Four Things To Do During A Septic Pump-Out To Improve System Performance

Septic pumping is a crucial step in maintaining a soakaway system. It is the process of removing sludge, scum, and effluent from the tank to facilitate proper sewage breakdown and treatment. A pump-out leaves you with an empty tank that can accommodate more wastewater from the house. Below are four things you should do during a pump-out to improve the performance of your septic system.

Clean Both Tank Compartments

Dual-compartment tanks improve the quality of effluent sent to the drain field. The second compartment allows bacteria to break down waste that wasn't acted on in the main chamber. This allows clear effluent flow and protects the drain field pipes from blockage. As solids are broken down in the second compartment, some settle at the bottom of the tank. Therefore, after pumping the system, clean both chambers to get rid of non-biodegradable waste and solids. The cleaning process improves drainage and frees up valuable space inside the septic tank.

Check Output Baffle for Blockage and Wear

Soakaway systems have a pipe fitting known as an output baffle. An output baffle is a T-shaped PVC pipe that allows effluent to flow from the tank to the drain field. The output fitting's design prevents sludge and solid waste from flowing into the drain field and blocking the pipes. If the pipe is blocked, solids can end up in the drainage pipes. Therefore, after pumping the tank, inspect the output baffle for blockage. If the pipe is worn, replace it to keep solid waste out of the drain field.

Inspect Tank Components for Wear

A septic tank pump-out leaves you with an empty tank. This allows you to inspect the system and its components for wear and tear. Check the tank for cracks that could allow untreated sewage to seep into the surrounding soil. Also, inspect the tank cover for wear and corrosion. If the cover is damaged, it can pose a safety hazard on your property. It can also allow sewer odors to escape the tank and pollute the air. Therefore, replace the cover to increase safety around the tank and prevent air pollution.

Find Out When to Schedule the Next Pump-Out

You should carry out routine septic pumping every couple of years to optimize the performance of the system. If you fail to pump the tank on time, sewage can overflow and ruin your landscaping. Therefore, ask your contractor to recommend a pumping schedule for your system. The ideal pumping frequency depends on the tank's capacity, household size, and age of the septic system.

Do the above things to improve the performance of your septic tank. For professional septic tank pumping and cleaning, contact a septic service.