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Septic Tank Pumping Table Shows When to Clean the Septic Tank
Onsite wastewater sewerage system desludge schedule tables
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InspectAPedia tolerates no conflicts of interest. We have no relationship with advertisers, products, or services discussed at this website.
Septic tank cleaning or pumpout frequency guidelines or rules: this article provides a septic tank pumping schedule based on septic tank size and level of usage. This document explains a key point in how septic systems work: the septic tank & septic system cleaning schedule -
when to pump out the septic tank. We describe all of the reasonable methods for determining the recommended frequency for cleaning out a septic tank: using a cleanout frequency table, using objective measurements, using an electronic tank monitor. We also explain
what is septic tank effluent retention time, why to measure septic tank scum and sludge levels in sum we provide a comprehensive guide to answering: How often should septic tanks be pumped?
Green links show where you are. © Copyright 2013 InspectAPedia.com, All Rights Reserved. Author Daniel Friedman.
SEPTIC TANK PUMPING SCHEDULE - A Guide to Septic Cleaning - How Often Do You Pump Out A Septic Tank?
If you don't know where the septic tank is located, see SEPTIC TANK, HOW TO FIND. at TANK INSPECTION PROCEDURE we describe how to inspect the septic tank before, during, and after tank cleaning operations. Septic system maintenance and repair are discussed in a collection of detailed articles listed at Septic Tank and Septic System Maintenance. Also see SEPTIC TANK PUMPING PROCEDURE, our detailed step by step photo-illustrated guide to find, pump and clean a septic tank. See Septic Backup Prevention for tips to avoid a septic problem during times of anticipated heavy septic system usage.
Table I below lists the recommended septic tank pumping frequency according to septic tank capacity and household size. The frequencies were calculated to provide a minimum of 24 hours of wastewater retention assuming 50 percent digestion of the retained solids.
The removal of septic waste by cleaning the septic tank is a critical step in septic system care as it extends the life of the septic field. Even if you don't care
how septic systems work you need to know when to clean the septic tank by pumping out septic waste. Look up your tank size and number
of building occupants to see how often the septic tank should be cleaned.
Table I. Septic Tank Pumping Frequency in Years |
| . | Household size - Number of Occupants |
| . | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| Tank-Gallons | Septic Tank Pumping Frequency in Years |
| 500* | 5.8 | 2.6 | 1.5 | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.4 | 0.3 | 0.2 | 0.1 | -- |
| 750* | 9.1 | 4.2 | 2.6 | 1.8 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.6 | 0.4 | 0.3 |
| 900 | 11.0 | 5.2 | 3.3 | 2.3 | 1.7 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 0.8 | 0.7 | 0.5 |
| 1000 | 12.4 | 5.9 | 3.7 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 1.5 | 1.2 | 1.0 | 0.8 | 0.7 |
| 1250 | 15.6 | 7.5 | 4.8 | 3.4 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 1.7 | 1.4 | 1.2 | 1.0 |
| 1500 | 18.9 | 9.1 | 5.9 | 4.2 | 3.3 | 2.6 | 2.1 | 1.8 | 1.5 | 1.3 |
| 1750 | 22.1 | 10.7 | 6.9 | 5.0 | 3.9 | 3.1 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 1.9 | 1.6 |
| 2000 | 25.4 | 12.4 | 8.0 | 5.9 | 4.5 | 3.7 | 3.1 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 2.0 |
| 2250 | 28.6 | 14.0 | 9.1 | 6.7 | 5.2 | 4.2 | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.6 | 2.3 |
| 2500 | 30.9 | 15.6 | 10.2 | 7.5 | 5.9 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.6 |
NOTES to the Septic Tank Pumping Schedule Table:
- Numbers in the septic pumping table indicate septic treatment tank pump out in frequency of every nn years for conventional septic tanks, and
assuming for year-round occupancy of the residence. (This data does not pertain to simple holding tanks which
retain all solid and liquid waste with no treatment no effluent disposal system.)
- * These septic tank sizes are below the minimum size allowed in Pennsylvania and other jurisdictions. Florida septic tank pumping rules and Ohio septic tank
cleaning rules may be more demanding.
- Minimum septic tank sizes: Under current Pennsylvania law a 900 gallon septic tank is the minimum size that must be used for a home with
three bedrooms or less. If six people reside in a three-bedroom house, the tank should be pumped every 1.3 years.
If the same system serves a family of two, the tank would be ready for pumping every 5.2 years. Systems installed
before the current rules and regulations were implemented may need to be pumped more often, perhaps every year or less.
- Garbage disposers will increase the frequency of pumping. For example, if this same three bedroom house with six residents had a garbage disposal and was generally producing a higher volume of wastewater, the pumping frequency would be calculated as follows:
1.3 years - [(0.2) x 1.3 years] = 1.0 year. For more analysis of the effect of garbage disposers on septic systems see Garbage Grinders or Garbage Disposes and Septic Tank Maintenance
- Typical Septic Tank Pumping Costs: A typical fee to pump a septic tank is $200. to $300 to pump a septic tank up to 1000g in size, provided
that the tank pumping access port has been uncovered and is readily accessible. If the septic pumping contractor needs to find the septic tank
and then excavate the septic tank pumping access opening, expect to pay an additional $350. to $400. provided that no extraordinary measures
are needed. Prices vary somewhat by region. A part of the fee you're paying your septic pumping contractor is the cost to dispose of
the septage.
