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Pumping, lids, additives and routine care.

A licensed pumper or septic technician should measure and pump from the surface, then haul septage to a permitted receiver.

Customers put it like this

  • when should we pump the tank
  • tank is due for pumping
  • is this additive OK?
  • lid on the tank is broken
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Stop first if

  • A lid is missing, cracked, loose or unbolted.Keep everyone back and block the opening. Call a septic technician.
  • Standing water or soaked ground surrounds the tank before pumping.Hold the pump-out. An emptied tank can float. Ask a licensed installer.
  • A tank is lifting or shifting.Stop work and clear the area. Call a licensed installer.
  • Anyone proposes climbing or leaning into a tank.Stop. Nobody goes in. All work stays at the surface.
01

Ask on the call

6

Homeowner? These are the questions a good technician will ask you. Having the answers ready makes the first visit count.

  1. When was the tank last pumped, and how much came out?
  2. How many people live there now?
  3. Do you use a garbage grinder, softener or any septic additive?
  4. Is it a holding tank, and how often is it hauled?
  5. Has the ground been soaked near the tank?
  6. Are the lids easy to reach and fastened?
02

Bring

6
  • Scum measuring pole
  • Sludge core sampler
  • Mirror and strong flashlight
  • Gloves and eye protection
  • Temporary barrier for open risers
  • Spare lid bolts
03

Check on site

6
  1. Pull the last pump date, prior readings, occupancy and products used.
  2. Look for standing water or recent heavy rain around the tank before pumping.
  3. From the surface, measure scum and sludge beside the outlet device in each compartment.
  4. Use the local rule first, then the tank maker's guidance, to judge when pumping is due.
  5. After pump-out, inspect shell, joints and devices from the surface with mirror and light.
  6. Fasten every lid before leaving, and block any damaged opening.
04

Keep on the record

4
  • Scum and sludge readings with date
  • Hauled volume, and water use for holding tanks
  • Product and grinder notes
  • Photos of shell, baffles and lids

General guidance for a qualified person, not a finding about any home. The person on site decides.