A. ALL septic tanks MUST be periodically pumped to remove floating scum and sludge that accumulates. Floating scum or sludge that is allowed to enter the soil treatment area will lead to premature failure and cause expensive and often irreparable damage. Also, lack of proper maintenance can result in a sewage backup into the home.
A. Every three years. A local government's ordinance may contain stricter or additional requirements; therefore, it is important to know and follow the local requirements. Pumping frequency depends on tank size, use, and operating condition. If you ever have questions, please feel free to call we’d be happy to talk you through any questions you may have.
A. Some local government units keep pumping records on file. Try checking with them. If you are a previous customer of Efficient septic feel free to contact us. We keep records of all our pumps by property.
A. Call your local government unit and request a septic as-built. Not all cities or counties keep septic information on file. If you are unable to get an as-built, call, we can walk you through some points of interest in locating the tanks. If all else fails, a technician is able to come out and locate the tanks for you.
A. Very little! Ensure your manhole covers are accessible, that a garden hose is available, and be sure to inform us of whether or not it’s ok to park in your driveway or if needed if we are able to drive on your yard when you call to schedule, these questions will be asked.
A. Minn. R. 7080.2450 prohibits the use of any product intended to lessen the volume of accumulated solids in a septic tank in order to reduce the frequency of proper maintenance. The use of additives does not fulfill the solids removal requirement of the rule. Additionally, additives containing hazardous materials must not be used in an SSTS.
We realize how frustrating it can be to deal with an unexpected plumbing or sewer problem. Luckily, you can avoid unnecessary stress by calling to leave a voicemail or email and we will get back to you as soon as possible or in the next business day.
Pumping your septic system is actually more involved than most people realize. In Minnesota, the rapid changes of weather (often times in extremes) can cause complications in otherwise healthy systems. Having your tank pumped provides an opportunity to perform a quick check up on your system in general. Our residential pumping service provides septic cleaning and inspection of your tanks.
We access your tank through the manhole cover, measure the solids accumulation, and then pump the tank, backflushing or power agitating the tank to remove all the solids. It’s also important to verify baffle placement and inspect the tank walls/floor for root intrusion, cracking, or erosion.
Think of your septic system as actually a miniature waste-water treatment plant. Like any treatment plant, some repair and general care are required, but with regular maintenance, your system will serve you for many years.
Northland Septic also specializes in installing Drain Fields and Mound Systems.
Per the law, all cleaning must be done through the maintenance opening, typically a 28-inch in diameter manhole-type cover. Most are concrete and may be difficult to move, though many modern maintenance openings are plastic.
Cleaning through this opening allows the service provider to move the pumping hose over the entire bottom of the tank, removing all the solid waste accumulation. This is opposed to cleaning through the raised, white ventilation stacks common in septic covers, which are purposed mainly for inspections. Pumping through these stacks will not result in a completely clean tank.
The service provider can also inspect the inside of the tank for any cracks or infiltration problems, such as roots, as well as checking to be sure that the baffles are in place.