- For an explanation of the meaning of sewage levels in the septic tank and how that information informs septic tank pumping frequency, see SEWAGE LEVELS in SEPTIC TANKS.
Onsite sewage disposal system holding tanks, where there is no septic field, will need to be pumped
more frequently based simply on the rate and volume of septic waste inflow.
Portions of this information were provided by the Penn State College of Agriculture - Cooperative Extension.
We have edited and added to the original septic tank pumping guideline material based
on research and field experience testing, inspecting, and installing septic systems and based on study of other reference sources
on septic system maintenance and design.
Septic Tank Pumping Frequency Guideline, based on Objective Data Not Guessing
Because we wanted to give an objective, measurement-data based alternative to simple use of the septic tank cleanout frequency table above, here we explain how to use the actual scum and sludge thickness to decide that a septic tank needs to be cleaned more often or less often. Complete details of this approach are found at MEASURE SCUM & SLUDGE.
The table of septic tank sizes and number of household occupants as a good rule of thumb guide to how often a septic tank should be cleaned out well for most people.
For a better understanding of the condition of the septic system, when the septic tank is pumped, it should also be inspected by the pumper - in a series of steps
- beginning before anything is touched (is the tank cover safe, is the tank damaged, leaky, are the baffles lost or damaged, has the tank been flooded),
- during the septic tank pump-out (subjectively how thick were the scum and sludge layers, was there effluent backflow into the tank during pumpdown)
- after completion of the septic tank cleanout (is the tank cracked, tipped, damaged, are the inlet and outlet baffles intact)
The answers to those more detailed septic tank condition inspection questions (and more listed at SEPTIC TANK INSPECTION PROCEDURE) give important information about the condition of the septic tank as well as the drainfield or soakaway bed, and can suggest repairs that can extend the life and safety of the system.
For the most objective approach to a very accurate septic tank pumping or cleanout frequency guide do this:
 Either immediately if your septic tank is past due for cleaning, or at the next scheduled septic tank cleanout otherwise, ask the septic contractor to actually measure the thickness of the settled sludge and floating scum layer in the septic tank. To understand just how these measurements are made, see our description of the whole process beginning at MEASURE SCUM & SLUDGE. That article series includes complete details such as:
Illustration courtesy Carson Dunlop Associates
At a Septic Tank Cleanout, Actual Septic Tank Measurements Will Tell You When Next to Pump the Septic Tank
The dashed "effluent" area shown in our septic tank illustration at left is also referred to as the "net free area" in the septic tank. When this area becomes too small the result is that wastewater entering the septic tank won't have enough settling time or septic effluent retention time for the solids to be broken down, sink into sludge, rise and coagulate into floating scum. If the septic tank net free area is too small and settling time too short, the result is that solid waste is pushed out into the drainfield - where it destroys the septic fields by clogging the soils there.
How to Interpret the Meaning of Septic Tank Sludge & Scum Layer Thicknesses in Deciding When to Next Pump the Tank
In simplest terms, if you open and pump a septic tank on the schedule recommended in the table above, then based on what sludge and scum layer thicknesses you find, you are going to pump the septic tank sooner next time, or you are going to be able to wait longer for the next cleanout, provided that other conditions such as number of building occupants or wastewater usage levels don't change.
Septic tank pumpout example - 3 occupants, 1250 gallon tank, pumped 5 years ago - cleanout interval can be extended
A household of three people is served by a 1250-gallon septic tank. The tank was last pumped five years ago. According to the septic tank cleaning schedule table above on this page, the tank should have been pumped after 4.8 years - so we are a little bit late. So we get our septic contractor over promptly and she opens the septic tank, inspects, pumps, cleans, and inspects again.
The septic contractor reports no evidence of failure, damage, problem with the tank. She also says that the tank had just about 3-inches thickness of settled sludge on the tank bottom - not much - and the floating scum layer was just 4-inches thick - very little in her opinion.
With this data, and if site or usage conditions don't change, you should be able to safely go another five years before the next pumpout, and could probably extend that to seven years (in my OPINION).
At the next (extended septic tank cleanout), check the sludge and scum thicknesses again. If they are still close to what you found in this cleanout, you're operating the septic tank safely.
Septic tank pumpout example - 3 occupants, 1250 gallon tank, pumped 5 years ago - cleanout interval needs to be shortened
A household of three people is served by a 1250-gallon septic tank. The tank was last pumped five years ago. According to the septic tank cleaning schedule table above on this page, the tank should have been pumped after 4.8 years - so we are a little bit late. So we get our septic contractor over promptly and she opens the septic tank, inspects, pumps, cleans, and inspects again. Just like the case above.
