How often should my tank be pumped?
All aerobic systems need to be pumped, but the frequency varies greatly from system to system, and depends on the system’s usage. Here are a few factors involved on how often your aerobic system needs to pumped out.
Size of the system
Systems with smaller tanks need more frequent pumpings than systems with larger tanks.
Hydraulic load
More occupants means more wastewater entering the system, so sludge accumulates faster.
Also, surges on the system (using a lot of water within a short time frame) can cause sludge to push through the system faster, causing higher sludge accumulations in the pump tank. This can also occur with drippy faucets and running commodes.
Decreased oxygen
The aerobic bacteria in these systems cannot survive without oxygen. If there is a lack of oxygen, the treatment of the wastewater decreases and sludge can accumulate at a faster rate.
Overfull system
When the compartments are overfull (such as when your submergible pump goes out), it can allow sludge to move more freely between the tanks.
Chemicals, medicines & oils
Cleaning services may use more and stronger chemicals to clean, which can kill the bacteria. Some long-term medication use can have a negative impact on the bacteria in the system, as well as fats, grease, and oils (including tanning oils, bath oils, etc.).
For 86+ years, Van Delden Wastewater Systems has withstood the test of time as the leading Wastewater System company, providing San Antonio, Boerne, and the surrounding Texas Hill Country with services you can count on now and in the future.
Call us for any of your wastewater systems needs and let our professionals help you with your septic installation and maintenance requirements: (210) 698-2000 (San Antonio) or (830) 249-4000 (Boerne).