About Me

Septic Solutions: An Introduction

I recently bought a house with a septic tank for the very first time. I thought I was prepared, but I really had no idea what I was getting into. Shortly after we moved in, the septic tank backed up. I had to call for emergency septic services to have it pumped and taken care of. That's when I learned that I had overlooked some of the signs that the tank needed to be emptied. I created this site to share my experience and the tips that I learned along the way. My goal is to help others avoid the same septic problems that I have dealt with.

Search

Categories

Latest Posts

Septic Solutions: An Introduction

Your First Time Having A Septic Tank Pumped

by Camila Pena

In cities and larger suburbs, homes are often connected to a public sewer system. But in more rural areas, it is common for homes to have their own septic tanks. These tanks hold household waste and wastewater, gradually allowing it to leech out into the surrounding soil. Every few years, though, a septic tank needs to be pumped out so the solids can be removed from the bottom. Here are some tips to help guide you the first time you have your septic tank pumped.

Get several quotes. 

In most areas where septic systems are commonplace, there are several pumping companies you can choose from. Get prices from at least two or three companies so you can comparison shop and hire the company that offers the best value. This may not be the company that offers the cheapest price. For instance, one company may charge a little more but may include a free septic inspection in their service. Or, one company may give you a discounted rate if you pay up-front for two or three pumping sessions.

Locate your septic tank.

If possible, you want to determine where your septic tank is located before the pumping professionals arrive. Some septic tanks have visible lids that you can see above ground. You may also have to look at your home's plans or drawings to determine where the tank is. Once you find it, mark it with a flag or some paint so the pumping company can easily locate it.

Be there, if possible.

Most septic pumping companies will be happy to come to pump your septic tank when you're not home as long as you can arrange for remote payment. But if this is your first time having your tank pumped, it is best to be on-site, if possible. This way, you can talk to the contractor about the condition of your tank, how often they recommend having it pumped going forward, and how to best maintain your tank. They may give you advice as to what you should and should not flush, how to tell when your tank is full, and so forth.

If you follow the advice above the first time you have your septic tank pumped, you should be set. Before long, you will get used to living with and caring for a septic tank, and it won't seem like such a change from living in a home with a sewer connection. 

Contact septic tank pumping services to learn more. 

Share