The key to extending the life of your septic system and prevention of costly repairs is periodic maintenance. The US Department of Health, Education and Welfare recommends that septic systems be pumped every two to three years; more frequent septic cleaning may be necessary if the household has four or more individuals and the home has a garbage disposal.
Septic pumping is necessary to remove the sludge that settles to the bottom of the treatment tank. If the sludge enters the drain field, the crushed stone and soil will eventually become impermeable and effluent will seep to the surface. The installation of filters on the outflow baffles will eliminate the outflow of sludge in a properly functioning system. If filters are installed, they should be inspected and cleaned annually.