Did you know you need to clean your septic tank regularly to maintain its functionality? Your septic tank serves your waste disposal needs well if you tend and maintain it. By pumping it regularly, you will also save yourself from ugly messes from an overflowing septic tank. But what do you need to know about residential septic tank cleaning?
Here are answers to the frequently asked questions about septic tank cleaning.
Why Do You Need To Clean Your Septic Tank?
The water draining into your septic tank has debris that sticks on the sides of your septic tank and the draining pipes. The dirt piles up to form several layers of sludge that line the pipes. Over time, these layers will thin the draining space and reduce your septic tank's functionality.
When the drain pipes clog, you'll notice the dirt backing up to your home through the kitchen sink or toilet. This situation is a tell-tale sign you should clean your septic tank.
Your septic design allows water to flow to drain into the drain field while the solid settles at the bottom of the tank. Over time, the solid waste will become sludge or slime, which piles to the top of the septic. You should pump this waste to improve your tank's functionality and prevent a messy overflow.
Can You Clean a Septic Tank by Yourself?
You can't and shouldn't try to clean your septic alone. Cleaning a septic tank involves a laborious exercise that only professionals can handle. You will also need special equipment and solutions to clean the tank. Only a professional will know what solutions work for your tank.
Besides, the EPA has guidelines on how you should clean a septic tank. You will need protective gear and licensing to handle waste management. You should only trust a professional residential septic tank cleaning company to clean and maintain your tank.
The experts have the training and knowledge to remove and dispose of all waste.
How Often Should You Clean Your Septic Tank?
Clean your home's septic tank every 3-5 years. However, you can clean it earlier depending on how much waste the tank collects from your household. The basic rule is never to let the tank fill.
Have your tank inspected by a septic contractor to be sure when you should clean your tank.
You don't have to reseed your tank after you clean it. If you continually dispose of waste in the system, the seeding bacteria will grow and improve the system's functionality. For more information on septic tank cleaning, contact a company near you.