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About 21 million American households use a septic system. If you’re one of them, it’s important to understand your system.
You may be wondering how often your septic tank needs a professional inspection? Or how many times a year your tank needs pumping?
If you’re unsure of the answer, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about septic tank inspections.
When Should You Get Your Septic Tank Inspected?
It’s a good idea to book a septic inspection at least once a year.
If you’re selling your house, you should also get your septic tank inspected. Do this before putting it up on the housing market. You can increase the value of your home and avoid liability that may come with not inspecting a septic tank.
If you don’t get the tank inspected yourself, it’s the job of the buyer to arrange an appointment.
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How Often Should You Get Your Septic Tank Pumped?
Your septic tank will need pumping from time to time, but the question is: how often is that?
The University of Minnesota says the frequency your septic tank needs pumping will depend on its design. It also depends on the way your household uses the septic tank system.
Your septic tank should be pumped every three years. Every three years is the bare minimum you should go without getting your septic tank pumped free of waste.
Pump Frequency
There are a few things to think about when considering a septic inspection or pumping. Some questions you will have to ask yourself include, “How often do I do laundry?” and “Do I work from home; increasing my water use?”
Your septic tank may need inspecting or pumping if:
- Size of household
- Total wastewater your family generates
- Size of the septic tank
- Volume of solids
Septic Service Provider
When a septic service provider comes to inspect your septic tank, they will check for leaks in your tank. They will also examine the layers of scum and waste in your septic tank.
You should keep a record of all past and present septic tank inspections. To keep track of how often your tank needs cleaning, write down the level of scum and sludge inside your tank.
The worker providing the inspection and pumping should make note of completed repairs to the tank. And they should note the condition of your tank within their service report. If repairs are recommended, you should book a professional soon.
Getting Your Septic Tank Inspections
It’s best to book your septic tank inspections at least once a year. You should get your septic tank pumped at least every three years.
And your septic tank will need frequent cleaning or inspection if you live in a large family. As a homeowner, you should keep track of any routine maintenance and cleaning your septic tank needs.
For other articles on homeownership and plumbing, check out our other home improvement articles.