But this time the contractor says: Geez your septic tank was packed with sludge and scum - you had less than six inches between the bottom of the septic tank outlet baffle and the top of the settled sludge layer - your tank was "full".
In this case, and if site or usage conditions don't change, you need to start pumping the septic tank more often than every 4.8 years, - try 3.5 years or less next time.
As we elaborate at MEASURE SCUM & SLUDGE,
Similar rules of thumb offered by USDA on how much sludge or scum mean the septic tank needs cleaning include:
- Pump the septic tank when the total depth of scum plus sludge layers equals one-third of the depth of the tank
or
- Pump the septic tank when the bottom of the septic tank outlet baffle has less than three inches of clearance from the bottom of the scum layer (this may vary depending on the length of your outlet baffle or tee)
or
- Pump the septic tank when the bottom of the outlet baffle is less than 6 inches from the top of the sludge layer found on the septic tank bottom
For a greater understanding of septic tank pumpout scheduling based on actual measurements, also see:
- MEASURE SCUM & SLUDGE. How to make the measurements & how to use them to see how often to pump the septic tank
- To understand at what sludge or scum layer thicknesses a given septic tank needs to be pumped, see What Scum Sludge Thickness = Septic tank Pumping is Needed.
- To understand how much septic effluent retention time is needed for a septic tank to work properly, see EFFLUENT RETENTION TIME As a typical example, if a family is sending 600 gallons of wastewater into a 1000 gallon septic tank each day, that septic tank needs a day of retention time to work properly.
- For an explanation of the meaning of sewage levels in the septic tank and how that information informs septic tank pumping frequency, see SEWAGE LEVELS in SEPTIC TANKS.
Also take a look at When Not to Pump a Septic Tank to avoid damage, unsafe conditions, or wasting money
Electronic Monitors for Septic Tank Scum & Sludge Levels Give Septic Tank Cleanout Frequency
Below at References we also describe an electronic septic tank monitor or grease trap monitor from Worldstone. These devices can track sludge, scum, or grease levels in order to best schedule septic tank pumping or grease trap cleaning. This product is suitable for commercial installations and possibly for some residential septic tank systems.
According to the company, "Data from monitors can help establish appropriate service intervals, and document maintenance for regulatory compliance. Alarm features can help detect abnormal conditions and prevent costly backups."The company also produces an oil tank level monitor.
Thanks to reader Robert Shirley for this tip.
OPINION - DF: this product is a great idea for commercial installations or problem septic installations. Substituting actual septic tank scum layer thickness or scum level thickness data for the septic tank pumping schedule table above may allow the tank to be opened and pumped less often - saving some money.
Watch out: But don't forget that regular opening and inspection of the septic tank, such as happens when the septic tank is to be pumped out or "cleaned", gives an additional opportunity to check for other septic system problems that could be leading to a costly failure, but that don't directly concern the septic tank sludge or scum layer thickness. Examples include the discovery of lost or damaged septic tank baffles, septic tanks leaks that allow ground water to flood the septic system, or septic tank leaks out of the tank. |
Alternative Septic Tank Pumping Frequency Guidelines: the University of Minnesota Septic Tank Inspection Frequency Point System
The University of Minnesota has published "Septic Tank Pumping Frequency Guidelines" that take a different approach than the cookbook table of septic tank sizes and number of building occupants shown in our table above.
But the document does not really tell the homeowner when to pump the septic tank. Instead it calls for essentially very frequent septic tank "inspections" to decide if pumping is needed, without, regrettably, explaining what that inspection would entail nor how that inspection would decide that the septic tank needs to be cleaned.
Watch out: In sum, we cannot recommend this chart's use as the best or sole option for deciding when to pump out a septic tank, nor does the chart actually answer that question, as we explain below.
However it would indeed be a "safe" approach to inspect the septic tank conditions at every one, two, or three years, which is the actual end result of this mis-named worksheet.
Septic Tank Pumping Frequency vs Septic Inspection Frequency - clarified
Instead of taking the widely-used septic tank size and number of bedrooms table approach, U.Minn. experts have provided a table or questionnaire that when answered, gives a septic tank inspection frequency in years. The appeal of this approach is that it allows a homeowner to take into consideration factors that would either increase or decrease the interval for septic tank inspection based on factors that increase or decrease the septic failure risks posed by the home and its usage. Unfortunately factors enumerated in the point-counting approach have some troubles of their own, as we explain below.
The added cost of annual to tri annual septic tank inspections might be weighed against the safety, fine-tuning, and "actual septic tank data" approach to septic tank inspection frequency we describe below, or the simple and easy to use septic tank pumping frequency table we provided above.
Watch out: the septic tank worksheet does list some interesting septic tank risk factors, as we elaborate below. However, overall the worksheet we reviewed underweights the septic tank failure risk of some factors and overweights or confuses others, and it does not directly address the risk of drainfield damage caused by flushing high volumes of wastewater (laundry, water softener) through the septic tank.
