In general, you should pump your septic tank every one to three years. To determine the best schedule for your system, consider the size of your septic tank, how many people use your septic system, if any one of those people might be taking medications that might affect the tank’s friendly bacteria, and what graywater- and household waste-producing appliances you have.
For optimal functionality, maintain your system by:
Regularly cleaning the system as well as any drains
Minimizing the amount of water passing into the tank, particularly at one time
Decreasing the amount of fat, grease, cleaners, and chemicals entering the tank
Keeping non-biodegradable items out of the septic system
Composting instead of using the garbage disposal
Watching for physical damage or plumbing leaks to address these immediately
If you’re a Massachusetts resident, you must comply with particular guidelines for septic system pumping and routine maintenance. The Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) 310 CMR 15.351 states that septic tanks should be pumped as necessary to ensure effectiveness and adhere to manufacturer specifications.
While it recognizes that septic tank pumping frequency is dependent upon use, CMR requires that pumping occur when the solid layer’s top is within 1 foot of the outlet tee’s base, or the layer of scum is within 2 inches of the outlet tee’s top or bottom. After pumping, the system pumper must submit the results to the approving authority within two weeks.