Q: How often should I have my septic tank pumped?

Short Answer : Most septic tanks require pumping every 3 to 5 years (SCDES Recommendation) depending on usage, tank size and number of people in the home to prevent system failure. Pumping is needed when solids fill from one-third to one-half of the tank. The only way to know when this occurs is to have your tank inspected. We use a Sludge Judge to measure the contents and give you evidence-based recommendations on service frequency.

Q: After pumping do I need to "reseed" the tank?

No. We have all heard about "reseeding" a septic tank after pumping. Seeding means to jumpstart good bacterial growth by adding some interesting things. SCDES actually does not recommend reseeding because the simple act of using the bathroom provides all the necessary bacteria the system needs to make it work. Yeast, dead chickens or raccoons, manure, nor any other additive will not develop the bacteria colony any faster. We aren't sanitizing the walls and floor of the tank. There is still plenty bacteria in there after pumping.

Q: What are some good flushing habits?

ONLY 💩. 💧 and 🧻 should be flushed in your 🚽! Cigarettes, cat litter, feminine care products, grease, Hot Wheels, etc. DO NOT break down and decompose and should NOT go down the drain or toilet.

Question 1

How often should I have my septic tank pumped?

Accepted Answer

Short Answer: Most septic tanks require pumping every 3 to 5 years (SCDES Recommendation) depending on usage, tank size and number of people in the home to prevent system failure.

Pumping is needed when solids fill from one-third to one-half of the tank.

The only way to know when this occurs is to have your tank inspected. We use a Sludge Judge to measure the contents and give you evidence-based recommendations on service frequency.

Question 2

Why does my tank need to be pumped? I haven't had any problems.

Accepted Answer

Your septic tank is a storage and treatment facility in the ground. Bacteria aids in breaking down the heavy and light solids and form the sludge and scum layer. There is effluent (water) in between that flows out of the tank into the drain field and absorbed into the soil to be treated by natural process.

Over time the solids will build up. When the solids accumulate to over 30% of the tank's capacity it can begin getting into the drain field. The soil can experience a decrease in hydraulic conductivity- clogging and saturation. This essentially slows down the system and leads to failure. This is when backups can occur without the normal "I flushed too much toilet paper at one time." This can lead to costly drain field repair.

Imagine it like this: Would you never change the oil in your car because it hasn't given you any problems? Preventative maintenance is an economical price to pay compared to the cost of a new drain field. Plus it helps protect the environment.

Question 3

After pumping do I need to "reseed" the tank?

Accepted Answer

No. We have all heard about "reseeding" a septic tank after pumping. Seeding means to jumpstart good bacterial growth by adding some interesting things. SCDES actually does not recommend reseeding because the simple act of using the bathroom provides all the necessary bacteria the system needs to make it work. Yeast, dead chickens or raccoons, manure, nor any other additive will not develop the bacteria colony any faster. We aren't sanitizing the walls and floor of the tank. There is still plenty bacteria in there after pumping.

Question 4

What are some good flushing habits?

Accepted Answer

ONLY 💩. 💧 and 🧻 should be flushed in your 🚽! Cigarettes, cat litter, feminine care products, grease, Hot Wheels, etc. DO NOT break down and decompose and should NOT go down the drain or toilet.

Question 5

Where can I find more resources and information?

Accepted Answer

Here are links to SCDES and the EPA about septic systems that may be helpful.

https://des.sc.gov/permits-regulations/septic-tanks/homeowner-resources/septic-tanks-preventative-routine-maintenance

https://www.epa.gov/septic/frequent-questions-septic-systems#caring

Most Commonly Asked Questions

Question

How often should I have my septic tank pumped?

Question

Why does my tank need to be pumped? I haven't had any problems.

Question

After pumping do I need to "reseed" the tank?

Question

What are some good flushing habits?

Question

Where can I find more resources and information?