We don’t just “pump and run.” How much value are you getting out of your septic tank pumping services? Do they just show up, pump out your tank and leave? Maybe you’ve never thought to ask.
At Maznek Septic, we know that a thorough maintenance protocol is the secret to preventing a septic failure. And the septic tank is the heart of it. There are mechanical components within the tank that separate solids and keep them from entering the leach field.
These are:
- Tank baffles – concrete boards or PVC pipe that trap the scum layer
- Effluent Strainer – inserted in the outflow pipe; much like a kitchen sink strainer
- Effluent Pump – pushes graywater up to leach field on raised EDA systems
If any of these tank parts fail, solids can plug the leach field or cause to sewage back up into the house. This is why we inspect these every time we pump the tank.
Accurate scheduling. Sometimes a four-bedroom house only has two people living there, or occupying it seasonally. Conversely, a three-bedroom house may have extra occupants and septic use is more frequent. Prior to pumping the tank, we always check the solids-to-water ratio. This is important information, because it will determine our recommended pumping schedule. The only way to determine an accurate pumping schedule is to take a sludge sample to ensure the solids do not exceed 25% of the tank capacity.
Our complete septic tank pumping services always include:
- Triangulate/Document Location of Tank (first time only)
- Check Solids/Effluent Ratio – determine next recommend pumping
- Stir Tank – half-pump tank and stir solids on bottom
- Pump Tank Clean
- Clean Effluent Strainer
- Check Inlet and Outlet Baffles
- Clean Effluent Pump Chamber (elevated EDA’s only)
- Cycle Effluent Pumps (elevated EDA’s only)
- Reminder Postcard – sent in the mail prior to next scheduled pump
We leave your tank empty and clean. This is why we use a “crust buster” tool to stir the solids. Some septic pumping companies are telling their customers that it’s good to leave a little sludge in the tank to “re-colonize bacteria.” THIS IS FALSE! All the bacteria you need for the tank will be deposited on your first toilet flush!
Septic pumping services that use this tactic are charging their customers to remove a full tank; but they are charged by the gallon at the wastewater facility to dispose of it.