If you live in an area where public sewer systems are not accessible, chances are you have a septic system. Septic systems are used by one in five households in the US, so they're more common than you may expect. One way that septic systems differ from municipal wastewater systems is that they require regular professional maintenance. Septic services are essential for the proper functioning of your septic system. Here are three things that you need to know about septic services. 

What They Include

The first thing that you need to know is what septic services include. Septic services are an essential part of maintaining your septic system. Septic tanks break down the waste from your home, but over time sludge begins to accumulate. This waste will need to be removed via septic tank pumping services. Another thing that is included in septic services, in addition to septic pump services, is inspections. Septic inspections are required to ensure that every portion of your septic system, from your tank to your drain field, is working. 

When They Are Needed

Septic services are needed periodically to keep your system working as well as possible. Septic tanks need pumping every three to five years, depending on your system and how much waste your household produces. Septic inspections are recommended every one to three years. Regular professional inspections can help catch problems before they become major issues and will ensure that repairs are done as soon as possible. Skipping out on septic services can lead to significant damage. Septic system replacement may be needed if you do not keep up with the recommended septic services. 

How Much They Cost

Septic services will range in price depending on the type of septic system you have and the size of your septic tank. The typical range for septic pumping is between $295 and $610. Septic inspections will typically cost between $100 and $250. While septic services may seem pricey, it's important to note that they aren't required every year in most instances. Also, septic services cost far less than replacing your entire septic system. A new septic system will set you back thousands of dollars.

When it comes to septic services, there are a few things to know. First, these services include septic tank pumping and inspections. Both are required to keep your system running as well as possible. Septic services are also needed periodically. How often they are needed will depend on your household and your system. The cost of these services will also vary, but usually, they will set you back a few hundred dollars. For more information about septic services, reach out to a company such as Autry's Backhoe & Septic Service.