What Happens When You Get Your Septic Tank Pumped

Have you noticed issues with your home's septic tank sewage system that indicate it is time to have it pumped? You may hear gurgling from the drains, have drains back up in your home, or have odors coming from the septic tank itself. If so, you'll need to hire a professional to come out and pump your septic tank to remove all of the waste inside of it. Here is what you can expect when you have this service performed at your home.

Locating The Tank

The first step will be to locate where the septic tank is located in your yard. Thankfully, some logic and tools can be used to help find the tank with ease. It starts by looking at where the sewer line exits your home since there should be a straight pipe that goes into your yard and connects to the septic tank. 

A probe is then used to determine the perimeter of the septic tank. This is done by sticking a long rod into the ground to come in contact with the septic tank, and then mark its location. This information can be used to figure out where the sewer line connects to the septic tank, which will have the opening nearby. The ground will then need to be dug up in the location where the opening should be, which will allow the septic tank pumping company to have access to the tank.

The process of locating and digging to get to the opening is typically a service that the septic tank pumping company will charge for. Thankfully, it is easy enough for you to do on your own if you want to save money.

Draining The Tank

The septic tank pumping company will bring a large trunk with a tank to suck the solid waste into. However, there is more to it than simply putting a hose into the tank and removing the solid waste. Since solids separate to the top and bottom of the tank, it is common to mix up the contents of the tank with a mixing rod, which helps remove the solids and liquids inside much easier.

Inspecting The Tank

The pumping company will also perform an inspection of the tank while it is revealed. They will let you know if there are aspects of the tank that are deteriorating, and what will need to be done to make repairs to keep the tank up and running for the future.

For more information on septic pumping, contact a company like Curry Plumbing, Septic & Sewer.