How Often Should You Get Your Septic Tank Cleaned Out?

It can be easy to forget to have your septic tank emptied and cleaned out. The tank is underground and you may not notice how it differs from a sewage system. However, it is extremely important to clean out your septic tank or you may find yourself with bad odours or worse. It is comparable to forgetting to empty the bins.

A septic tank that is regularly emptied and cleaned out can last for decades. This makes it a reliable sewage treatment solution for the long term. The word 'tank' indicates that the amount of space where the waste can be stored is not infinite, so it's not uncommon for people to ask how often you should have your septic tank cleaned out.

So When Should I Get My Septic Tank Cleaned Out?

Broadly speaking, it's a good idea to have your septic tank emptied and cleaned every 3-5 years. However, there are some factors that may have an impact on this:

• Tank size - Smaller tanks may need more frequent cleaning.
• Usage - How many people are there in your household?
• What is being flushed - Certain items could cause blockages that will need to be addressed.

How Can I Tell If My Septic Tank Is Full?

There are a few very clear signs to look out for that tell you your septic tank needs to be emptied. Some are very urgent, and some are less urgent.

1. Slow Drains

If your drains appear to be working slower than usual, it could be an indicator that the system is clogged somewhere. The same goes for toilets and sinks. It could mean that your septic tank is full.

2. Pooling Water

Have you seen some unexplained pools of water on your lawn? If they're close to your septic tank, it could be overflowing. A full tank will force waste up to the surface, so unexplained puddles on the grass might mean you need to have it emptied.

3. Bad Smells

All dirty water goes into your septic tank, whether from washing dishes, showering, using the toilet or cleaning clothes. This mixture results in a nasty odour, so if you are detecting an unpleasant smell then your tank may be full.

4. Backed-up Sewage

This is the most urgent sign, and it's bad for your nose and your wallet. When your sewage system starts backing up, your septic tank must be emptied right away. It's always the lowest drains that go first, so check them regularly.

The Importance Of Cleaning Regularly

A septic tank is not cheap, and if it has to be repaired or replaced, it will be costly. Taking care of your septic tank can make it last a very long time, and regular cleaning eliminates the risk of any unpleasant surprises.

Failure to do so will cause the tank to reach capacity and clog its feeding pipe. As a septic tank owner, you have a responsibility to prevent this from happening. Wet Waste specialises in septic tank cleaning on the Gold Coast and Brisbane, with 25 years of experience in the business.

If your septic tank has not been cleaned in a while, get in touch and book it in with us.