How much does septic tank pumping cost?

Septic Tank Pumping Cost: A Complete Pricing Guide

Septic tank maintenance and recurring pumping are essential parts of preventive home maintenance. Septic tanks that aren't maintained properly can result in plumbing issues, costly septic system repairs, and environmental contamination. By removing excess solids and sludge periodically, the septic system will be safe and work as efficiently as possible. 

How Much Does Septic Pumping Cost?

The average price of septic tank pumping in Washington state is between $650 & $1,000. However, the size of a septic tank, its location, and necessary repairs and replacements impact the septic tank pumping price. Septic tank repair can be as simple as removing a clog or as complex as replacing components of a septic system. 

Minor septic system repairs like removing roots can cost $200 and up. Replacing a pump can cost from $1,500 to $3,000. Extensive repairs like tank replacement and drain field restoration can cost $1,000 to $5,000+. Compared to these expenses, septic tank maintenance costs are well worth the investment.

Factors That Affect Septic Pumping Costs

How much does septic pumping cost? Determining a septic tank pumping price may seem straightforward, but several factors impact the cost. The cost to pump out a septic system depends on these and other factors:

Geographical Location

Homeowners can expect to pay more in areas that are not in close proximity to the service provider or sewage treatment plant. The farther away a property is, the more fuel and labor costs. 

Tank Size

Tank size is the most significant factor in determining a septic tank pumping price. Typical gravity septic systems rely on tanks that contain between 500 and 1,500 gallons. A pressure system septic tank with a pump and alarm panel is typically no less than 1,500 gallons. 

Septic Tank Location

The locations of residential septic tanks can vary greatly, from backyards to nearly inaccessible areas. Septic tanks that are under a deck, buried deeply, or located in thick underbrush will typically increase the septic pumping cost. A practical and efficient way to make it easier to access the septic tank for maintenance, inspections, and pumping is to add risers.

Distance

Many septic pumping trucks are typically outfitted with about 150 feet of hose. When the distance between a septic tank and the pumping truck exceeds the hose length, additional tools and labor are needed.

Maintenance History

A poorly maintained septic system can require extra time and work that can increase the cost to pump out a septic tank. The main cause for concern due to lack of maintenance is the overabundance of solids that will have accumulated in the tank. Septic tanks act as a filter. If the tank is not serviced at regular intervals, the removal of solids trapped in the tank becomes harder due to solidification and compaction. This can take additional time to remove, which equates to additional costs 

Mandated County Inspection 

A mandated county inspection is required when installing or altering a septic system on a residential property. Additionally, many systems in sensitive areas are required to be inspected every 1-3 years, depending on complexity. Septic inspections and the associated paperwork from the county can significantly increase the cost of septic tank pumping. 

Other Services Needed

Depending on the severity of a septic tank's problems, additional septic and plumbing services may be needed. Services like pump replacements or line repairs require more labor and parts, which increases the cost of septic tank pumping. 

Additional factors that impact septic tank pumping prices include removing flushable wipes, heavy solids from lack of maintenance, and root penetration. It's important to note that many factors that lead to increased costs can only be identified during an in-person visit with a septic technician. 

How to Reduce Your Septic Pumping Costs

Reducing your septic pumping costs is possible with a bit of proactive maintenance and some smart practices. Here are several ways to keep septic tank maintenance costs to a minimum.   

Routine Septic Tank Maintenance

Maintaining a septic tank with a regular pumping schedule prevents buildup and ensures a more efficient septic system. While the ideal frequency depends on the amount of usage and tank size, getting a tank pumped every four years should work for most homes. 

Prompt Repair for Leaks

Even a seemingly minor leak from pipes, faucets, or toilets can create a significant increase in water usage. The increased water usage causes what is called "hydraulic overloading" in the industry. This hydraulic overload can lead to early drain field failure, increased deterioration rate of the pump and tank, alarms, and filter clogging. 

Waste Management

Flushing non-biodegradable items like personal hygiene products, paper towels, and wipes can overload a septic system. Because these items don’t degrade in the septic tank, they can cause clogs, damage, and the need for more frequent service. 

Drain Field Protection

Protecting the drain field is essential for an efficient septic system and minimizing the pumping frequency. To protect the drain field, don't park vehicles on it, direct runoff away from it, and ensure no bushes or trees are planted near it. 

Signs It’s Time to Pump Your Septic Tank

Few homeowners give their septic systems or septic pumping costs a thought—until something goes wrong. While regular septic tank pumping can help prevent costly repairs, there are signs a tank needs pumping sooner rather than later. Here are signs that can indicate it's time to have your tank pumped:

• Slow-Moving Drains

When the wastewater from bathing or cleaning doesn't drain as fast as it used to, it could indicate a full septic tank. 

• Unpleasant Odors 

Foul odors coming from areas near a septic tank or drain field can be a sign that a septic tank needs pumping. 

• Gurgling Sounds

Gurgling sounds coming from pipes, drains, or toilets can be caused by a backup or blockage in the septic system. 

• Standing Water 

Mud or standing water near a drain field or septic tank can be caused by a full septic tank that is overflowing.

• Septic Pumping History

Homeowners who have a septic tank that hasn't been pumped for several years should consider having it pumped even if there are no signs of trouble. 

Choosing the Right Septic Pumping Company

Choosing the best septic and plumbing service in Pierce and King Counties isn't complicated when you know what to look for. For starters, a septic company that routinely services your area will typically provide lower septic pumping costs than one that is farther away. Other factors to consider when choosing a septic service include:

• Online reviews
• References
• Insurance and licenses
• Experience and knowledge
• Service offerings
• Competitive pricing

A well-established and highly-regarded septic company has the expertise and experience to maintain and repair septic tanks and systems. Those proven skills make Sterling Septic and Plumbing uniquely qualified to service your home. Check out these commonly asked questions and   contact us to learn more. 

Septic Tank Pumping Price FAQs

Can septic pumping remove all waste from my tank?

Yes, although tanks are not scrubbed clean. When your tank is pumped, the pumper can and will remove 100% of the liquids and solids (minus rocks and dirt, if present).

What should I do before scheduling septic pumping?

While a septic pumping team handles every detail from start to finish, homeowners can help make the process easier. Here are a few things customers can do to help when possible:

• Locate the septic tank
• Determine the size of the tank
• Note the household size and typical usage
• Communicate issues such as slow-moving drains

How long does it take to pump a septic tank?

A typical septic tank that holds up to 1,200 gallons can be pumped in as little as 30 minutes. Pumping larger septic tanks that hold up to 2,000 gallons can take up to an hour or longer. How long the process takes depends on the type of equipment used, a tank's location, and other factors.