How Often Should Septic Tanks Be Cleaned?

Wilson Services provides septic tank maintenance, repairs, and installations to Sparta, Andover, Jefferson, and the surrounding areas. Because repairs can be expensive, and the cost of a new septic system is even higher still, we’d much rather see our customers properly maintain their septic systems to save money and ensure proper function. Not only is it faster and less expensive, it’s also much easier than you might think. We’ll even give you a checklist to keep you on track!

Septic System Maintenance Checklist

Install an Effluent Filter

If your septic system doesn’t already have an effluent filter, it should. If it does, that filter needs to be maintained. The effluent filter keeps effluent (solid waste) from making its way to the drainfield, and it requires periodic cleaning (and occasional replacement). 

Maintain with Hydro-Jetting

High-pressure water jetting, sometimes called hydro-jetting, is a useful tool for septic maintenance. Over time, the oils, fats, and waste products that flow through your drains and toilets can cause significant buildup in your pipes. Periodic jetting — done in conjunction with pumping, or separately as needed — will help keep your system free of clogs and backups.

Pump Your Septic System On Schedule

Septic systems should be pumped every three to five years. That seems like a wide range of time (and it is), but the frequency depends on the size of the system and usage patterns. If you’re not sure how often you should see us — for pumping or any other form of septic service — give us a call and we can get you on a schedule that makes sense for your use and your needs.

A Quick Word on Additives

If you’ve Googled elsewhere before landing here, you’ve probably come across mixed information on septic tank additives. Some people swear by them, while others insist they’re vital to keeping your septic system working properly. In principle, they work the same as probiotics: introduce healthy bacteria to the system to ensure that it’s able to do its job. The problem is that, like probiotics, there are some near-miraculous claims made for septic tank additives, but the science is far more skeptical. Many of these additives are unproven at best, and at worst can cause severe damage to your system. Our advice? Stick to proven maintenance methods and leave the additives on the shelf. 

Some Things You Can Do

Besides timely maintenance, be sure to follow some simple best practices to protect your septic system between our visits.

• Use high-efficiency appliances, since these produce less wastewater and put less load on your system.
• Protect your drainfield, avoiding planting anything other than grass in the area, and being careful not to park cars or heavy equipment on or near it.
• Minimize garbage disposal use, since many food items can either contribute to clogs (like coffee grounds, oil, and grease) or can lead to more frequent pumping (root veggies or anything else that leaves large chunks that your septic system can’t break down).
• Don’t flush stuff that shouldn’t be flushed; this includes (but isn’t limited to) kitty litter, flushable wipes, hygiene products, and the like.
• Minimize your use of chemicals, since many of them — especially toilet cleaners, drain cleaners, medications, and solvents — will kill off the bacteria in your septic system.
• Don’t wait to make repairs or get service; if something goes wrong, pick up the phone and call Wilson Services immediately so we can nip the problem in the bud.