I don’t know where my tanks are, how do I locate them?
If inspections were done when the home was purchased you should have received a pump card. A pump card is a bird’s eye drawing of the septic tanks that can be helpful. In most cases the drawing may not have the measurements. But it will give you a general idea of where the tanks are located. However, in most cases, our technicians are able to locate the septic tanks with a skinny prod.
I know where my tank is, but how do I locate the lid from which the cleaning is done?
Most tanks (excluding old and homemade tanks) have two openings: one at the inlet side and one at the outlet side.
Tanks are generally 4’X8’. Once the four corners of the tank have been defined, tank about a foot step towards the middle of the tank from the four foot end and you will likely be on top of the cover.
What if my tanks are under landscaping or a deck?
If your septic tank is under a deck, removal of the deck boards from the surrounding area often makes cleaning a breeze. If your septic tank is under landscaping, we recommend the landscaping be arranged around the covers. We also suggest installing risers. Otherwise, the extra depth of the tank may require an additional charge for digging.
What are risers?
Risers are extensions of the septic tank covers. They are often 24” in diameter. Installation of risers can save you time and money throughout the years. Risers simplify and speed up the cleaning process.
How often should a septic tank be pumped?
The purpose of pumping a septic tank is to remove the solid sludge that accumulates at the bottom of the tank, and the crust that floats at the top of the tank. Both sludge and grease can damage the drain field. Depending on your tank size, family size, and how much water usage each individual family uses determines how often you should clean your tanks.
The average family of four should pump their tanks about every three years. If you have two tanks, we recommend that you pump both tanks each time, however we do have customers who have found that they can pump the primary tank every time and the second tank every other time. This has been successful for some but not for all.
The volume of solids in the wastewater varies with such things as garbage disposals, and certain brands of toilet paper and anti bacterial soaps. These items can slow down the process of bacteria growth. The solids break down because of the bacteria in the septic tanks.
Do additives help?
A family with a garbage disposal (compared with one that uses a trash receptacle) usually dumps up to 50% more solid waste down the drain, and, therefore, would need to pump their septic tank more often.
No controlled scientific study has shown additives to be effective. Keeping up on the maintenance of your septic system is the best way to increase the life span of your septic system.
