Septic tank pumping removes sludge buildup from the tank and helps maintain a healthy home septic system. To understand the benefits of this process, you need to understand how a septic system works.

The septic tank is the first step in a septic system. Wastewater from the home flows into this tank where natural bacterial and enzyme action break down solids into liquids which rise to the top of the tank. The liquids then flow into a drain or leach field where it soaks away.

But not all solid waste breaks down. Some accumulates as sludge and sinks to the bottom of the septic tank. If the level of sludge rises high enough to flow into the drain fields it can clog the field and would render the septic system unusable. Think of septic tank pumping as preventive maintenance to make sure the system works well for years to come.

Homeowners should consider pumping the septic tank when the sludge levels reaches somewhere between a third and a half of the tanks capacity. Open the tank at the access cover and probe with a long stick. You should be able to determine the level of sludge and liquid based on the residue on the stick. If probing the septic tank isn’t something you look at as a fun weekend activity an annual or twice a year cleaning, depending on level of use, could be planned as a preventative measure.

Contract with a reputable septic cleaning service to have the tank pumped. This commonly involves using a pump and truck system to remove the sludge and liquid in the tank. The septic tank cleaner should use specialized hose attachments, sometimes called septage spoons to clear even the corners of the tank. It is not necessary to wash or flush the tank but all sludge and liquid should be removed.

There are steps homeowners can take to reduce the requirements for septic tank pumping and improve the overall health of the system. Limit things going into the septic system to water, toilet paper and human waste. Never flush disposable diapers, paper towels or even waste food. These items do not break down in the septic tank and contribute to the sludge buildup. In addition, limiting the amount of water introduced into the septic system by the use of conservation toilets and repairing leaks promotes the overall health of the septic system.