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The best times of year to pump or empty a septic tank are spring and fall. Many professionals recommend spring because the ground has thawed, making the tank easier to access, and any snowmelt or rainfall can aid in proper drainage. Pumping before summer is also ideal to avoid conflicts with vacations or outdoor gatherings.

Fall is another great option, as contractors may be less busy than in the spring. Servicing the tank in late fall or early spring can also reduce the risk of overflow from extra precipitation during winter and spring.

While summer is a possibility, winter is generally not recommended. The ground is often frozen, which can make it difficult to access the tank, and the waste inside may also be frozen.

Age is certainly a factor in well pump failure. The older your pump, the more likely it is to fail. 

Beyond age, other factors can cause your well pump to fail, too. Things like poor water quality can cause sediment buildup in your pump. Without proper cleaning, your pump can seize up and fail. Having a dry well for too long can also cause your pump to fail, as it keeps working even though there's no water for it to pull. 

Septic tank odors can happen because of a few different issues with your septic system, such as a full tank, clogged drains, or blocked venting systems. Not only is a smelly septic tank pretty unpleasant, but it can also pose a potential hazard to yourself and your home. Toxic fumes could be hanging around, or untreated wastewater could be harming the environment.

There are a few signs that indicate a failing drain field. For instance, if your septic tank starts requiring more pumping than normal, your drain field might be failing. Other signs to watch for include poor drainage after rain, standing water or sewage over the septic system, a strong septic smell outside, new and healthy grass growing over the drain field, and plumbing backups in your sinks, bathtubs, or toilets.