Septic Tank Pumping
About This Project
Septic tank pumping is a task that requires professional expertise due to health and environmental hazards.
Tools & Materials
Shovel
JONES STEPHENS 48 in. Length Steel Probing Rod with Ball Point for Pipes P27040
Aero-Stream 23.5 in. Dia x 29 in. Septic Tank Riser Kit 102578
Cen-Tec 45 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum Ercules HEPA High Volume Commercial with Accessories 95314
CertainTeed Vac-Matic 4 in. x 50 ft. Vacuum Hose UUF4.0X50
HYDROMAXX 2 in. Part B Aluminum Female Coupler for Lay Flat Discharge Backwash and Suction Hoses Alum-B-200
Shovel
Digs, lifts, and moves with ease.
JONES STEPHENS 48 in. Length Steel Probing Rod with Ball Point for Pipes P27040
Jones Stephens has built its reputation over the years as a leader in the plumbing industry, providing the market with thousands of products to complete any project. If you need it, we got it. This steel
Aero-Stream 23.5 in. Dia x 29 in. Septic Tank Riser Kit 102578
Septic tank riser kits are used to raise the tank opening to ground level for easy maintenance. The kits include everything required for installation except for simple hand tools. These kits are extremely
Cen-Tec 45 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum Ercules HEPA High Volume Commercial with Accessories 95314
The Ercules was engineered to address applications where something more than the traditional wet-dry vacuum is necessary due to the volume of debris or liquids collected. The dual motor head includes 2 commercial by-pass motors providing the necessary water lift for effective collection of liquids and high airflow to ensure the material is carried effectively back to the collection bin. The Ercules is a 2 motor HEPA commercial vacuum designed for volume collection of liquid or dry material. 2 bypass Ametek motors deliver 94.5 in. of water lift and 240 CFM of airflow providing effective collection of liquid or solid waste. The motors are independently controlled through switches on the control dash board allowing 1 or both motors to be employed as demanded by the application. The top fill design of the Ercules ensures maximum capacity in the 50 Gal. collection bin with 45 Gal. of effective capacity wet or dry. The Ercules has a washable large surface area HEPA filter insuring clean air exhaust and effective capture of 99.9 % of fine particulate 3 mic and larger. The filter can remain in place during wet-use and washed using clean water as deemed necessary. The Ercules is equipped with an easy to read site gauge for quick confirmation of the remaining capacity for liquids in the collection bin.
CertainTeed Vac-Matic 4 in. x 50 ft. Vacuum Hose UUF4.0X50
This Heavy-Duty Vacuum Hose is intended for use with the 4 in. Vac-Matic Insulation Removal Vacuum. Made of reinforced plastic, the hose is durable and crush resistant. The 4 in. inside diameter hose is 50 ft. long.
HYDROMAXX 2 in. Part B Aluminum Female Coupler for Lay Flat Discharge Backwash and Suction Hoses Alum-B-200
Aluminum Part B Female Coupler x Male MPT. These couplers are supplied with locking feature safety clips which may be inserted to lock handles, preventing disconnection during product transfer. Aluminum
Steps
Prepare Pumping Equipment
45 minutesPosition the vacuum truck in a location that allows for the shortest hose run to the septic tank. Unreel the vacuum hoses, checking for any cracks or damage. Connect the hoses to the truck's pump and ensure all valves are in the correct positions for suction.
Watch: pump out septic tank
Pump Septic Tank
60 minutesInsert the vacuum hose into the septic tank, typically through the largest opening. Start the vacuum pump and allow it to draw out the contents. Move the hose around to ensure all solids and liquids are removed from the bottom of the tank. Continue pumping until no more waste can be extracted.
Watch: Pump Down Inlet SideInspect Tank Interior
20 minutesAfter pumping, use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the tank. Check the depth of the sludge layer at the bottom and the thickness of the scum layer at the top. Look for any cracks, leaks, or blockages in the inlet and outlet pipes. Note the condition of the baffles.
Watch: Final Assessment and Completion
Common Problems
You can't find the septic tank or its access lid, leading to unnecessary digging and wasted effort.
Solution: Start by consulting your property's 'as-built' drawings or a septic system diagram, often available from your local health department or previous homeowner. Use the JONES STEPHENS 48 in. Length Steel Probing Rod to systematically probe the ground in the likely areas (often 10-20 feet from the house, on the downhill side). Look for softer soil or distinct changes in resistance indicating a buried structure.
