Maintaining your septic system is one of the most important things to do as a responsible septic system owner. Department of Health recommends pumping of your tank every 3-5 years, depending on household usage. . The rule of thumb is whenever the sludge or scum layer reaches 8"-12" thick it is time for pumping. This regular pumping will help keep the system operating and in working order. More frequent pumping is recommended if you have a large family size or if you utilize a garbage disposal. As a septic tank fills with waste water, the heavier material sinks to the bottom. This septage or sludge gets thicker and deeper with time. On the top, there is a scum layer. As the scum and sludge thicken, without pumping, inlets and outlet filter baffles have the potential to clog causing sewage backups into the home and/or debris to be released into your drainage field.
The Stuth Company pump truck is equipped with a sweet smell additive option. Some businesses and homeowners as well, select this enhancement as odors from the pumping process are minimized and scented.
When Should Your Septic Tank be Pumped?Department of Health recommends pumping of your tank every 3-5 years, depending on household usage. The rule of thumb is whenever the sludge or scum layer reaches 8"-12" thick it is time for pumping. However, there is no single answer as to how frequently this will occur. Stuth Company recommends inspecting your septic system annually to ensure it is in proper working condition and to determine your sludge and scum levels.
The Septic Tank Pumping Process
To get your septic tank pumped, the access lids to your system will need to be uncovered or, if equipped, the riser lids must be accessible. If you are unable to locate your septic tank, you may request an as-built drawing of your system from the local health department or Stuth Company will assist you in obtaining an as-built. The as-built is a schematic drawing of your underground septic system and will help in locating the area of the septic system. If you are unable to uncover the septic tank lids, Stuth Company offers this service.
On the day of the appointment, one of our qualified staff members will arrive equipped to handle the septic tank pumping. While pumping your tank, we will inspect its condition and report the findings to you.
Some systems are more complex systems than others and may utilize a pump tank component. You will want your pumper to remove any sludge or scum accumulation from this tank to prevent it from contaminating the next system component.
Along with our professional pumping service we also offer: Electronic Tank Locating, Real-Estate Transaction Inspections, Operation and Maintenance Reports (monitoring), Septic System Repairs, Pump Repairs or Pump Replacement, Riser Installation, Sweet Smell Additive etc.