soon. Waiting can damage the drain field, which is far more expensive to fix than a pump-out.

What a pump-out and inspection include

The technician uncovers the tank lids, pumps out the sludge and scum, and checks the baffles, inlet and outlet for damage. Many companies also check the drain field and recommend risers if the lids are buried, which makes future service faster and cheaper.