One of the most important things to know about living with a septic tank is that that you have to have the tank cleaned out before it gets too full. Septic pumping is something that should be done on schedule rather than waiting until you see signs of the tank backing up. Here are three things you might want to know about septic pumping.

1. The Tank Can Be Pumped Any Time Of The Year

Septic services work all year long, but pumping a tank in the winter is a lot less convenient than pumping it during a milder season. Plus, if the weather is extreme, there could be delays during a harsh winter. The good thing about pumping your tank on a set schedule is that you can set the date far in advance and avoid the winter season completely for routine service calls.

If the tank lid is buried under frozen snow or if the ground is frozen, getting to the tank to pump it is more difficult, and the work could cost more. This problem is eliminated by scheduling the work during a month with milder weather.

2. Pumping The Tank On Time Protects The Groundwater

If you also have a well on your property for drinking water, you are probably protective of the water quality and try to avoid contamination. One risk of putting off having your tank pumped is that the tank will overflow and contaminate the soil or groundwater.

You can safely have a septic system and water well on your property as long as you follow codes about how close to place them. Wastewater from the septic tank flows to a drainfield where the water is filtered to make it safe by the time it reaches the groundwater. Solid waste is not meant to enter the drainfield or escape the tank except through the hose while the tank is being pumped.

If solids escape, your drainfield might be ruined, sewage could collect in your yard, and your groundwater could become contaminated. For that reason, it's good to pump your tank well before it gets so full that it starts backing up.

3. Lifestyle Changes Affect Pumping Frequency

If you live alone, your tank won't need to be pumped out as often as it would if you live with a family. If the number of people living in your house increases or if you add a garbage disposal, the septic tank will fill up faster than you might anticipate. Always take changing lifestyle factors into account and increase the frequency of septic pumping when necessary.

Learn the signs to watch for so you know if your tank is getting full. Your drains and toilets may start to be slow to empty. You might notice a sewer odor around your house. Sewage could even flow in your house or yard if the tank is too full, so you'll want to catch the signs before then.

To learn more, contact a resource like G and T Services LLC.