Maybe you’ve filed this topic under “Don’t Want To Know,” but you have a right to understand how to keep your home in top condition, and your plumbing and septic system is a crucial part of that. Next time you make an appointment to have your tank emptied, make sure you know what septic pumping services entail so that you can feel confident you’ve hired the right company.

An Accurate Quote

Septic tanks come in different sizes. Yours might be 1,000 gallons or 1,500, and there could be a price difference when a specialist is emptying it entirely. Ask for estimates that relate to your specific circumstances from a licensed and qualified company.

Preliminary Inspection

The first step is to locate the lid and excavate in order to access it. Before beginning to pump, a technician will measure levels inside the tank and compare them to the outlet pipe. This step will tell us if there are any leaks or problems with the drain field. If your system has electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components, they should be on a maintenance schedule, too.

Pumping by Hose

Technicians will lower a hose into the tank to vacuum the waste into a truck. A tool called a muckrake breaks up layers and stirs up the sludge on the bottom of the tank. This also breaks down solids so that the vacuum can pull them up along with liquids. Your septic specialists will keep an eye out for any backflow from the tank outlet pipe that could indicate complications.

Flushing Out the Tank

After vacuuming the bulk of your tank’s contents, technicians use a “back flushing” technique to dislodge any materials from the corners of the tank. Rinsing the walls with clean water helps to keep the tank from retaining waste buildup.

Post-Pumping Inspection

Once the tank is empty, an inspection will uncover any structural damages that could shorten its life. These include an open hole, damaged baffles, mid-seam leakage, or simple cracking. Your specialist will give you a report on any discoveries, as well as recommendations on how to proceed.

Update on Conditions

As a homeowner, you should ask any questions you have about septic services. When should you schedule the next pumping? How long will it be before you need a new tank? How can you prevent plumbing problems in the future? Your septic pumping services should also entail the answers you need to be a responsible and informed property owner.

Brandon Septic has been maintaining tanks and retaining happy customers since 1977. Whether you want no part of the process or are interested to learn more, we can accommodate your needs and keep your system moving. Contact us for a quote or an appointment in Florida’s Hillsborough County.