You will want to have your septic tank pumped once every three years. This is for a typical household. For larger households or businesses, you may want to have it done more often. If you have a small household or a larger septic tank, you should be able to get it pumped every five years. 

If you’re unsure where your septic tank lid is because it’s been covered by grass or other items, we can help! We can follow where your septic line should run and use our tools to locate the tank. If you want to find it on your own, we suggest starting on the side of your residence where the septic line comes from your home, walk out far enough from the structure and probe around in the grass. Typically, a septic tank will not be located near large trees or other plants with a large root infrastructure. Also, if you have the paperwork from when your home was inspected before/at the sale, it should include a septic map with the paperwork. 

To begin with, there are signs of full septic tank:

• Slow drains
• Bad smell in the yard
• Thick, lush grass, only in certain places
• Puddles in the yard with little to no rain
• More flies around
• Pipes making gurgling noises

If none of these signs are occurring around your home, attempt to contact the previous owners. 

Lastly, (which could possibly be your first option if you choose) contact us, and we can send a technician out to inspect your septic system and let you know when your tank should be emptied next. 

Since most drain cleaners contain sodium hydroxide, they are often harmful to both copper and PVC pipes. Try to use them very sparingly as to avoid unnecessary corrosion in your pipes.

If you’re looking for a safer, more natural alternative, try this recipe:

Pour 4 tablespoons of washing soda into the drain and pour in half a cup of vinegar. When you can no longer hear any fizzing sound flush the drain with hot water.

Although there is a list of signs to look for (see below) with a failing septic system, it is often best to contact a septic specialist to have your system inspected! 

• Slow drains
• Bad smell in the yard
• Thick, lush grass, only in certain places
• Puddles in the yard with little to no rain
• More flies around
• Pipes making gurgling noises