If you're like most people, you probably don't know much about septic tanks. You may not even be sure what they are. Here's what you need to know about septic tanks and septic tank cleaning services.
What are septic tanks?
A septic tank is a water-tight tank typically made of heavy-duty plastic or of concrete. It is used to treat wastewater (known as black water) from your home that comes from toilets, as well as the wastewater from showers, sinks, and washing machines—called gray water.
Does everyone have a septic tank?
Most people who live in rural areas have a septic tank. Some smaller towns also have centralized sewer systems that use septic tanks. Urban and suburban areas, however, use a municipal wastewater system, which does the same job as a septic tank, only on a larger scale.
What do septic tanks do?
Wastewater from your home enters the septic tank through your plumbing. The solid waste sinks to the bottom of the tank while the fluids move through the system and out into a leach field, where it is eventually absorbed back into the ground.
The septic tank breaks down the solid waste so it will not clog your system. There are many products, however, that cannot be broken down, including:
These items should not be put down your drain because they will clog your septic tank and eventually your leach field as well.
Why do septic tanks need to be pumped?
If too much solid waste accumulates in the septic tank, it will not function properly and the waste will back up into your home or yard. Pumping the septic tank removes the accumulated solid waste so the septic tank can continue to do its job.
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
Most experts recommend that a septic tank be pumped every two years or so, but this can vary depending on the size of the tank and the amount of water used. If you recently purchased a house and no one knows when the tank was last pumped, it is best to have the septic tank pumped and start fresh.
Who pumps the tank?
Septic tank pumping is not a do-it-yourself job. In fact, it is actually fairly dangerous. Call a septic tank pumping services company near you and let the professionals do it. Additionally, when your tank is pumped, a professional can evaluate the overall health of the tank for you.
Septic tanks need to be pumped on a regular basis in order to function properly. Make sure to call a septic tank pumping company near you to have your tank pumped today.