Prevention: When you successfully locate and open the tank, create a simple sketch or take GPS coordinates of its exact location relative to fixed points on your property. Consider installing a Septic Tank Riser Kit (like the Aero-Stream 23.5 in. Dia x 29 in. Septic Tank Riser Kit) to bring the access lid to grade, making future access much easier.
The septic tank lid is extremely heavy, stuck, or difficult to remove safely, risking injury or damage to the tank.
Solution: Do not attempt to lift the lid with just your hands or a small tool. Use the Husky Pry Bar Set to gently loosen the edges of the lid from any surrounding soil or sealant. Then, position the Omega Lift 6-Ton Heavy-Duty Dual Positions Lift Hydraulic Toe Jack underneath the edge of the lid (if possible, or use blocking to create a stable lifting point). Slowly raise one side of the lid, propping it securely with sturdy wood blocks. Once lifted enough, carefully slide the lid off the opening or use additional pry bars to maneuver it out of the way. Always have a helper, and keep your hands and feet clear of the lid's path.
Prevention: Ensure you have the correct heavy-duty lifting tools like pry bars and a hydraulic jack readily available. Clear away any dirt or debris from around the lid before attempting to open it. If possible, avoid letting the lid become deeply buried between pumpings.
The vacuum pump (VEVOR Rotary Vane Vacuum Pump and Cen-Tec 45 Gal. Wet/Dry Vacuum) is running, but it's not creating effective suction or losing prime, preventing proper pumping.
Solution: First, check all hose connections, especially the HYDROMAXX 2 in. Part B Aluminum Female Coupler for Lay Flat Discharge Hoses and the vacuum hose attachments, for leaks. Tighten any loose connections. Ensure the vacuum hose is fully submerged in the septic liquid and not sucking air. Inspect the vacuum pump's seals and gaskets for any damage or improper seating. If using the wet/dry vacuum, ensure its filter is clean and properly installed, and the canister lid is sealed tightly.
Prevention: Before starting, perform a quick check of all seals, gaskets, and connections on your pumping equipment. Ensure hoses are free of cracks or damage. Always confirm the hose is fully submerged in the liquid to be pumped before turning on the vacuum pump.
You experience dizziness, nausea, or a strong rotten egg smell while the septic tank is open, indicating exposure to hazardous septic gases.
Solution: Immediately move away from the open tank to an area with fresh air. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical attention. Do not attempt to continue working near the tank until the air has cleared or you have appropriate respiratory protection. Ventilate the area as much as possible.
Prevention: Always ensure the work area is well-ventilated. Never lean directly over an open septic tank. Work upwind if possible. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and eye protection. Consider using a respirator rated for organic vapors and hydrogen sulfide if you must work in a poorly ventilated area, though professional pumpers are trained for this and have specialized equipment.
The pumping hose (CertainTeed Vac-Matic 4 in. x 50 ft. Vacuum Hose) becomes clogged with thick sludge or solid waste, stopping the pumping process.
Solution: Turn off the vacuum pump immediately. Carefully remove the hose from the tank. If possible and safe, try to gently back-flush the hose with water from the discharge end, or manually work the clog out from the tank end with a long stick or probe. If the clog is stubborn, disconnect the hose sections and clear them individually. Never try to force the pump to clear a clog, as this can damage the equipment.
Prevention: Use a hose with a sufficiently large diameter (like the 4-inch hose specified) to handle sludge. Avoid trying to pump large, insoluble objects that may have entered the tank. For extremely thick sludge, gently agitating the tank contents with a long pole before pumping (without damaging baffles) can help break down solids, but this should be done with caution to avoid disturbing the sludge layer too much.
After pumping, the septic tank lid (or Septic Tank Riser Cover) doesn't seal properly when replaced, leading to foul odors, insect infestations, or potential surface water entry.
Solution: Carefully remove the lid again. Thoroughly clean the rim of the tank opening and the underside of the lid, removing all dirt, debris, or old sealant using Scott Rags in A Box. Ensure the surfaces are smooth and free of obstructions. If a gasket was present, ensure it's clean and intact, or replace it if damaged. Replace the lid, making sure it sits evenly and securely. For risers, ensure all bolts or fasteners are tightened properly.
Prevention: Always clean the tank rim and lid thoroughly before re-sealing. Visually inspect the lid and tank opening for any damage that might prevent a proper seal. If installing a riser, ensure it's level and the cover fits snugly and can be securely fastened.
