Unfortunately, there is no one size fits all answer here. The frequency of septic tank emptying is going to depend on a variety of factors. Some important things to consider are the number of people in your household, how much water you are using, the age of your septic system and the size of the tank. On average most homes should have a septic tank pump out service every 1-3 years. Pumping is typically recommended once the sludge and scum layers account for 1/3 of your tank capacity. The team at Dagwood Vac Services can give you a better estimate after coming to pump your tank the first time and finding out some details about your system.

The field bed refers to the area of stone or gravel-filled trenches where the wastewater, or effluent, exits the run-off pipes from your septic system. The effluent trickles from perforated pipes in the field bed before filtering through the soil that organically breaks down waste particles.

The soil below the field bed act as a natural filter for the effluent. It organically breaks down bacteria and waste before the water enters the groundwater far below. Most septic tanks will require 2-3 feet of soil below the pipes to properly help filter the water or effluent run-off. 

Not necessarily. While you should not be getting any bad smells in your house from your septic tank, there are a few key things to check if things start to smell a little funky. Firstly, it may be that the P-traps in your home may be dry; this can happen if you have certain drains that have not been used in a long time. Start by dumping a bucket of water down every sink, shower, tub and floor drain in your home; this should add water to the P-trap and stop gases from coming back up. If this does not do the trick, then check that the rooftop plumbing vent is not obstructed. If the smell persists, then it may be time to call a plumber to have a check. 

This will depend on the capacity of the hose and vacuum and ease of access to the septic tank. But in general, the entire process should be done in under an hour. 

Not a problem! If you are worried about your lawn, then simply inform Dagwood Vac Services when you book your service, and we will ensure we have enough hoses to cover the distance. Otherwise, you may opt to wait until later in the year when the ground is at least partially frozen so as to minimize damage. 

Absolutely! The vacuum drawback will help ensure everything is operating smoothly. It will do a number of things, including ensuring that sludge or solids do not build up in the discharge line and that the pipes are clear. It will also oxygenate the top end of the mound, giving the good bacteria a helpful boost. 

Yes, yes, absolutely! A high-level septic alarm can be a lifesaver in the case of a potential backup into your home. As nothing lasts forever, there is a good chance you will eventually have a mechanical failure, and you will be very grateful for the alarm and its advanced warning. 

A sewage screen or basket is considered standard practice in many places. It will work to reduce the amount of solids entering the septic pump and getting pumped out. This will help prolong the lifespan of the entire system. 

If your septic tank system needs to be serviced, then there will be a number of indicators both inside and outside your home. Inside you may notice gurgling from your toilets or sinks, slow draining sinks, water coming back up in the shower or toilet and possibly black liquid with a foul odour. Outside your home, you may notice green stripes down your lawn where the pipes are located and wet spots or wastewater leaking to the surface of the field bed. If you notice any of these telltale signs, then it is best to call Dagwood Vac Services as soon as possible to get your septic tank serviced before more troubles arise. 

An effluent filter is installed on the second chamber of a septic tank at the exit point to help further filter the water exiting the system. It will prevent sludge or scum from entering the pipes and helps prolong the lifespan of your drain field.

A septic riser acts as an extension to bring septic tank access up to ground level. It will allow for easier access when pumping, emptying, or inspecting the tank. 

No! Please do not skip pumping or inspecting your septic system simply because there are no issues with it at the moment. Proper and regular pumping, emptying, and inspection are essential to keep your septic system running smoothly and are key to avoiding costly problems down the road. While the team at Dagwood Vac Services enjoys a challenge, we would much rather perform routine pumps and inspections than emergency interventions.