How Often Should You Schedule Service?
Most residential tanks need to be pumped every three to five years. That estimate depends on your tank size, household size, and habits. A three-bedroom house with a 1,000-gallon tank and four people living in it will fill up faster than a smaller home with two occupants. You’ll also need to consider how much water you use and whether you use a garbage disposal. Grease, food, and heavy soap buildup can push a system to its limit faster than clean water and biodegradable waste. Ask for a tank inspection during your pumping service. A technician can measure the levels and give you a recommendation. If the tank is already full when they arrive, you’ll want to set reminders for earlier intervals going forward. Commercial properties, farms, or rental units may need a shorter timeline. Any system that sees frequent use should be put on a regular maintenance plan. We help clients keep track of past service dates and gives reminders when the next visit is due.
Cleaning the Tank
Many people assume pumping and cleaning are the same thing. Both involve removing waste, but cleaning is a more thorough process. Pumping drains the tank, but cleaning breaks up and removes solids stuck to the walls and bottom of the tank. Heavy sludge can form compacted layers that don’t come out through suction alone. In these cases, pressurized water or specialized tools may be used to break up stubborn deposits. Skipping the cleaning step means those buildups stay behind and reduce the usable volume of your tank. Cleaning also gives technicians a better look inside the tank. Cracks, corrosion, or signs of root intrusion can go unnoticed if sludge isn’t fully cleared. When your tank is properly cleaned, it operates at full capacity, and future issues can be caught early. If your tank has never been cleaned and it's more than 10 years old, it's probably overdue.
What to Expect From a Professional Visit
Septic service in Greensboro, NC starts with locating and exposing the tank. If you don’t have a riser installed, the technician will need to dig to reach the access lid. Once opened, they’ll inspect the condition of the tank, measure scum and sludge levels, and begin pumping. A vacuum truck removes the waste, and the technician watches the flow to check for signs of blockage. If the system needs to be cleaned, they’ll spray down the interior and agitate hardened solids to remove them completely. The process usually takes one to two hours, depending on the tank's size and how easy it is to access. After the tank is emptied and rinsed, you’ll receive a summary of what was found, how much was pumped, and any recommended septic tank repairs. If you’re unsure how often to schedule future service or if you want to improve system health, most techs are happy to share tips. They may also suggest installing risers for easier future access or adding baffle filters if needed.
Is It Time for Septic Maintenance?
Do you want to keep your system working, protect your drainfield, and avoid messy surprises? Call Us. Our team respects your property, shows up on time, and explains exactly what your system needs. If it’s been a while since your last service, or if you’re noticing slow drains or strong odors, it’s time to schedule an appointment and get your system back on track.
