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Most septic tanks need to be emptied every 3 to 5 years, but it’s a good idea to monitor the fill levels of your septic tank all the time. You can do this by installing a pressure level sensor to detect the internal tank pressure, or by having a septic tank company perform an annual inspection to let you know when you’ll need to pump the tank.

Yes, shower water goes into the septic tank. Shower water is a type of greywater, and in fact, all water used in a home with a septic system—including water from sinks, toilets, the dishwasher, and the washing machine—drains into the tank. When shower water enters the tank, debris like soap and hair travels with it. The solid debris sinks to the bottom to become sludge, while soap residue joins the scum layer at the top. The remaining water is treated in the tank before moving to the drain field for further treatment and dispersal. It is important to avoid putting oil or harsh chemicals down any drain, as they can cause clogs or disrupt the beneficial bacteria required for proper wastewater management in the septic system.

Most professionals recommend that a deep well pump shouldn’t run more than 10 hours consecutively before cycling off. Overworking the well pump beyond the recommended amount can prematurely wear out your pump and burn out the motor, which means replacing it more often than you otherwise should need to. Your well pump should also come with the manufacturer’s use and maintenance recommendations that are specific to the model.

Cisterns can be used as septic tanks, but septic tanks can’t be used as cisterns. This is because cisterns need to meet FDA standards for drinking water, but septic tanks aren’t required to meet those standards since they are only used for wastewater.