Get matched with top aquarium service pros in Benton, IL

It only takes a few days for a septic tank to fill with water after a pro has pumped it. This is completely normal, and the water is a vital part of your septic system’s wastewater treatment process. The water that fills your tank days after pumping is not the same as the tank being filled with waste. You shouldn’t have to pump your septic system more than once every three to five years unless you have a tank that’s too small for your home’s water output or there’s a problem with your leach field. 

Toilet paper is the only material that you should flush down toilets. Other items like wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, and medications should be disposed of in the trash. Flushing these items can lead to plumbing issues and damage to sewage systems. Grease and cooking oils should also be avoided as they can solidify in pipes, causing blockages. Proper disposal helps prevent clogs and ensures the efficient operation of wastewater treatment systems while protecting the environment.

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.

There are several signs that can indicate your leach lines are broken, failing, or in need of repair, including puddles of water or a marshy consistency to the ground above or around the pipes, slow drainage or plumbing backups inside your home, and noticeable odors or gurgling sounds coming from your leach field. Keeping your septic system properly maintained, including having your septic tank pumped at regular intervals, can help ensure your leach lines stay in good working order for a long time.