How often should the Septic Tank be cleaned?
Septic tanks should be checked and cleaned regularly. However, if you have a large family, an older septic system or a food disposal, more frequent cleaning of the tank is advisable. Every two to three years is an average interval. Solids, which settle down to the bottom of the tank, are broken down by bacterial action. Eventually, the remaining undigested material, known as “sludge,” accumulates and must be removed. If solids are not pumped out regularly, they will build up to a high level and can be carried from the tank to the absorption field. Those solids will clog the pipes, stone and the soil surrounding them. For over the last 30 years, Connecticut Public Health Code regulations require that new septic tanks have a minimum capacity of 1,000 gallons and 1,250 gallons if a garbage disposal is installed. 1,250-1,500 gallon tanks are common for a four to five bedroom house. At a use rate of 60 gallons per person/per day (considered average by most plumbers) a family of five uses 10
