On average, a household septic tank should be inspected every at least three years and pumped at least every five years. Other households have alternative systems that include electrical float switches, pumps, and other mechanical components. These alternative systems require more frequent pumping. There are several things that influence the required frequency of septic system pumping, including the number of people sharing the tank, the size of the septic tank, the total amount of water used, and the volume of solids accumulated. If you're thinking about putting your home on a septic tank pumping schedule, here's how to do it:

Choosing Septic Services

There are numerous national and local septic services operators. The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) has a comprehensive list of septic service professionals nationwide. You can find septic services in your area from its website and get a quote from each of the operators that you find. You can also ask your homeowners association if there is a recommended septic pumping operator in the area. Call your preferred septic services provider and set a schedule with them.

Checking the Septic Tank

After setting an appointment with your chosen septic services provider, they will inspect your septic tank for leaks and measure the levels of solids in the tank. Your septic tank has an outlet that prevents sludge and scum from leaking out of the tank and flowing to the drain field area. Your septic service provider will check whether the sludge levels are high enough to need pumping. Otherwise, the provider will make a maintenance record and schedule regular visits to re-check until your septic tank is up for pumping services.

Other Repairs

In some cases, the septic services provider will also recommend other repairs. There may be the need to replace old and worn-out pipes. Rapid increase in sludge and scum layers could also mean leaking fixtures or ineffective drainage system that fail to prevent solid matters from reaching the septic tank. Hire the required repairman as soon as possible. The septic services professional will also take note of the repairs completed in your septic tank system service report.

Putting your home on a septic tank pumping schedule requires three simple steps: choosing a septic services provider, checking septic tank levels, and implementing other repairs. In the end, you will be happy you took these setup steps to avoid the hassle of a major septic tank failure. 

For more information on septic system pumping, visit websites such as http://www.zebwattsseptic.com.