If you live outside of a main city area, it’s likely that there’s no city sewer line that you can hook up to. In this case, an in-ground septic tank is typically installed. It’s recommended that each household get their septic tank pumped every three years. If this is your first time having your septic system pumped, there are a few things that you’ll need to know.
Understanding Your Septic System
Before we dive into the details of septic pumping service, it’s first important to understand how a septic system works. All septic systems have a cylindrical or rectangular container that is buried underneath the ground. This container can be constructed of polyethylene, fiberglass, or even concrete.
Whenever you flush a toilet, use a faucet, or run your washing machine, the wastewater flows through your drainpipe to the septic tank. As soon as the wastewater enters the septic tank, it will start to separate into different levels. The solid, heavier matter will sink to the bottom of the tank. This is known as sludge.
The proteins, oils, and fats present in the wastewater will rise to the top of the tank. This layer is commonly referred to as the scum layer. Located in between this scum layer and the bottom sludge layer is the grey water level, also known as effluent. This is a somewhat clear liquid that is discharged out of the tank and into the established drain field. You may hear the drain field also referred to as a leach field. The grey water essentially degrades through the soil and acts as a fertilizer for your lawn.
Why Is Septic Pumping Needed?
As your septic tank fills up with sludge, it will need to be pumped out. If left go too long, your tank can essentially overfill and back up into your home. Calling in a professional septic service is a necessity about every three years to remove the sewage inside your tank.
When your chosen provider arrives, they will locate and remove the lid of your septic tank. If your septic tank was installed post-1980, it likely has two separate compartments that your septic provider will need to access. They’ll use a high-powered suction hose to vacuum up all the solids and liquids inside your septic tank.
Once all the tank matter is removed, your septic provider will use water to wash out the interior of your septic tank. This will help to remove any built-up solids that weren’t removed initially. After removing any excess matter, the tank will receive a quick visual inspection to ensure there’s no deterioration. Lastly, the lids will be closed up, and the service will be completed.
Common Indicators You Need Septic Tank Pumping Service
If you’ve recently moved into an existing Hutchinson home, you may not be privy to the last time that the septic system got pumped. It’s important to be on the lookout for some common signs that can indicate that your septic tank is in need of pumping service. One of the most obvious signs is that your sewage is backing up.
When this happens, the sewage will back up into the lowest drainpipes in your home. This means that first-floor sinks, showers, and toilets will experience the backup of sewage first. Raw sewage can be extremely detrimental to your health and must be addressed immediately.
Another key indicator that your septic tank is getting full is that you experience slow drainage. This will be a consistent problem with all of the faucets, sinks, tubs, and toilets throughout your home. As soon as you notice a drainage problem, you should get it looked at before it gets much worse.
Another obvious indicator that your septic tank is way too full is that you smell a sulfuric foul odor. This odor can radiate from inside or outside of your home. As your septic tank gets full, the gassy odor from your sewage will escape the tank. It can come up in your drainpipes or seep out through the ground outdoors. Either way, this unpleasant odor should be addressed in a timely matter to prevent further issues with your sewage system.
Call for Pumping Service Today
Hutchinson Septic Service offers top-quality septic pumping services for the entire Hutchinson, KS region. We can also help with all of your portable restroom, roll-off dumpster, hand washing station, and septic system needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our highly knowledgeable staff members.
