Septic systems are designed to carry wastewater used by humans in their house and process it to be recycled in the environment in a safe manner. These systems operate off gravity which depends on the water to flow downhill. There are exceptions when the wastewater may be lifted up to flow to the next area. When that occurs, an electrical pump may be used.
Clean water flows into the house with pressure through pipes that are under pressure to toilets, sinks, bathtubs, water purifiers, washing machines, dishwashers and other appliances and outlets that water flows through. When water has been used, it flows through drain pipes until it exits the home.
The larger drainpipe that leaves the home delivers the water to a septic tank. The size of the tank depends on a few factors. The number of bedrooms is considered, along with the number of people living in a home. Also, if the home has a garbage disposal, a larger tank is recommended.
The average septic tank pumping recommendation is every 3 – 5 years with a 1000-gallon tank – 8 people or 1500-gallon tank – 12 people. Remember, every household is different, so the time of pumping could be sooner or later. We’ve seen homes that needed a pump 2 years in a row.
When the wastewater enters the septic tank, there will be material that will float and some that sinks to the bottom. Bacteria in the tank will grow and eat at the top layer. The remains will fall to the bottom.
Regularly pumping a septic tank is critical for maintaining the life of your septic system. A tank that has an overflow may contaminate your home causing undesirable circumstances. Routine maintenance of your septic system is highly recommended to protect your system and avoid backups.