Thanks to your septic system, there's always a place for your waste matter to go. Have you ever thought about what happens if your septic tank is full? Here are four signs you need to pump your septic system.

1. It's Been Too Long Since It Was Last Pumped

As a responsible homeowner, you should keep track of the time since you have had repairs, maintenance, and inspections for various features. According to the EPA, you need septic tank pumping every three to five years. How soon you need this pumping can depend on the size of your home and how many people live in it. After all, if you have a large household filled with children, that means several people using the bathroom, so your septic tank may get full faster than a home that only has a couple with an empty nest.

2. You Can Smell Bad Odors

Nasty smells are a dead giveaway that septic pumping is long overdue. You may begin to smell raw sewage or a rotten egg-like odor creeping up through your pipeline. No amount of cleaning or air freshener can help get rid of this smell. If your drains are open, you may smell the scent in your bathrooms and kitchens. You may also notice the sewer smell when you're outside on your drain field.

3. Your Drains Are Emptying Slowly

When you have a healthy, clear drain, water should go down quickly. Once your septic tank is full, it can only take on so much more wastewater. As a result, you may notice your toilets are slowly flushing slower or may even begin stopping. Water may slowly drain from your sinks and tubs and begin to pool. This situation can eventually lead to a backup that can damage your property.

4. Loud Sounds Can Be Heard

Do you hear loud gurgling noises when water goes down the drain? That water may struggle to get past a clog from septic blockage or air bubbles trapped in the pipe. These sounds may also come with slow drainage.

Keep track of your septic pumping schedule. Doing so can ensure that you avoid a nasty and costly backup on your property. Look out for loud sounds, slow drains, and nasty smells stemming from sewage. Our local contractors can handle your septic pumping needs, as well as repair, installations, and grease trap cleaning and maintenance. For more information, contact Chipman Septic Services today.