How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank?

This is one of the most common questions we get—and it’s a good one. While the general recommendation is to have your septic tank pumped every 3 to 5 years, the real answer depends on a variety of factors that are unique to your household and system.

If you’re not sure how often to pump or are simply looking for trusted, affordable septic service, you’re in the right place. At Anything Outdoors Septic and Excavating, we offer septic tank pumping starting at just $325 for 1,000-gallon tanks and $400 for 1,500-gallon tanks.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to keep your system running smoothly.

Key Factors That Affect Pumping Frequency

Every home is different, and several variables influence how often your septic tank should be serviced. Here are the most important ones:

1. Tank Size

Larger tanks can handle more wastewater and solids, allowing for longer intervals between pump-outs.

2. Household Size

The number of people living in your home has a direct impact on how quickly your tank fills up. More people = more water use = faster fill-up.

3. Water Usage Habits

Do you take long showers, run multiple laundry loads each day, or use a dishwasher frequently? High water usage accelerates the need for pumping.

4. What Goes Down the Drain

Things like cooking grease, food scraps, and so-called “flushable” wipes can build up quickly and cause blockages. It’s important to treat your septic system with care.

Suggested Septic Tank Pumping Chart

Use the chart below as a general guide to estimate your ideal pumping schedule based on your tank size and household occupancy:

Tank Size (Gallons)	1 Person	2 People	3 People	4 People	5 People	6 People	7 People	8 People	9 People	10 People
1,000	12 yrs	5.5 yrs	3.5 yrs	2.5 yrs	2 yrs	1.5 yrs	1 yr	1 yr	0.8 yrs	0.7 yrs
1,250	15.5 yrs	7.5 yrs	4.5 yrs	3 yrs	2.5 yrs	2 yrs	1.5 yrs	1 yr	1 yr	1 yr
1,500	19 yrs	9 yrs	6 yrs	4 yrs	3 yrs	2.5 yrs	2 yrs	2 yrs	1.5 yrs	1 yr
2,000	25 yrs	12 yrs	8 yrs	6 yrs	4.5 yrs	3.5 yrs	3 yrs	2.5 yrs	2 yrs	2 yrs
2,250	28 yrs	14 yrs	9 yrs	6.5 yrs	5 yrs	4 yrs	3.5 yrs	3 yrs	2.5 yrs	2.3 yrs
2,500	31 yrs	15.5 yrs	10 yrs	7.5 yrs	6 yrs	5 yrs	4 yrs	3.5 yrs	3 yrs	2.5 yrs

💡 Pro Tip: Even if the chart says you can go 10+ years, we don’t recommend waiting more than five years between pump-outs unless your system is engineered for longer intervals. Regular maintenance is key to protecting your home and the environment.

Our Septic Pumping Pricing

We believe in transparency and fair pricing. Our standard rates are:

• $325 for a 1,000-gallon tank

• $400 for a 1,500-gallon tank

**Above prices updated on 5/12/2025.

Need help figuring out your tank size or last service date? No problem—give us a call, and we’ll guide you through the process.

Why Septic Pumping Matters

Pumping your septic tank is more than just routine upkeep—it’s critical to your system’s health. Here’s what regular pumping helps prevent:

• Sewage backups into your home

• Drain field failure and costly repairs

• Nasty odors and environmental contamination

• Premature tank or system replacement

Avoid Costly Mistakes: Tips for Septic System Care

In addition to routine pumping, here are a few best practices to keep your septic system in top shape:

✅ Conserve water: Install water-saving fixtures and fix leaks quickly.

✅ Be mindful of waste: Never flush anything besides human waste and toilet paper.

✅ Skip the harsh chemicals: Avoid bleach, antibacterial cleaners, and other products that harm your tank's natural bacteria.

❌ No “flushable” wipes: Despite the name, they don’t break down and can lead to blockages and system damage.

Advanced Septic System Options

Looking for a smarter, longer-lasting solution? We offer:

Remote Septic Monitoring Systems

Get peace of mind with real-time tracking of your system’s performance. We'll catch problems early—before they become emergencies.

RioVation Aerobic Treatment Systems

Ideal for homes with aging or failing systems, this advanced technology provides enhanced treatment, helps restore failing fields, and offers long-term reliability.

Need Septic Service? Call the Pros at Anything Outdoors Septic and Excavating

Whether you need your tank pumped, inspected, or upgraded, Anything Outdoors Septic and Excavation is here to help. We serve local homeowners with dependable, professional septic services at a fair price.

Call (517) 295-7757 or submit our online form today to schedule your service or ask about a maintenance plan tailored to your system. We're here to keep things flowing—so you don't have to worry.