Is it Time to Pump Your Septic Tank in Boise, ID?

Being a homeowner on a septic system offers a sense of independence and control over your own water and waste management! A lot of Idahoans relish this feeling; unlike relying on municipal water and sewer services--and the monthly costs associated with these services--homeowners with a septic system have the advantage of avoiding water restrictions and fluctuating water bills. Septic systems are environmentally friendly as they treat and naturally filter wastewater on-site and help cleaned water re-enter the water cycle much more quickly. Like anything, septic systems must be properly maintained, and one of the most important aspects of keeping your septic system healthy and happy is getting it pumped regularly. By investing the small amount of energy to maintain a schedule and monitor for signs of potential issues, you can increase the longevity and proper functioning of your septic system, which can increase the lifespan of your system and therefore keep costs down. 

But how do you know when your septic tank needs to be pumped? Our experts at ASAP Septic are always eager to share our expertise, and today, we will be discussing the signs of when a septic system needs to be pumped. 

Sign #1: Slow Drains

When drains begin to take longer for the water to filter through, you definitely want to troubleshoot this issue. It could be a clog of normal debris like hair, but it may be a sign that your septic system is reaching its capacity and needs to be pumped in the near future. Septic tanks collect the solid wastes--sludge and scum--and allow graywater to seep into the ground. If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining more slowly than they did before, it may mean that the holding capacity of your tank may be met or exceeded. 

Sign #2: Foul Odors

Similarly, full tanks may not have as much space or leeway for waste or debris, and can lead to reduced flow and buildup inside your pipes. If you identify foul or musty odors coming from drains, toilets, or the leach field--the area where your tank drains into the ground--it could be a sign that the tank is full and ready to be emptied by a professional. 

Sign #3: Backup and Overflow

Sewage that backs up in sinks, showers, or toilets, or wastewater pooling in the yard near the septic tank are a sign that you have waited too long and must get your tank pumped immediately. Because septic tanks hold biological wastes, it is crucial that you take care of this issue as soon as possible. 

Sign #4: Unusually Green Grass

Have your friends and neighbors been complimenting that nice, green patch of grass that’s around the drain field? Although the ego boost can be nice, greener grass that appears healthier than the rest of the yard may be an indicator that the leach field is saturated because your tank is full. We all love a good, green lawn, but if there’s a part that’s very obviously thriving compared to the rest of your lawn, and it happens to be near or around your septic tank, it may be time to pump your septic tank. 

Sign #5: Maintenance Schedule

In general, septic tanks must be pumped every three to five years, depending on the size of your household, water usage, and tank size. If you know for a fact that your septic tank has not been pumped for a few years, it is likely due for pumping. Doing so preemptively can save you a lot of headache and stress down the road! 

Whether you need septic services for your home or commercial property, ASAP Septic is here to help! From providing general information to helping out with more complex procedures, we are the local experts on all things sewer and septic. We love serving our clients in Boise, Meridian, Kuna, Caldwell, Garden Valley, Middleton, Lowman, Payette, Mountain Home, Middleton, ID, and all surrounding areas here in Idaho. We have spent years specializing and honing our craft, and are eager to put our expertise to good use on behalf of our friends and neighbors. Fill out our online contact form or give us a call at (208) 991-7184 for a consultation or for more information today!