But the chart doesn't do that anyway. Although the chart's title is "Septic Tank Pumping Frequency Guidelines" it does not provide that information. Instead, if you complete all of the work and analysis in this chart, you end up at one of three frequencies at which you should inspect the septic tank condition to determine if it needs to be cleaned:
| Septic System Failure Risk Level Factors |
| Septic Worksheet Risk "score" |
|
| 0-8 = Low Risk |
2-3 year septic tank inspections: Evaluate the septic tank conditions every 2-3 years to see if cleaning is needed. In MN some municipalities require septic pumping or inspection every 3 years. Requirements vary in other U.S. States & Canadian Provinces as well as of course municipalities in other countries. |
| 8 - 18 = Medium Risk |
1.5 - 2.5 year septic tank inspections: Evaluate the septic tank conditions every 1 1/2 - 2 1/2 years to see if cleaning is needed |
| 19-26 = High Risk |
Annual septic tank inspections: Evaluate the septic tank every year to see if cleaning is needed |
Adapted from the U. Minnesota septic tank pumping frequency worksheet cited below at reference [5]
[5] "University of Minnesota Septic Tank Pumping Frequency Guidelines", University of Minnesota, 2009 for extra copies of the original chart call (800) 322-8642, retrieved 1/15/2010, original source: http://septic.umn.edu/prod/groups/cfans/@pub/@cfans/
@ostp/documents/asset/cfans_asset_126408.pdf [copy on file as U_Minn_Septic_Pumping_Chart.pdf] |
U.Minn assigns a numeric value such as 0, 1, or 2 or for some items 0-4 as the septic system load is likely to be increased. The homeowner adds up various risk number totals to reach a "risk score" that puts their system into one of three categories of septic tank "evaluation" frequency. "Evaluation of the septic tank " here means determine if it needs to be cleaned.
Evaluate the Septic Tank ?
What does "Evaluate the Septic Tank" mean? This question is not addressed in the UM worksheet.
However we answer this question in excruciating detail beginning at SEPTIC TANK INSPECTION PROCEDURE where we list many things that should be evaluated to avoid septic system failures or worse, unsafe conditions; or you can "cut to the chase" as mom says, and have your septic contractor open the septic tank and MEASURE SCUM & SLUDGE, to know objectively if the tank needs pumping.
Watch out: "Evaluation of septic tank condition" is not well defined. Experts generally agree that there are a number of inspection points including the septic tank sludge and scum layer thicknesses that determine that septic tank pumping is needed (or not) but that there are other inspection points that are very important such as evidence of backup, damaged baffles, tank flooding or septic tank leaks, and of course septic tank safety: safe covers, no signs of collapse risk, etc.
Some Factors that Should Increase the Septic Tank Pumping Frequency
- Use of a garbage disposer or food waste grinder increases septic tank pumpout frequency - we agree, but not all experts do. See GARBAGE DISPOSAL vs SEPTICS for details.
- Use of a sewage ejector pump connected to the septic system may increase septic tank pumpout frequency by adding macerated sewage that increases the risk of pushing floating solids into the drainfield. See SEWAGE EJECTOR / GRINDER PUMPS
- Use of a water softener or water conditioner such as an iron filter whose regeneration cycle water empties into the septic tank may increase the tank pumping frequency, though this is arguable in our opinion. Issues are excessive salt dosage that is going to reduce septic tank bacterial action but worse may seriously damage a drainfield; also the water volume itself can flood a marginal drainfield. See REDUCE IMPACT of SOFTENER on SEPTIC and also our discussion of the effects of SALT OR WATER INTO SEPTIC
- Frequency of use of laundry facilities; similar questions and arguable facts as with water conditioners. However installing a septic filter to keep fabric filters out of a septic tank or drywell can give significant benefit as can avoiding excessive volumes of powdered detergents. And as with water conditioners, the effect of water volume on the drainfield may be more immediate and serious than the effects of laundry water on the septic tank.
- The U.Minn. table adjusts the laundry impact on septic tanks and septic tank risk levels downwards if you
- use a water-conserving top loading washer or a front-loading washing machine [presumably they mean that either unit should be water-conserving]
- have installed low flow shower heads
- have installed low water usage toilets
- repair [water supply system] leaks [such as drippy faucets and running toilets] quickly
- use mild cleaning products & detergents and limit use of anti-bacterial products - in our opinion arguable as the level of antibacterial effect of at least some popular brand dish soaps has been estimated as trivial; I would have instead increased the risk level for constant or frequent use of antibiotics by occupants of the building, as nursing homes, for example suffer septic tank bacterial action reduction from that cause
- An in-home business that increases water usage (daycare, taxidermy, hair salon) increases septic tank damage risk - same arguments as we suggested above should lead one to be concerned about the drainfield when added waste water volume rather than added solids are present; some home businesses (photography or taxidermy) include use of chemicals that should not be flushed into a septic system. See TOILETS, DON'T FLUSH LIST.
