In Fairfax, VA, a septic tank pump out should be scheduled every two to three years, as a rule. This is necessary for public health, but it is also a money saver for the property owner. When tanks are pumped regularly, the entire septic system lasts years longer.
Replacing a septic system is extremely expensive and inconvenient. It means digging up the tank, possibly moving to another drain field, and hooking up pipes. It is far more cost-effective to keep the one currently in use going for as long as possible.
What Is a Septic System?
Septic systems are in use throughout the area. They let people live miles away from a municipal sewer system, but still deal safely with wastewater. This comes from a variety of sources, including toilets, sinks, dishwashers, tubs and showers, and clothes washers.
The wastewater flows through the home’s plumbing system to the septic tank, which is underground. The heavy material in the water sinks to the bottom of the tank, where bacteria break it down. This is called sludge. Any grease and oil stays on top of the water. The water fills most of the tank, about 90 percent.
If there is too much water flowing into the system, the sludge is forced out of the tank, either into the drain field or back up through the pipes into the house. Either way, it is messy, dangerous to health and expensive to fix.
When to Schedule Pump Outs
Experts generally recommend every two to three years. If the house is used very little, as is the case with weekend homes, that can sometimes be extended to every three to five years.
But for homes with increasing use of the plumbing system, when more people are using it, it could be reduced to an annual septic tank pump in Fairfax, VA. The more people using the system, the more water goes into the tank.
Wondering if the tank needs pumping? Homeowners can get a septic system inspection. A trained technician checks the tank, pipes and drain field, and finds out how many people are using the system. He can recommend a sensible schedule that keeps the tank in good working condition.
Work with Professionals
The team at SES has been helping home and business owners since 1987. The community trusts the expertise of SES. The company has a reputation for excellent customer service, reliability and competitive prices.
SES regularly works with government agencies, businesses, property managers, architects, builders, planners, property developers and realtors. It has earned the respect of the Health Department and the Departments of Environmental and Natural Resources in Virginia, Delaware and Maryland.
SES handles all types of environmental projects, including:
- Septic tank pump outs
- Septic inspections
- Septic design and installation
- Well water sampling and installation
- Petroleum tank inspection, installation and removal
To schedule a septic tank pump out in Fairfax VA, call the experts at SES today.