Emergency Septic Pumping at Goodman Sanitation in Portland, OR

For many property owners in Oregon, a septic tank on their property allows them to function without a connection to a municipal sewer system. Septic tanks are cost-effective and environmentally sound, but to keep them running properly they need to be regularly pumped. So how much does it cost to pump a septic tank, and how often should you contact Goodman Septic Services for maintenance?

Cost to Pump a Septic Tank

The cost to pump your septic tank averages a few hundred dollars, but the exact quote differs based on factors like:

  • Size of the tank
  • Gallons of Wastewater
  • Volume of Solids
  • Location

It’s easy to imagine that a larger tank will take longer to clear. You typically won’t have to pump as often, but when you do, it’ll cost more than a smaller tank.

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How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

The typical recommendation is that the average Oregon household should get their septic tank pumped every three to five years. Keeping up with consistent servicing will help prevent clogs and sewage backups, both of which can be a big expense to remedy. And semi-regular septic tank pumping will actually save you money every time you do it, as there will be less waste in your tank to remove. But it’s important not to pump your septic tank too often, as it’ll disrupt the ecosystem of “good bacteria” that work to breakdown the waste for filtration.

If you want a septic tank that’s maintained well by an experienced company and at a reasonable price, you can call on the technicians at Goodman Septic Services.

When Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

The average septic tank includes an outlet that keeps sludge and scum from leaving the tank and seeping into the drainfield. You should check this outlet on a regular basis, as the ratio and amount of the filth inside will tell you when to pump your tank.

Maybe the bottom layer of scum is within six inches of the outlet’s base, or the top of the sludge layer is within twelve inches. Or the mass of sludge and scum might make up more than 1/4th of the liquid depth. In all of these cases, a prompt septic tank pumping is in order.

How Else Can I Care for My Septic Tank?

There are other steps you can take aside from regular septic tank pumping that will ensure the functionality and health of your septic tank system. This can include:
  • High efficiency water fixtures that limit the amount of water that enters your septic tank, reducing the risk of malfunctions.
  • Proper washing machine usage, as washing a small load on a large-load cycle wastes water and floods your septic tank.
  • Flushing smarter. Don’t put anything down your toilet drains other than human waste and toilet paper. No paper towels or wipes, no condoms, pharmaceuticals, or even feminine hygiene products.
  • Maintaining your drainfield, which is the part of your septic system that removes contaminates. You can keep it thriving by not parking or driving over the drainfield, and keeping area clear of plants or other fixtures.

These are all important factors that must be considered when you have a septic system on your property. And it can all be managed a lot easier for properties in the greater Portland OR area with the help of a reliable sanitation company like Goodman Septic Services.

24-Hour Septic Pumping in Portland OR

Since 1948, Goodman Septic Services has been providing quality septic pumping services for homes in the Portland, Oregon metro area. Your septic tank is built to last and so are we – passing down the family business from generation to generation with your care in mind. From installations, inspections, repairs and regular pumping, we can maintain your septic tank over the entirety of its lifespan. To learn more, contact us today!