Your septic tank just got pumped and you feel some weight lifted off your shoulder. Now you are wondering what the next step is. Do you need to add something to your tank to rebuild the bacteria? Should you be flushing the toilet more often? The short answer is no. Your system is ready to get back to work right after pumping! However, if you want to make sure your septic system is off to a great new start, we have the inside scoop on what to do after your septic tank pumping.
Tank Function Post Pump
After pumping, you can expect your septic tank to function normally or even better than before. During a septic pumping, floating solids and sludge are removed from your tank. After this is removed, your tank should work more efficiently, and you shouldn’t be noticing any gurgling from fixtures that you may have before. Toilets should be flushing and drains should be working at a faster pace.
What a Full Tank Means
This may come as a surprise to many, but after septic tank pumping, you can expect your tank to be full again after a few days of normal use. While septic pumping removes solids and sludge from your tank, it’ll fill with water 8 to 12 inches from the lid of your tank within just a few days. This is normal! Water is necessary for your tank to operate so, if you notice your tank looking “full” again, this is nothing to worry about. Unless you notice excess water in the leach field or water levels surpassing the outlet pipe, your system is operating as expected! For more information on this, check out our blog on what it means if your septic is full.
First Steps After a Pump
If you are still looking for proactive ways to get your septic off to a great start after pumping, there are a few things you can do. First, note the date of your pumping and stick to a schedule of getting a septic pumping every 2 to 3 years. Throughout that time in between pumps, be sure to only flush human waste and toilet paper. Make sure all residents in your household know that flushing diapers, “flushable” wipes, and cotton balls are not acceptable. Also, take note of what is going down your drains. Avoid pouring grease down drains and overusing garbage disposals. Finally, be sure to keep water usage to a reasonable level. Extra long showers and leaving water running can overflush your system with water. Not following these tips can lead to a need for more frequent pumping or even costly repairs. Check out more of our handy care and maintenance tips here.
Regular septic tank pumping is a great way to ensure the health and longevity of your septic. Try to avoid overthinking and taking additional unnecessary steps to get your system restarted. Your system is prepared to get back to work all on its own. However, if you do notice anything out of the ordinary with your system after a pump, contact us. One of our expert technicians will evaluate and identify any potential issues for you.
With winter months and holiday gatherings approaching, don’t delay. Schedule your pump today!