Your septic tank is a crucial part of your plumbing system. Having one means you need to take special care to keep the entire plumbing system healthy. You need to have the unit serviced regularly to ensure it's operating efficiently throughout the year. Part of that maintenance is pumping a septic tank. Here's what you need to know before your next pumping service.

Know How to Check if Your Septic Tank Needs Pumping

You don't have to wait years to have your septic tank pumped. If you run a busy home with a lot of family members, your septic tank may require pumping sooner than a home with fewer members. According to the EPA, you should hire septic tank pumping services if you notice the top of the sludge layer is within around 12 inches of the outlet or if the bottom of the scum layer is approximately six inches from the bottom of the outlet.

Know the Location of the Septic Tank

If it's your first time having your septic tank pumped, make sure you know where it's located on your property. The plumbing team will need you to show them. If you don't know where it is, let the team know in advance to bring the right equipment to locate it.

Make Sure the Lid Is Accessible

Once you find it, make sure the lid can open. The septic tank pumping service provider will need to take the lid off and pump the tank through an access port. The access port should be large enough to allow the pumper to move the hose around and remove solids.

Measure the Distance From Your Driveway to Your Septic Tank

If your septic tank is located in a remote section of your property, the pumping company must find a reasonable area to access it. Most trucks carry extremely long hoses. If your septic tank is very far from the driveway, it's not an issue as long as the truck can easily access it. If it's far and inaccessible, let the company know and remove cars and other objects from the driveway. Consider cutting the grass around the tank to make accessing it easier for the septic tank pumping professionals.

For more information about septic tank pumping services, give our team at Hodnett Septic Tank Cleaning a call today. Let us help you maintain a healthy septic tank. We look forward to hearing from you.