How Often Should I Have My Septic Tank Cleaned Out?

Guidelines for a Healthy Septic System

We've been in the septic business for over six decades and in that time we've pumped thousands of septic tanks - many more than once! One of the most common questions we receive about septic systems is simply, "How often do I need to have my tank pumped out?" For some homeowners, the answer is determined for you - it's however often your township requires it. If your township doesn't have a mandated pumping ordinance, it can be hard to keep track of how often your tank should be emptied or when you had it cleaned out last. (There's a reason for those township ordinances after all!) So if you live in a township that does not regulate pumping every so many years, make note: it's important to have your tank pumped out every 2-3 years. 

There are two major factors to consider when determining how often to have your tank cleaned out. 

1. How many gallons your septic tank holds

2. How many people are in your household

Below is a chart, courtesy PSMA, that shows how often you should have your septic tank pumped based on those two factors. It's also important, however, to consider things like whether or not you have a garbage disposal, how much water your family uses, and what kind of things you are flushing on a regular basis - baby wipes, paint or grease, feminine products, etc. 

For a complete list of what not to flush, click here to download our Homeowner Tip Sheet! 

Determining Your Septic Tank Size

If you're not sure of your septic tank size, here's a general rule of thumb - most septic tanks are based on the number of bedrooms in your home. If your home has 3 bedrooms, you most likely have a 1000 gallon tank; 4-5 bedrooms is typically a 1500 gallon tank. Older homes have smaller septic tanks so if your home was built prior to the 1980's you may need to have your tank emptied more often. Still not sure? Ask one of our technicians to provide you with your tank size and location at your next Central Pa septic service visit. We're happy to mark things for you so you have a septic "blueprint" to add to your home's records. You can use this as a place to record your service dates and keep track of any problems that arise.

Township Required Septic Pumping

Many townships require you have your septic tanked emptied every 2-4 years. If your live in such a township, you'll receive a notice in the mail when your tank is due to be pumped. You may also receive a reminder card from our office team if we've serviced your tank before! To view a complete list of Lancaster, York, Dauphin, and Lebanon county townships and their individual pumping ordinances, click here.

Select your township to view your township ordinance (if it has one!) along with our service rates for regular or same-day service. When you call us to pump out your septic tank, we'll make a note of our recommendations and we can give you a reminder call when it's time for your tank to be cleaned out again.

The best thing you can do for your septic tank to keep things flushing smoothly, is to stay on top of your septic clean out schedule and have your tank emptied every 2-4 years. Never go longer than 5 years without a septic tank pumping, and your septic system will thank you! If you follow these general guidelines, your septic system will be functioning properly for years to come. Due to schedule septic service? Give us a call today, our team is standing by!