Septic tanks and cesspools should be pumped every 1 to 2 years, depending on its age and household habits, to remove the scum and sludge layers that accumulate.

When wastewater enters a tank the solids drop to the bottom creating a sludge layer and the grease and oils rise to the top creating a scum layer. The wastewater between the sludge and scum, known as clear water, flows to the leaching area. Lack of maintenance reduces the clear water area.

Sludge decomposes with the help of bacteria. Lots of grease or extreme cold temperatures can slow the bacterial action, which necessitate more frequent pumping.

Garbage disposals are not recommended because they add additional solids and grease to a tank that the natural bacteria is unable to handle.

There is no additive that can be put into a tank that can remove sludge. However, there are some circumstances when adding additional bacteria may be advisable.

Please contact our knowledgable staff if you have any questions.
 

Cesspool

Stonewall Cesspool

Septic Tank with Baffle

Working Distribution Box

We strongly recommend the use of an effluent filter with a septic tank. An effluent filter is a cost effective way to drastically reduce the amount of suspended materials that go out from the tank to the distribution box and then to the leaching facility. It is placed in the outlet baffle and must be cleaned regularly. This is an additional service we can provide during the yearly maintenance of your septic tank.