A septic tank should be pumped every 2 to 4 years depending on the condition and size of the tank and number in the household.

How A Septic Tank Works

A typical septic system, household wastes-including discarded food scraps, laundry water, cooking oils and grease-flow to a watertight septic tank, where they are decomposed by bacteria. In the tank, the complex food and waste particles are broken down by natural bacterial processes so that they can percolate into the subsoil surrounding a drainage field.

Inside the tank, the majority of the waste decomposes into sewage water, while heavier solids settle to the bottom and accumulate as sludge. Other lighter particles-including grease and oil-rise to the surface and form a scum. The decomposed sewage water then flows from the tank, through a distribution box and into a drainage field-a series of perforated pipes laid below ground in a bed of gravel. The liquid leaches out through the gravel and is further purified as it percolates through the soil. The more complete the decomposition of household waste, the more efficiently and trouble-free a septic system functions.

However, when a septic system is overloaded or not properly maintained, the bacterial decomposition can slow or stop, causing untreated liquid and solid wastes to overflow into the soil. Excessive use of bleaches, disinfectants and caustic or acid drain cleaners also deter the bacterial action of the system, and greases and solids can build up until they choke the system and block the flow of the liquid into the soil. When this happens, the drain field may have to be dug up and replaced-a costly undertaking.

To Prevent Septic Problems

Have your septic system checked-and the accumulated sludge pumped-by Roto-Rooter every two to three years.

Add Roto~Rooter® Septic Tank Treatment to your septic system to maintain a healthy, free-flowing system.

A Cesspool Needs Help Too!

A cesspool is nothing more than a deep well-usually lined with brick, stone or concrete-with openings that allow decomposed liquid to flow into the surrounding subsoil. Just as in a septic tank, organic waste is broken down before it percolates into the ground. If greases and solids build up due to lack of bacterial action, the cesspool drainage area can become clogged. (A good warning sign is the need for excessive pumping.) If the problem is not remedied, the entire cesspool probably will need to be relocated