Home / Septic Pumping / Septic Tank Pumping vs Septic Tank Cleaning: What You Should Know
Septic Tank Pumping vs Septic Tank Cleaning: What You Should Know
They're NOT the same thing. The experts at Speedy Septic explain how. Find out how often you should be getting both.
What Is the Difference Between Septic Pumping and Septic Cleaning?
While often used interchangeably, septic tank pumping and cleaning are distinct processes, each critical for maintaining the health of your septic system:
Septic Pumping: Pumping sucks out the water and the floaty bits to prevent overflows and keep things flowing smoothly. This is often achieved using a vacuum truck that sucks up the contents of the tank.
Septic Cleaning: Cleaning gets rid of the stubborn gunk settled at the bottom and checks that everything inside is looking good and working right. Septic specialists typically perform a cleaning so they can conduct a complete inspection of the tank for any potential issues.
Talk to a technician
Live people answer the phone, day and night. No surcharge for emergency calls.
Let the Pros Clean and Pump Your Septic Tank
Here’s the thing: septic maintenance doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right team on your side, it’s a hassle-free process, and our local pros at Speedy Septic are knowledgeable about all things septic. Remember, staying on top of your septic tank’s pumping and cleaning schedule is all part of the great adventure of home ownership here in Portland. So let the experts do the heavy lifting so you can have one less thing to worry about as a homeowner. Call us today to schedule a service! If you’re having a septic emergency, we’re here 24/7 to answer your call.
Talk to a technician
Not sure what you need? Describe it on the phone and we will tell you straight.
Septic Tank Pumping vs Septic Tank Cleaning: What You Should Know
Common questions
How Often Should You Clean Your Septic Tank?
How often to pump and clean your tank isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, it depends. The general recommendation is to have your septic tank pumped every three to five years, but your system’s mileage may vary depending on your household size and water use. Regular check-ins keep nasty surprises at bay! However, septic tank cleaning should be performed whenever pumping is performed to make sure that all sediments are removed. Routine septic maintenance keeps your septic system working efficiently and decreases the likelihood of unexpected failures.
How Do You Know If Your Septic Tank Needs to be Pumped?
Keep an eye (and nose) out for these red flags when considering if your system needs pumping: Unpleasant odors indoors or around the septic tank area.Sinks and toilets draining slowly.Weird gurgling sounds in your plumbing.Any mysterious, suspiciously stinky wet spots in your yard. Paying attention to these warnings can help you avoid more serious and expensive problems.
Speak with a septic expert
Septic trouble does not wait. Neither do we.
Call any time. A live person answers 24/7, and emergency calls cost the same as daytime ones.
Request a call back