How often your septic tank needs to be pumped can vary dramatically for a variety of reasons. For example, if your water consumption has increased or if the bacteria levels inside your tank have decreased, you will find that your septic tank needs to be pumped more often than it once did. That is why it is so important that you learn to spot the signs that your septic tank is getting full rather than simply relying on the calendar to tell you when it is time to utilize septic pumping services. Below you can learn more about three of the most common signs that it is time to have your septic tank pumped.

Sign #1: Your Water Starts Draining Slower

The closer your septic tank gets to being full, the harder it will be for your tank to take in more wastewater. When more water attempts to enter the tank, some water will need to be released into your drain field in order to accommodate the incoming water. This can lead to drains that move much slower than usual. It is important that you do not confuse this issue with a drain that is clogged. If you have a single drain in your home that is experiencing issues, chances are good that you are dealing with a clog. If the issue is that your septic tank needs to be pumped, you will typically see that all of the drains in your home are moving slowly. 

Sign #2: The Ground In Your Drain Field Is Exceptionally Moist

If your septic tank is releasing more wastewater than usual due to it needing to be pumped, you will notice that the soil in your drain field is much more moist than usual. There are a few ways that you can detect these higher groundwater levels. For example, high moisture content in the soil will often cause the grass to be greener than it is in the rest of the yard. You may also notice that rainwater is unable to soak into the ground because the soil is already fully saturated. 

Sign #3: You Can Smell Sewage Through Your Drains Or Drain Field

The sludge and solid waste inside your septic tank normally sink to the bottom of the tank. However, as your tank begins to reach capacity this solid waste will reach higher levels within the tank. This will often result in the smell of sewage or rotten eggs coming into your home through your drains. You may also notice this smell when spending time outside near your drain field or directly above the area where your septic tank is located. If you notice either of these unpleasant smells, you will want to arrange to have your septic tank pumped as soon as possible in order to prevent a possible overflow. 

For more information, contact a septic tank pumping service near you.