When to book a pump-out
- It has been three years or more, or you do not know when it was last done
- Drains are slow throughout the house
- Sewage smell near the tank or the bed
- Wet, spongy or unusually green grass over the bed
- You are buying or selling the home
What to expect
The hauler needs access to the tank lid or lids. If yours are buried, ask whether they can dig them up or plan to uncover them yourself. A typical residential pump-out takes under an hour.
Ask the hauler to note the condition of the baffles and the effluent filter. They are cheap to fix and protect the bed.
Where we can help
We connect homeowners with septic pumping contractors in Guelph, Puslinch & Aberfoyle, Erin & Hillsburgh, Rockwood & Guelph/Eramosa, Fergus & Elora and Ayr & North Dumfries.
Questions about septic pumping
How often should my tank be pumped?
Every three to five years for most households. Larger families, garbage disposals and water softeners that discharge to the tank shorten the interval.
Do I need to be home?
Not always. If the lids are exposed and the hauler can reach them, many companies can pump while you are out.