When it comes to septic systems, septic cleaning and septic pumping are often used interchangeably. Both terms refer to the regular maintenance that all septic tanks need to stay in good condition and keep doing their job, and even some companies that offer both services fail to make distinctions between them. And yet, there are differences between having your septic tank cleaned and having it pumped. Let’s take a look at those differences and discuss when you might need each service.
Septic Tank Pumping
Septic pumping is the process of removing liquid, sludge, and solid waste floating near the top of a septic tank. The goal is to clear up space and keep it from overflowing and to keep solid waste and sludge from settling at the bottom of the tank. This is done with a large hose that is inserted into the manhole of the septic tank. The excess liquid, sludge, and solid waste are pumped through the hose into a tanker truck for disposal.
When most people think about septic tank cleaning and maintenance, septic pumping is what likely comes to mind. The EPA recommends pumping a septic tank at least once every three to five years, although your tank should at least be inspected once every one to three years. If you have a smaller septic tank or you have a large household that uses a lot of water, you may need to have it pumped more frequently. In any case, pumping your septic tank regularly will help prevent solid waste and sludge from building up inside of it. This buildup can cause problems down the road and prevent your septic system from working properly.
Septic Tank Cleaning
Septic cleaning is similar to septic pumping in that wastewater and sludge are removed from a septic tank. The biggest difference is that a septic cleaning service is much more thorough. During a septic tank cleaning, all the liquid and sludge are removed, and the tank is completely emptied. This is much better for your septic system overall because it removes all the sludge and solid waste that could cause a blockage. This includes sludge that may be stuck to the inside walls of the tank or anything that may have settled to the bottom. Meanwhile, pumping a septic tank will only remove a portion of this sludge.
Important Factors to Consider
When it comes to cleaning or pumping your septic tank, there are important factors that you need to consider. First of all, you need to know when it’s time to have your tank cleaned. Your tank should at least be pumped or cleaned every three to five years, but it may need to be serviced more often if you have a large household or if you use a lot of water. In other words, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution when it comes to how often a septic tank should be serviced, but having it serviced once every three to five years is a good guideline.
If you’re not sure whether or not it’s time to have your septic tank cleaned or pumped, look for some of the following signs:
- Foul smells coming from your drains
- Backed-up drains
- Gurgling noises coming from your home’s drains
- Frequently clogged drains
You might also notice signs of trouble in your backyard where your septic tank is buried. If your tank is leaking or overflowing, you might notice pools of standing water near the tank. The grass around your tank and drain field might be greener and healthier than the rest of your yard. Of course, you’ll likely notice the foul smell of the sewage from the tank. All of these are signs that there is something wrong with your septic tank, especially if it’s been longer than a few years since you’ve had it serviced. Call for septic repair service if you notice them.
Call Winfrey Plumbing for Your Septic System Needs
Whether it’s been a few years since your septic tank was serviced or you suspect that it needs to be cleaned or pumped, Winfrey Plumbing will be happy to assist you. We have been providing top-notch plumbing services in Omaha and Grand Island, NE since 1962, from common sewer and drain services to septic, plumbing repairs, and more. We always make our customers’ comfort and satisfaction our top priority.
For more information about our septic cleaning and pumping services in Omaha or Grand Island today, contact Winfrey Plumbing.
Today
