Sewage Pumpers can pump tanks and transport the sewage material to an approved treatment facility. Many can also inspect the tanks for cracks and leaks, as well as check the drainfield area and evaluate landscaping and proper drainage. Washington State regulation requires that Septic Pumpers are approved by the local health department.
Note: Having your tank(s) pumped is not a substitute for an inspection. In general, a Maintenance Service Provider (or owner, if allowed in your area) should inspect the system and determine if pumping is needed.
If you are selling your home you will need to have your system inspected and tank(s) pumped by a certified professional see Property Sales web page.
Tanks need to be pumped when the accumulated scum and sludge equals 1/3 of the tank depth. Most tanks will need to be pumped every 3-5 years but can vary depending on system usage.
When you septic system is inspected, your septic professional will measure the scum and sludge levels to see if any tanks need to be pumped.
If your system qualifies, you can take the self-inspector course so you can measure the scum and sludge yourself to see if your tank needs pumping!
Questions to ask Sewage Pumpers:
- What are the estimated costs? Does this include health department fees?
- After pumping the tank(s), will the professional evaluate the integrity of the tank and check for cracks and holes on the inside?
- Do you charge extra to dig up the lids to the system? What if I do the digging?
- Do you inspect the whole system?
- Can you make minor or small repairs if my system needs them? (replace baffle; patch crack in the tank, extract roots from the tank or d-box).