Steps to Take Before Having a Septic Tank Pumped

If you are having issues with your septic tank, such as water backing up into the house, then you may schedule for it to be pumped. This is the logical step for many septic tank system owners. However, you may be rushing in without knowing exactly what is going on. Before you call for a pumping service, here are a few steps to take. These steps may save you costly repairs and pumping.

Look for Sewage Back Up

One of the leading steps to take before having a septic tank system pumped is to look for septic back up. For example, you may find that you have slow drains in the bathroom or kitchen. If you use a plunger on these drains, have someone stand in other rooms of the house. If you notice that clearing one pipe causes a backup to another, then you may have a full septic tank system. You may notice this happening in areas like the dishwasher, additional bathrooms, and in kitchen sink areas. If you have a backup occurring in outside areas, then you may be facing a broken tank as well. 

Check for Pooling Water

If you think the septic tank needs pumping, make sure to check for pooling water around the area of the tank. This water may be bubbling up from the tank itself. If that is the case, you will also notice an odour with the pooling water. If you notice either of these issues, contact your septic systems contractor as soon as possible. They can perform an inspection and move to help pump or repair the tank if there is an internal tank issue.

Perform Camera Inspection

One of the innovations in septic tank systems and servicing is the use of camera inspection technology. The camera inspection can allow the contractor to go into the tank and the plumbing lines without breaking ground. They can see where blockages are happening and if there are any damages to the tank itself. By knowing this before they go in for the pumping, they can prevent issues from occurring. For example, if they know there is a blockage in the plumbing, they can avoid pumping the tank and get to the root of the problem first.

Once you have taken these steps, you will be in a better place to determine how to fix your septic tank issues. Keep in mind, the steps listed here are services that most septic tank systems contractors offer as part of other maintenance packages or stand-alone services.