Did you know that your home’s Septic Tank needs to be pumped out, or are you hearing that for the first time? We are just kidding. 

Okay, so you already know septic tanks must be pumped and serviced often. 

But do you know how often you should do it? 

We will answer exactly that and will also give you some more tips on how to know it is time for a Septic Tank Pumping. 

Proper maintenance of your septic tanks Reno, NV, along with regular pumping, can help avoid unpleasant backups. Moreover, it’s essential for the health of your home, your wallet, and even the environment.

Let’s start by discussing why it’s necessary. Then, we will move on to how often to do it and the factors that affect your pumping schedule.

Why Do Septic Tanks Need Pumping?

Septic tanks are designed to separate and treat household wastewater. Inside the tank, wastewater is divided into three layers, which are –

  • Sludge is a heavy solid that settles at the bottom.
  • Scum is the grease and oils that float to the top.
  • Effluent is the liquid in the middle that flows out into the drain field.

This is how the septic system works the effluent is filtered out, and the sludge and scum remain in the tank and build up over time.

If the layers of sludge and scum aren’t removed regularly, they can overflow into the drain field. This will lead to clogged pipes and can cause serious problems like backups in your home, unpleasant odors, and, worst of all, contamination of nearby water sources.

When the septic system is regularly pumped out, it prevents these issues and makes sure your septic system continues to function efficiently and does the job right.

Now, it is time for the part you have been waiting for.

How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. These factors include your household size, your home water usage, and septic tank size. Here’s a helpful guide that will give you a clear idea about how often you must pump your septic tank. 

Tank Size (Gallons) 1-2 People 3-4 People 5-6 People
500 gallons Every 5 years Every 3 years Every 2 years
1,000 gallons Every 5 years Every 2.5 years Every 1.5 years
1,500 gallons Every 7 years Every 3 years Every 2 years

 

In maximum situations, a septic tank of a house must be pumped every 3-5 years. But if you have moved to a new property, you can’t just guess the previous owners have pumped out the septic tank. That is why you must at least schedule an inspection to understand its current condition and if it needs pumping.

If you are located in Northern Nevada, you can book professional septic services Reno NV, for your new property. Or if you have been living in your home for a long time and have not got your septic tank pumped out in the last few years, it is time you get it done to avoid any disasters in your home. 

Factors That Can Affect Your Septic Tank Pumping Schedule

Every home is different, and there are a few factors that affect how often you should pump out your septic. 

  • Your household size is one of the major factors. It is simple logic – the more people or adults you have in your house, the more wastewater your septic tank must handle. This automatically leads to quicker accumulation of sludge and scum.
  • The size of the tank installed at your home is an important factor. Larger tanks can go longer between pumping sessions compared to smaller tanks. For example, if a home has a 1,500-gallon tank serving a small family of 2 or 3 people, it will need less frequent pumping than a 500-gallon tank for the same household.
  • If your home has high water usage due to longer showers, heavy laundry loads, and excessive toilet flushing, it will overwhelm the septic tank. This will lead to a frequent need for maintenance and pumping.
  • If your waste management habits are not on point, we have some bad news. When you flush non-biodegradable items like wipes, diapers, or grease, it can clog your system faster. This will obviously require emergency septic services Reno, NV.
  • If your septic system is getting old, it will require more frequent maintenance and pumping. You will have to spend on more repairs. In these situations, it is preferably better to get a new septic system installed with the help of a professional leach field installation reno NV.        

How to Know If Your Septic Tank Needs Immediate Pumping?

Here are some red flags you need to keep an eye on that can you tell if it’s time for pumping –

  1. If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slowly, it is an indication of a full tank.
  2. A strong and foul smell near your drains or in your yard is a clear sign of septic issues.
  3. If there is pooling water around your septic tank or drain field, it means that there might be an overflow.
  4. It is not just gross when you see wastewater backing up into your home. It is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.

Don’t wait or delay the matter if you notice any of these warning signs. Immediately call a plumbing contractor Reno NV, who will handle the issue quickly. Trust us on this: plungers, baking powder, vinegar, and all sorts of DIY methods will not solve the problem. It will be a waste of your time and resources.

Ditch DIY and Get Your Septic Tank Pumped By Professionals At Easy Rooter Plumbing & Drains

When was the last time your septic tank was pumped? If your answer is more than 5 years ago, please don’t wait any longer. Before any problems arise, schedule septic services in Reno, NV, with Easy Rooter Plumbing.

With over 45 years of experience, an A+ BBB rating, and 24/7 emergency services, our team of professional plumbers Reno is here to help. We offer all services related to septic tanks, which include routine pumping and inspections, 

Call Easy Rooter Plumbing today at (775) 242-6665 to schedule your septic tank service. We will help keep your septic system in top shape so that you do not have to face issues like backflow, clogged drains, and foul odors in your home!