Septic Tank Pumping: 3 Signs That Your Tank Is Getting Full
There are so many different variables that can influence how quickly your septic tank fills. As a result, you will find that the frequency with which you require septic tank pumping services can vary over the years. This makes it impossible to rely solely on your calendar to let you know it's time to have your tank pumped. Thankfully, there are some warning signs that can alert you to the need for septic tank pumping. You can discover more about three of these warning signs by continuing to read below.
#1: You Can Smell Your Tank
Typically, you will not be able to smell the solid waste inside your septic tank. However, this often changes as your septic tank gets closer to being at full capacity. There are two reasons for this. First, as your septic tank gets fuller, more and more wastewater will be released into your drain field to help make more room for incoming waste. Oftentimes, small amounts of sludge or sewage will be released along with this water if your tank is almost full. Secondly, the fuller your tank is, the closer the solid waste will be to the ground. This can result in the ability to smell this waste even if it is still safely being held inside your tank. If you find that you can smell the contents of your septic tank, you can be sure that it is either time to have this tank pumped or to get it repaired.
#2: Your Drains Are Running Noticeably Slower
A septic tank is designed to release wastewater into a drain field to ensure there is enough room for more water and solid waste to enter the tank. However, as your tank gets close to being full, this release of water may need to occur at the same time that new water is entering the tank. In this situation, it will take longer for your drains to empty into your septic tank. This can cause the drains in your home to run noticeably slower.
#3: It Has Been Several Years Since Your Tank Was Last Emptied
While you cannot rely on your calendar alone to inform you of when it is time to empty your septic tank, this does not mean that you should ignore your calendar altogether. Time can still be a good indication of when your septic tank is likely to be reaching capacity. If it has been at least a few years since your tank was pumped, there is a good chance that it could benefit from septic services.
