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How often should I have my septic system pumped?
BY ROGER E. MACHMEIER, Ph.D., P.E.
PROFESSOR EMERITUS, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
Reprinted by permission from Pumper / COLE Publishing Inc.,
P.O. Box 220,Three Lakes, WI 54562
800-257-7222 / www.pumper.com

The frequency of pumping depends on several factors:

• capacity of the septic tank
  
• volume of wastewater
  
• amount of solids in wastewater
  

The following table lists estimated pumping frequency according to septic tank capacity and household size. The frequencies were calculated to provide a minimum of 24 hours of wastewater retention assuming 50 percent digestion of the retained solids.

These numbers are for estimation purposes only - every system and situation is different and pumping may be required more or less often than indicated. If you are in doubt, contact your local septic system professional.

Estimated septic tank pumping frequencies in years for full-time residences

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See Also:
 
What is a septic system?
Get To Know Your Septic Tank
Should I have the septic system inspected?
Care And Feeding Of Your Septic Tank
How often should I have my septic system pumped?

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