If you have a septic tank on your property, it is essential that you take care of it. Part of septic system ownership is regular maintenance, pumping, and cleaning. If you have your septic tank cleaned regularly, you are less likely to experience frustrating and costly mishaps like septic backups and clogs. Here’s how to reduce the likelihood of septic repairs through regular septic cleaning.

What happens in a septic tank?

Before we get into why cleaning is necessary, you must first understand how your septic system works. Your septic tank is a large underground container that holds hundreds of gallons of wastewater, depending on its size. The tank is connected to your home through the plumbing line. All the wastewater from your sinks, toilets, and showers feeds into your tank through this line. When the waste enters the tank, it divides into three layers: solids form the sludge layer at the bottom, water is in the middle and the scum layer made of fats and oils sits at the top. Bacteria in the tank break down the sludge and turns it into liquid. Water flows through a pipe near the top of the tank and filters into the drain field through the soil.

What happens if you don’t have your tank cleaned?

A complete professional septic tank cleaning is recommended at least every two to three years. If you put it off longer than that, you’re going to be in for some major problems. Without proper cleaning, the solids in your tank can begin to build up, break down the critical components of your tank, and diminish your holding capacity. Pipes can start to clog if left uncleaned, and you’ll begin to notice your drains working slower than usual. All of this can lead to disastrous backups. When you have your tank professionally cleaned, everything in your system will be checked as well.

Don’t forget to call Affordable Pumping Services to have your septic tank professionally cleaned. We’ll help get you on a regular pumping schedule as well!