- Having 3 or more overnight guests at a time or large groups visiting the home add septic tank risk; the table and approach does a poor job of distinguishing between 3 overnight guests once a year and regular extra sleepover guests; similarly, occupancies that place more than the usually-assumed 2 occupants per bedroom should cause a septic tank pumpout frequency increase
- Septic tank size vs number of bedrooms: here we are in full agreement about the impact of high number of bedrooms and small septic tank sizes, but adding risk points for "don't know" is a bit vague.
- Time since last time the septic tank was cleaned affects the risk level - we agree completely. The worksheet adds one risk point if it's been 3-5 years since last septic tank cleanout and 2 risk points if it's been more than 5 years. In our OPINION this is a ridiculously weak weight placed on this critical factor. We regularly hear from people who have lived in a home for fifteen or twenty years and don't recall ever pumping out their septic tank, nor where the tank is located, nor what size it is. Those are likely to be much higher risk situations than a 1500-gallon tank at a home with two people that was last pumped out six years ago.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the pumping or cleanout schedule for septic tanks
Question: Recent Septic System Repair / Pumpout
I had some work done recently and if I sent a picture of the work, can you give me an idea of the quality of work? BTW, I love your site. - Syd
Reply:
A competent onsite inspection by an expert usually finds additional clues that help accurately diagnose a problem. And certainly from a photograph alone one can't make a full nor accurate evaluation of the condition of a septic system.
That said, I'll be glad to look at your photos and if the initial Q&A is sufficiently modest I will reply pro-bono. Of course as you gave no information about the topic, I can't say in advance how much I can comment on the pictures.
Reader comment - followup:
I appreciate it. I used the information extensively when I bought this house. It is what clued me into the FPE panel I had and why when walking on the floor above the panel, the lights would sometimes dim (the breaker for the water heater was loose and arcing to the bus bar). I replaced the panel, breakers, etc..
Here are the specifics:
Built in ‘84, in TN
4 BR, 2 bath, split foyer.
Just my wife and I live here. Previous owners had 5 kids.
The washing machine is on a proper grey water disposal system. The dish washer will be added soon.
Here's the story.
What started out 2 Friday's ago with a day off, I called the honey wagon to pump the tank. I have lived here for nearly 4 years and when I bought the house, the previous owners had the tank “inspected” and were informed that the tank did not need to be pumped. They lived here for 7 years and never had it pumped or checked. Now, the truck shows up and we start digging. Turns out that its not possible that the people that the previous owners had check the could have. The amount of dirt disturbed vs what I had to dig was way off. So the truck leaves and I dig a hole that is 5 feet deep by 4ft by 3 ft. By hand.
Fast forward to yesterday, truck comes back and we open the lid. This is when we find out that its approximately 2000 gal precast cement tank with 3ea 2.5x4ft hatches. Apparently this is rather uncommon around here. Also find that the exit baffle is nearly disintegrated however still in place. There was not an input baffle, in fact, it was a pipe that just poured waste onto the surface. The scum layer was 5 to 8 inches thick. I do not know how thick the sludge was, I had to go to home depot to get some pipe. Also, the input was right next to the output.
The driver pumped as much as he could (truck filled, he was expecting a 1000 gal tank which is common in this area), he got most the sludge and scum, 2/3 total volume removed. He recommended that a piece of pipe 2 ft. long be added to the input and to add a 4 in pipe with a tee on it. His method for installing the tee was to use PVC cement to a 2 ft long pipe, stuff the pipe down the output and secure with expanding polyurethane (great stuff) foam. You can see all of this in the picture. The pipe leaving to the drain field is orangeburg.
Here is what I think I know to be true:
The tank was never correctly installed. I should have had the input moved and a tee or baffle installed. I should have asked him to come back to pump the rest of the liquid. I need to replace the orangeburg pipe soon.
So here are my questions:
Since the system has been running like this 27 years and not pumped in at least 11 (could be 27 as well), do you think ill get another 10, maybe 20 out of it? Since the tank is rather oversized and its only the two of us, I think its safe to say the system is not taxed that much. We put a half gallon of spoiled buttermilk down the drain each month.
Thank you again for your assistance and for providing such an informative site with ACCURATE information. Feel free to use my picture of a hall of shame or whatnot.
Reply: Buttermilk is not a useful treatment to add to a septic tank
About your note and photo - just in order of thoughts & your note:
7+4=11 years, probably longer than recommended for pumping the septic tank - see http://www.inspectapedia.com/septic/tankpump.htm
2000 gal precast cement tank with 3ea 2.5x4ft hatches - probably a good tank, certainly decent size; if the liquid/sewage levels were normal then the tank is not cracked, damaged, leaking.
It would have been better to pump the whole tank out completely - we don't know really if the sludge was adequately removed from tank bottom, though it's possible for the pumper to probe and measure the sludge thickness that remained.
It was absolutely correct to add the tee at the inlet - it reduces sewer gas and sewage backflow into the incoming sewer line; I'm not experienced with using expanding foam to secure the tee
if it works both to hold the tee in place AND there is no groundwater leaking INTO the tank at that end, you're in good shape.
YOU SHOULD open the OUTLET end of the tank and be sure that there is an outlet tee in place - this is critical to avoid sending solids into (and ruining) the drainfield
Orangeburg pipe: old, very old, questionable condition; I'd like to see any photos if you dig up any of that material.
