How to Tell If Your Septic Tank Needs to Be Emptied

When you think of the plumbing problems you don’t want to deal with, most people turn right towards the septic tank. This is understandable as the septic tank is one of the most important parts of your plumbing, but it can also be a big problem if it fills up and begins to back up. How do you know when your septic tank needs emptying? Mr. Rooter can help.

Call us or request an estimate online for plumbing services near you.

It’s important for you to recognize the steps you should take and ways you can tell that your septic tank needs emptied. Here are some of the signs for which you should look.

• Water puddling above the septic tank. So you noticed a small pool of water but it didn’t rain? Well, unfortunately, that could mean that the septic tank overflowed, causing the excess solid waste to clog the drain field piping system. As a result, the liquid can rise to the surface, gathering and pooling above the tank. This is a clear sign to empty the septic tank as soon as possible.
• Drains moving slowly. If the drain is moving slowly when you flush the toilet, it could be due to a clog. If the clog is removed and everything is still taking much longer than expected, the septic tank may be full and needs to be emptied.
• Bad smells coming from the septic tank. Normally, a septic tank is supposed to withhold the odors from reaching the area or inside the home or building. However, if a septic tank is backed up, it can release into the air, causing a very unpleasant smell that would indicate it’s time to get the tank emptied.
• The sewer has backed up. This is one of the more difficult signs to endure as it means the sewer has backed up into one of the lowest plumbing fixtures. It is a sign that something serious went wrong such as the septic tank overflowing.

How Much Does It Cost to Empty Your Septic Tank?

If your septic tank needs to be emptied, the cost of such a service will vary depending on several factors, including the plumbing company you choose, the size of your tank, and the location of your tank. A smaller septic tank that’s easy to access will be less expensive to empty than a larger tank that holds over 1,000 gallons. On average, septic tank emptying costs between $375 and $895. Costs could go up if your septic tank needs complete replacement. Not only will you need to pump your tank, but also replacing the entire system could cost up to $15,000. Call our Harrisburg plumbers to schedule an estimate today!

At Mr. Rooter, we have the knowledge, experience, and ability to help our customers with all their septic tank needs. We aim to fix the issue properly the first time so you don’t have to worry about the problem in the future.

Having septic tank issues? Call us today.

Interested in learning more about your plumbing system? Check out some of our other blogs:

• How Do I Get Rid of Fruit Flies in My Kitchen Drain?
• 5 Signs Your Home Needs a Water Softener
• Understanding Different Faucet Types

About the Author, Paul Nelson: Paul has been a trusted Mr. Rooter owner of Central PA since 1983. With over 37 years to back him, Paul has experience with a wide range of plumbing related solutions and systems. He and his team specialize in septic tank services, water softener installation, and more.