07/29/2026
How Your Septic System Works
Your septic tank is part of your home’s wastewater treatment system. Wastewater from the house flows into the tank, where natural bacteria begin breaking down some of the solids. The liquid then exits the tank through an outlet near the top and moves into the drain field.
As the liquid filters through the soil, harmful bacteria, nutrients, and contaminants are removed before the water returns to the groundwater system.
Why Regular Pumping Matters
Most homes have a 1,000-gallon septic tank. Over time, solids build up in the tank because they do not flow into the field lines. As solids accumulate, they reduce the space available for liquid wastewater.
To prevent problems, most tanks should be pumped every 3 to 5 years. If the tank is not serviced, sewage may back up into the house or surface on the ground.
What Happens After Pumping
After your tank is pumped, it usually takes about a week to fill again. Most homes use about 200 to 300 gallons of water per day, or roughly 82 gallons per person.
Once the tank is full, each additional gallon of wastewater entering the tank pushes liquid already inside out into the field lines. If the field lines are failing, this added wastewater may back up into the house or rise to the surface outside.
Schedule Service
Call Lynn at 770-942-PUMP to have your septic tank serviced.