If you find there was no outlet tee, combined with infrequent pumping and orangeburg pipe, you will want to be saving/planning for drainfield repair/replacement.
Inspect the septic drainfield area for wet spots, smells, evidence of failure.
Minimum steps:
- make sure there is an outlet tee
- inspect for evidence of field failure
- plan for field replacement
Desirable:
- finish pumping the tank; as you need to open it again to see the outlet tee side, that's an opportunity for the pumper to finish cleaning, though usually we see them pump from the center access if that's accessible
- install a septic riser over the center access port so that on next pumpout schedule you can clean the septic tank without so much digging.
I can't for sure predict how much life remains - a lot depends on level of usage, soil conditions. I've mentioned the tee - a predictor of field failure if it was missing.
Buttermilk is not a useful septic system treatment, though it won't hurt anything. You don't need to treat the system and in fact some treatments are harmful, even illegal. See http://www.inspectapedia.com/septic/septadds.htm
Reader follow-up comment:
I think I may have been misleading. The input from the house is the 3 inch pipe towards the top of the picture (under the shovel). It originally was just a 3in 90 that poured onto the top of the surface. The outlet is the field is the 4in tee. The input is now under the scum layer and does not have a tee. My picture shows what should be the output, however, when installed it appears that the contractor put the input on that side as well.
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Technical Reviewers & References
Related Topics, found near the top of this page suggest articles closely related to this one.
- [1] "Estimated Septic Tank Pumping Frequency," Karen Mancl, 1984. Journal of Environmental Engineering. Volume 110.
- [2] "The Soil as a Treatment System." Tyler, E. T., R. Laak, E. McCoy, and S. S. Sandhu, Home Sewage Treatment. ASAE publication 5-77, 1977.
- [3] Thanks to reader Robert Shirley, Calgary, for discussing alternative ways to measure septic tank sludge, including the relatively low cost electronic system on the market from Worldstone Inc. (SepticWatch) - a system to monitor sludge and scum and grease levels in grease traps or septic tanks - 04/20/2010
- [4] Worldstone, http://www.worldstoneinc.com/ electronic monitors, including via internet, for grease traps, septic tanks, oil tanks - manufactured by F.O.G. Solutions, 1348 Delta Drive, Saginaw, MI 48638, 866 279-2824, 989-928-1806, Fax 480-247-4983
"Worldstone Inc. is a Braintree Massachusetts based company that specializes in separation tank monitoring. Using established ultrasonic technologies, Worldstone’s GREASEwatch, SEPTICwatch and OILwatch monitors capture critical tank information and transfers data to city officials, end users or service providers creating a safer, cost effective solution to manual inspections. Data from monitors can help establish appropriate service intervals, and document maintenance for regulatory compliance. Alarm features can help detect abnormal conditions and prevent costly backups.
Worldstone monitors are currently assisting over 200 major restaurants, hospitals, prisons, casinos and city officials across the United States."
Septic Tank Monitoring:
"The SEPTICwatch monitor provides continuous monitoring of the sludge, scum, temperature and liquid levels [in a septic tank]. ... real-time information on actual changes as a percentage of permissible floating solids, bottom solids and total solids. It also provides the immediate status of the liquid level within the tank in inches. Using the monitor's programmable Control Unit, the tank's optimum level for pumping is set, so the tank can be pumped when it's actually needed. The [septic tank] monitor's Control Unit can also be programmed to warn of dangerously high solid levels and lower than normal/higher than normal liquid levels - emergency conditions that could indicate system failure."
Grease Trap Monitoring:
"...GREASEwatch monitor uses ultrasonic transducers and an embedded microprocessor to continuously monitor the sludge, scum, liquid levels and temperature in your grease trap. ... get real-time information on incremental changes in the levels of floating solids, bottom solids and total solids at the touch of a button. ... the immediate status of the liquid level in the trap in inches. The Control Unit can be programmed to indicate how full the tank should be before pumping, so there's no more guessing when it's time for service. The GREASEwatch monitor lets you plan a pumping level that meets your needs and protects your investment."
- [5] "University of Minnesota Septic Tank Pumping Frequency Guidelines", University of Minnesota, 2009 for extra copies of the original chart call (800) 322-8642, retrieved 1/15/2010, original source: http://septic.umn.edu/prod/groups/cfans/@pub/@cfans/
@ostp/documents/asset/cfans_asset_126408.pdf [copy on file as U_Minn_Septic_Pumping_Chart.pdf]
- US EPA Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual [online copy, free] Top Reference: US EPA's Design Manual for Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal, 1980, available from the US EPA, the US GPO Superintendent of Documents (Pueblo CO), and from the National Small Flows Clearinghouse. Original source http://www.epa.gov/ORD/NRMRL/Pubs/625R00008/625R00008.htm Onsite wastewater treatment and disposal systems,
Richard J Otis, published by the US EPA. Although it's more than 20 years old, this book remains a useful reference for septic system designers.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water Program Operations; Office of Research and Development, Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory; (1980)
- "International Private Sewage Disposal Code," 1995, BOCA-708-799-2300, ICBO-310-699-0541, SBCCI 205-591-1853, available from those code associations.
