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ALL septic tanks MUST be periodically pumped to remove floating scum and sludge that accumulates. Floating scum or sludge that is allowed to enter the soil treatment area will cause expensive and often irreparable damage. Pumping frequency depends on tank size, use, and operating condition.

The pumping frequency guideline calculation for a typical household will suggest a pumping frequency of one to three years. If the result suggests very frequent pumping, the system may need to be upgraded and/or household habits changed. Even if your risk level is low, you should still have your tank evaluated every three years. 

1. Do you use a garbage disposal or dishwasher with a food grinder? 

  • No - 0 points
  • Yes, use every other day or less often - 1 point
  • Yes, use at least once per day - 2 point

2. Is sewage pumped out of your basement to the septic tank (instead of using gravity flow) and/or is a sump pump connected to the septic system?

  • No - 0 point
  • Yes - 1 point

3. How often do you wash laundry?

  • Spread out during the week with no more than 2 loads/day - 0 points
  • 3 loads/day, several times/week - 2 points
  • More than 3 loads/day, several times/week - 4 points

4. Do you have a water-conserving top-loading washer, or a front-loading washing machine?

  • No - 1 point
  • Yes - 0 point

5. Do you use low flow showerheads, toilets, not leave the faucet running, and repair leaks quickly?

  • No - 2 points
  • Sometimes or have made some changes - 1 point
  • Yes, we make repairs quickly - 0 points

6. Do you use few and mild cleaning products and detergents, limiting anti-bacterial products?

  • No - 1 point
  • Yes - 0 points

7. Do you have an in-home business that increases water use? (such as daycare, taxidermy shop, hair salon)

  • No - 0 points
  • Yes - 2 points

8. Do you have 3 or more overnight guests at a time, or have large groups visit your house?

  • Never to once/month - 0 points
  • 2-4 nights/month and/or 1 large group -1 point
  • 5-8 nights/month and/or 2 large groups - 2 points
  • More than 8 nights with over 3 guests, frequent large gatherings in your home - 4 points

9. Is your septic tank (not including pump tanks) smaller than…
Tank Capacity  Bedrooms:

1,000 - 3 or fewer

1,500 - 4 - 5

2,000 - 6 or more

  • No - 0 points
  • Don’t know -  1 point
  • Yes - 2 points

10. Are there more people living in your than there are bedrooms?
Number of People:                              Number of Bedrooms:

3                                                           2 or fewer

4                                                           3

5                                                           4

6 or more                                               5 or more

  • No -  0 points
  • Yes -  2 points

11. When was the last time your septic tank was pumped or evaluated (inspected)?

  • Less than 3 years ago - 0 points
  • 3 – 5 years ago - 1 point
  • More than 5 years ago - 3 points

 

Add your TOTAL score and review with the risk level chart below:

SCORED 0-8

Low Risk. Based on your system and positive use habits, your system should be evaluated once every 2-3 years to determine if tank cleaning is necessary. Do not go more than 3 years without an evaluation. Some counties and municipalities require pumping or inspection every 3 years.

SCORED 9-18

Medium Risk. Based on your tank size and use habits, your system should be evaluated every 1 ½ - 2 ½ years to determine if tank cleaning is necessary.

SCORED 19-26

High Risk. Based on your tank size and use habits, your system should be evaluated annually to determine if tank cleaning is necessary.

*The guidelines suggest ways in which you can reduce your impact on your septic system. If you need help interpreting the results of the guidelines, contact us for additional service.