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While homeowners connected to a municipal sewer line still have to keep up with plumbing maintenance, the downside to a septic system is that all the maintenance falls on the homeowners. Not calling in a pro to pump the tank every few years or accidentally flushing or draining the wrong types of materials can quickly cause clogs, which can back up into drains around the home.

Yes, a septic tank can get full. If this happens, you might run into issues flushing your toilets or draining your sinks. You may also notice your pipes making gurgling noises or the smell of sewage floating around your house. Other signs of a backed-up septic tank include water pooling or fresh, healthy grass growing above your drain field.

There are three layers of wastewater in a septic tank: scum (solid waste that floats to the top of the wastewater), liquid (the relatively clean liquid wastewater in between the two other layers), and sludge (solid waste that falls to the bottom of the wastewater). The buildup of sludge is one of the main reasons septic tanks need to be pumped. If the tank is more than 1/3 of the way full with a combination of sludge and scum, it’s time to call a pro for pumping.

The best times of year to empty or pump a septic tank are spring and fall. Many professionals recommend spring because the ground has thawed, making the tank easier to access and the waste less likely to be frozen. Pumping before summer also helps avoid conflicts with vacations or outdoor gatherings. Fall is another great option, as contractors may be less busy, and servicing the tank can reduce the risk of overflow from winter and spring precipitation. While summer is also a suitable time, winter is generally not recommended due to frozen ground.