- "Manual of Policy, Procedures, and Guidelines for Onsite Sewage Systems," Ontario Reg. 374/81, Part VII of the Environmental
Protection Act (Canada), ISBN 0-7743-7303-2, Ministry of the Environment,135 St. Clair Ave. West, Toronto Ontario M4V 1P5 Canada $24. CDN.
- Manual of Septic Tank Practice, US Public Health Service's 1959.
- US EPA Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual [online copy, free] Top Reference: US EPA's Design Manual for Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal, 1980, available from the US EPA, the US GPO Superintendent of Documents (Pueblo CO), and from the National Small Flows Clearinghouse. Original source http://www.epa.gov/ORD/NRMRL/Pubs/625R00008/625R00008.htm Onsite wastewater treatment and disposal systems,
Richard J Otis, published by the US EPA. Although it's more than 20 years old, this book remains a useful reference for septic system designers.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water Program Operations; Office of Research and Development, Municipal Environmental Research Laboratory; (1980)
- Eco John® Innovative Toilet Solutions, Global Inventive Industries, Fountain Valley CA, PDF, product brochure
- "International Private Sewage Disposal Code," 1995, BOCA-708-799-2300, ICBO-310-699-0541, SBCCI 205-591-1853, available from those code associations.
- "Manual of Policy, Procedures, and Guidelines for Onsite Sewage Systems," Ontario Reg. 374/81, Part VII of the Environmental
Protection Act (Canada), ISBN 0-7743-7303-2, Ministry of the Environment,135 St. Clair Ave. West, Toronto Ontario M4V 1P5 Canada $24. CDN.
- Manual of Septic Tank Practice, US Public Health Service's 1959.
Books & Articles on Building & Environmental Inspection, Testing, Diagnosis, & Repair
 The Home Reference Book - the Encyclopedia of Homes, Carson Dunlop & Associates, Toronto, Ontario, 25th Ed., 2012, is a bound volume of more than 450 illustrated pages that assist home inspectors and home owners in the inspection and detection of problems on buildings. The text is intended as a reference guide to help building owners operate and maintain their home effectively. Field inspection worksheets are included at the back of the volume. Special Offer: For a 10% discount on any number of copies of the Home Reference Book purchased as a single order. Enter INSPECTAHRB in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space. InspectAPedia.com editor Daniel Friedman is a contributing author.
Or choose the The Home Reference eBook for PCs, Macs, Kindle, iPad, iPhone, or Android Smart Phones. Special Offer: For a 5% discount on any number of copies of the Home Reference eBook purchased as a single order. Enter INSPECTAEHRB in the order payment page "Promo/Redemption" space.
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- Inspecting Septic Systems: Online Book, Inspection, Test, Diagnosis, Repair, & Maintenance: our Online Septic Book: Septic Testing, Loading & Dye Tests, Septic Tank Pumping, Clearances, details of onsite waste disposal system inspection, testing, repair procedures.
- Advanced Onsite Wastewater Systems Technologies, Anish R. Jantrania, Mark A. Gross. Anish Jantrania, Ph.D., P.E., M.B.A., is a Consulting Engineer, in Mechanicsville VA, 804-550-0389 (2006). Outstanding technical reference especially on alternative septic system design alternatives. Written for designers and engineers, this book is not at all easy going for homeowners but is a text I recommend for professionals--DF.
- Builder's Guide to Wells and Septic Systems, Woodson, R. Dodge: $ 24.95; MCGRAW HILL B; TP;
Quoting from Amazon's description: For the homebuilder, one mistake in estimating or installing wells and septic systems can cost thousands of dollars. This comprehensive guide filled with case studies can prevent that. Master plumber R. Dodge Woodson packs this reader-friendly guide with guidance and information, including details on new techniques and materials that can economize and expedite jobs and advice on how to avoid mistakes in both estimating and construction. Chapters cover virtually every aspect of wells and septic systems, including on-site evaluations; site limitations; bidding; soil studies, septic designs, and code-related issues; drilled and dug wells, gravel and pipe, chamber-type, and gravity septic systems; pump stations; common problems with well installation; and remedies for poor septic situations. Woodson also discusses ways to increase profits by avoiding cost overruns.
- Country Plumbing: Living with a Septic System, Hartigan, Gerry: $ 9.95; ALAN C HOOD & TP;
Quoting an Amazon reviewer's comment, with which we agree--DF:This book is informative as far as it goes and might be most useful for someone with an older system. But it was written in the early 1980s. A lot has changed since then. In particular, the book doesn't cover any of the newer systems that are used more and more nowadays in some parts of the country -- sand mounds, aeration systems, lagoons, etc.
- Onsite Wastewater Disposal, R. J. Perkins;
Quoting from Amazon: This practical book, co-published with the National Environmental Health Association,
describes the step-by-step procedures needed to avoid common pitfalls in septic system technology.
