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No. You should never empty a septic tank yourself because it involves working with specialized equipment (that you probably don’t have) and puts you at risk of breathing in toxic fumes. Plus, once you’ve removed the waste, you’ll need to transport it and dispose of it safely. Instead, call an expert for this job. On average, hiring a pro to pump a septic tank costs $550.

To keep your septic tank healthy, be careful of what you flush and be conservative with water usage, as even flushing too much water down the drain can throw off the septic system’s delicate balance. Never flush anything but human waste and toilet paper down your toilet, and be sure to have the tank inspected and pumped every two to five years, depending on the size of your household and your water usage.

While the lifespan of your septic system will depend on a variety of factors, including how well you keep up with regular inspections and maintenance, it will eventually need replacement. Most septic tanks can last between 20 and 30 years, and under good circumstances, a septic drainage field may last up to 50. On average, though, about every 30 years or so, a major septic renovation will be necessary.

The best time of year to pump a septic tank is spring because the ground is thawed and snowmelt and rainfall can help with proper drainage. Having your septic tank pumped before the summer months is ideal to avoid conflicting with vacations and outdoor summer gatherings. Fall is also a great time to pump your septic tank, and it can be less busy for contractors than the spring.