As a Floridian, you know that our state is unique in many ways. Our landscape, weather, and even our septic systems are different from the rest of the country. In this blog post, we will discuss how often you should have your septic tank pumped in Florida.
Routine Septic Tank Maintenance
There may be times that your septic tank needs to be pumped because there is an unexpected issue. This could be caused by any number of things, from issues with the septic drain field to blocked pipes.
However, even barring emergencies, you should schedule septic tank pumping service at least once every 3 to 5 years in Florida. This is due to the high water table in our state. The water table is the level at which the ground is saturated with water.
In Florida, the water table is only a few feet below the surface. This means that our septic tanks are constantly being inundated with water. Over time, this can lead to sludge and scum build-up in your septic tank. If this build-up is not removed, it can eventually lead to clogs and backups.
Pump frequency also depends on the size of your tank and the number of people using it on a daily basis. For example, a family of four will need to have their septic tank pumped more frequently than a single person living alone. Additionally, if you have a garbage disposal, you will need to have your septic tank pumped more often than if you didn’t have one. This is because food waste can accelerate the build-up of sludge and scum in your tank.
Why You Need Septic Tank Pumping
Your septic tank is an integral part of your property’s wastewater system. It is typically located underground and is made up of two chambers: the primary chamber and the secondary chamber.
Wastewater from your home flows into the primary chamber, where solid waste settles to the bottom while effluent flows into the secondary chamber. The effluent then flows out of the septic tank and into your drain field, where it is eventually absorbed into the ground for the final part of the process of removing contaminants.
If you do not pump your septic tank on a regular basis, solids will build up in the primary chamber and eventually flow into the secondary chamber. This will reduce the amount of storage space available in your septic tank and could cause your drain field to become overloaded. An overloaded drain field will not be able to effectively filter effluent, which could lead to groundwater contamination.
In addition, an overloaded septic tank can put unnecessary stress on your pumps and other components, which could lead to costly repairs or even replacement. For all of these reasons, it is important that you have your septic tank pumped every three to five years by a licensed septic company.
How Much Does Septic Tank Pumping Cost?
The cost of septic tank pumping varies depending on the size of your tank and where you live. In general, however, you can expect to pay between $75 and $200 for this service. Some companies may also charge an additional fee if your tank is located in a difficult-to-access area.
It is important to always consider the potential costs associated with not pumping your septic tank. In the worst case scenario, your septic system could be damaged beyond repair, resulting in the need for a complete overhaul of the entire thing. This would, of course, be far more costly than having routine septic service to keep everything operating properly.
How Often Do I Need Septic Tank Pumping?
The frequency with which you have your septic tank pumped will depend on a number of factors.
Size of the Septic Tank
One of the most important factors to consider when deciding how often to have your septic tank pumped is its size. The average septic tank has a capacity of 1,000 gallons. If your home or business has a larger septic tank, you may not need to have it pumped as often as those with smaller tanks. However, if your home or business has a smaller septic tank, you will likely need to have it pumped more frequently.
Number of People Using the Septic Tank
Another important factor to consider when deciding how often to have your septic tank pumped is the number of people using it. If you live in a house with multiple people, you will need to have your septic tank pumped more frequently than if you live alone. This is because more people using the same septic system will increase the amount of wastewater being produced and will cause the system to fill up more quickly.
Types of Wastewater Being Flushed Down the Drain
The type of wastewater being flushed down the drain can also affect how often you need to have your septic tank pumped. If you were flushing only water from sinks and showers down your drains, you would not need to have your septic tank pumped as often as if you were flushing water from toilets and laundry machines down your drains. This is because wastewater from toilets and laundry machines contains solids that can build up in your septic tank and cause it to need pumping more frequently.
Septic Tank Cleaning Versus Septic Tank Pumping
What is the difference between septic tank pumping and septic cleaning? Many people are not aware that there is a difference and simply assume that both terms can be used interchangeably. However, there is in fact a difference between the two services and it is important to understand what that difference is before making a decision about which one you need.
Septic tank pumping is a service that is performed in order to remove the solid waste that has built up in the tank over time. This waste can come from a variety of sources, but the most common is human waste.
Septic cleaning, on the other hand, is a service that is performed in order to remove the sludge and scum that have built up on the sides of the tank. This build-up can come from a variety of sources as well, but the most common is grease and oil. If these substances are not removed from the tank on a regular basis, they can cause serious problems for your septic system.
Septic Pumping In Florida Summary
So, how often should you have your septic tank pumped in Florida? The answer is every 3 to 5 years for most families. However, this may vary depending on the size of your tank and the number of people using it on a daily basis. If you have any questions about your specific situation, you should consult a professional septic company.
Call The Best Septic Company In & Near Lakeland
When you are searching for septic pumping near me or any other septic service in and near Lakeland, call Septic and Drainfield Depot. Our team of septic professionals is available 24/7 to assist with any septic or drain field needs you have.
Contact us today for free estimate.