Valuable in matching the septic system to the site-specific conditions, this useful book will help you install a reliable system in
both suitable and difficult environments. Septic tank installers, planners, state and local regulators, civil and sanitary engineers,
consulting engineers, architects, homeowners, academics, and land developers will find this publication valuable.
- Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems, Bennette D. Burks, Mary Margaret Minnis, Hogarth House 1994 - one of the best septic system books around, suffering a bit from small fonts and a weak index. (DF volunteers to serve as indexer if Burks/Minnis re-publish this very useful volume.)While it contains some material more technical than needed by homeowners, Burks/Minnis book on onsite wastewater treatment systems a very useful reference
for both property owners and septic system designers. We refer to it often.
While Minnis says the best place to buy this book is at Amazon (our link at left), you can also see this book at Minnis' website at http://web page .pace.edu/MMinnisbook
- Septic Tank/Soil-Absorption Systems: How to Operate & Maintain [ copy on file as /septic/Septic_Operation_USDA.pdf ] - , Equipment Tips, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 8271 1302, 7100 Engineering, 2300 Recreation, September 1982, web search 08/28/2010, original source: http://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/pdfimage/82711302.pdf
- Soil Percolation Tests soil perc testing guide and instructions
- Percolation Testing Manual, CNMI Division of Environmental Quality, PO Box 501304, Saipan, MP 96950
- Planting Over Septic System Component", Daniel Friedman (author/editor, InspectAPedia.com), The Innovator, Winter/Spring 2008, BCOSSA, British Columbia OnSite Sewage Association, 201-3542 Blansard St., Victoria BC V8X 1W3 Canada
- Save the Septic System - Do Not Flush These Items Down the Toilet, Daniel Friedman, InspectAPedia.com - PDF document, printable
- SEPTIC STANDARDS
- SEPTIC MAGAZINES
- Septic System Owner's Manual, Lloyd Kahn, Blair Allen, Julie Jones, Shelter Publications, 2000 $14.95 U.S. - easy to understand, well illustrated, one of the best practical references around on septic design basics including some advanced systems; a little short on safety and maintenance. Both new and used (low priced copies are available, and we think the authors are working on an updated edition--DF.
Quoting from one of several Amazon reviews: The basics of septic systems, from underground systems and failures to what the owner can do to promote and maintain a healthy system, is revealed in an excellent guide essential for any who reside on a septic system. Rural residents receive a primer on not only the basics; but how to conduct period inspections and what to do when things go wrong. History also figures into the fine coverage.
- Test Pit Preparation for Onsite Sewage Evaluations, State of Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Portland OR, 800 452-4011. PDF document. We recommend this excellent document that offers detail about soil perc tests, deep hole tests, safety, and septic design. Readers should also see Soil Percolation Tests and for testing an existing septic system, also see Dye Tests
- Grass is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank, Bombeck, Erma: $ 5.99; FAWCETT; MM;
This septic system classic whose title helps avoid intimidating readers new to septic systems, is available new or used at very low prices.
It's more entertainment than a serious "how to" book on septic systems design, maintenance, or repair. Not recommended -- DF.
- US EPA Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual Top Reference: US EPA's Design Manual for Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal, 1980, available from the US EPA, the US GPO Superintendent of Documents (Pueblo CO), and from the National Small Flows Clearinghouse. Original source http://www.epa.gov/ORD/NRMRL/Pubs/625R00008/625R00008.htm
- Water Wells and Septic Systems Handbook, R. Dodge Woodson. This book is in the upper price range, but is worth the cost for serious septic installers and designers.
Quoting Amazon: Each year, thousands upon thousands of Americans install water wells and septic systems on their properties. But with a maze of codes governing their use along with a host of design requirements that ensure their functionality where can someone turn for comprehensive, one-stop guidance? Enter the Water Wells and Septic Systems Handbook from McGraw-Hill.
Written in language any property owner can understand yet detailed enough for professionals and technical students this easy-to-use volume delivers the latest techniques and code requirements for designing, building, rehabilitating, and maintaining private water wells and septic systems. Bolstered by a wealth of informative charts, tables, and illustrations, this book delivers:
* Current construction, maintenance, and repair methods
* New International Private Sewage Disposal Code
* Up-to-date standards from the American Water Works Association
- Wells and Septic Systems, Alth, Max and Charlet, Rev. by S. Blackwell Duncan, $ 18.95; Tab Books 1992. We have found this text very useful for conventional well and septic systems design and maintenance --DF.
Quoting an Amazon description:Here's all the information you need to build a well or septic system yourself - and save a lot of time, money, and frustration. S. Blackwell Duncan has thoroughly revised and updated this second edition of Wells and Septic Systems to conform to current codes and requirements. He also has expanded this national bestseller to include new material on well and septic installation, water storage and distribution, water treatment, ecological considerations, and septic systems for problem building sites.
- The NSFC Products List has an excellent list of design manuals/modules available from their website or by telephone 800-624-8301
- Submissions welcome. send us a suggested document link or request an exchange of website links
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