What Is Septic Tank Cleaning?
People often use the term septic tank cleaning in Fairfax County, VA, to mean pumping. They aren’t quite the same thing. Pumping involves getting rid of the liquid and some of the solids and sludge floating in a septic tank. Cleaning means removing all of the sludge, including the stuff that is compacted at the bottom of the tank, as well as all the water. In short, cleaning is a more thorough procedure.
How often should septic tank cleaning be done?
Experts recommend a septic tank cleaning in Fairfax County, VA, every 3 to 5 years. On this type of schedule, removing solids is straightforward and fairly quick. But the longer a homeowner waits, the thicker the sludge becomes. Then it is much harder to take out.
When is pumping enough?
Most homeowners have their tank pumped, not cleaned. This gets rid of the water and some of the excess sludge and floating solids. It reduces the level in the tank and helps keep it in good working order. This should be done every 3 to 5 years.
However, there is a major advantage that comes with an actual septic tank cleaning in Fairfax County, VA. It thoroughly removes all the accumulated sludge, leaving the septic tank fresh and totally emptied out of accumulated matter. It is easier for the septic tank to process wastes when it is cleaned regularly.
When should the tank be cleaned, not just pumped?
It is recommended that when buying a house, the tank should be cleaned. This starts the homeowner out with a completely clean tank and lets the technician give it a thorough inspection.
If there is so much sludge at the bottom of the tank that it interferes with the septic process, the tank should be cleaned, not just pumped. Sludge won’t break down by itself. The rule of thumb is to get the tank cleaned by the time the sludge level is at 8 inches.
If a homeowner is expecting a crowd for a party or other event, it is smart to get a septic tank cleaning in Fairfax County, VA. This will prevent a system failure, one that can have a major impact on the gathering.
What affects the condition of a septic tank?
There are three main components that affect how well a septic tank works and how often it needs cleaning or pumping. Check with a septic professional to decide when to get a septic tank cleaning in Fairfax County, VA.
Number of people using it. The more people using the tank, the quicker it fills up.
Tank capacity. The bigger the tank, the longer it takes to fill up.
What is put into the tank. Homeowners need to be careful what they put into the tank. For example, grease, solvents, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, medication and the like should never go into a septic tank. It prevents it from working properly and can lead to clogs and other problems.
If you have any septic system concerns, please contact the experts at SES Mid-Atlantic LLC, for help. Serving all of Northern Virginia, the professionals at SES are trusted, knowledgeable, licensed, and insured to provide septic tank maintenance.