ARTISTINSC@AOL.COM on wed 6 sep 00
Dear Margaret,
Thank you for your informative clayart post about septic tanks. If you
don't mind, I have a question. How often should one have their septic tank
cleaned out?
Thanks.
Response
The clean out intervals is a relative thing that takes in account it's
size, how many it serves relative to the size and the leaching capacity of
the drain field. Rocky land being the worst, hard clay then sands of varying
depth. That factor is related to the perk test of the soil. If you have been
in the present dwelling a few years and never had the tank pumped, consider
having it done now before the ground freezes. Then ask if they would install
an easy cleanout access when they clean it so they would not necessarily need
to redig it each time in the future.
When selecting a company to do the job ask for an estimate and make certain
it includes digging, replacing the dirt and any grass lawn and that the
disposal is included. If you want the cleanout tell them after you get that
figure but before they come out so they know to allot the time for your job
that day. They may not give a firm figure until seeing it so check their
business record with the BBB and consumer affairs. Get estimates in writing
and ask about a warrantee and get that in writing. Ask them when they have
pumped it how often they suggest as these systems are somewhat unique to
various situations.
Pumping again depends on use and the factors I mentioned. Big family small
tank pump annually otherwise any history of past problems should also be a
guide. If you are alone, have a big tank and good drainfield 2-4 years could
even work. So just get them done before the frost freezes the ground as you
are more likely to have the trouble then, as well during very wet spells and
the company will have to charge for difficulty getting into it.
It is important to know the definite location and keep that marked and known
to any occupants.
Margaret.
| |
|
