Curious about what aerobic septic system maintenance entails including whether or not an aerobic septic system needs pumping? Making the choice to have an aerobic septic system has many benefits from environmental friendliness, efficiency, location flexibility and more. 

Aerobic sewer and septic systems can be a beneficial investment. To protect that investment, regular care such as pumping can also help alert you to any minor issues before they become bigger and costlier ones. In this article, we’ll explore how often aerobic septic systems need pumping and why it’s crucial for long-term performance.

How Often Should Aerobic Septic Systems Be Pumped?

Aerobic septic systems bacteria that thrives in oxygenated environment. An aerobic septic system consists of multiple chambers and an aerator pump to bring in oxygenated air. Aerobic sewer systems are more efficient that their slower acting anaerobic septic systems making them a popular and efficient choice. 

Importance of Aerobic Septic System Maintenance

Like any system, it’s important to schedule regular aerobic septic system maintenance, including pumping. is essential for the system’s longevity and efficiency. Delayed maintenance can leave you with serious problems including blockages, system failure and very costly cleanup and repairs. Regular aerobic septic tank maintenance including aerobic septic tank pumping can help catch small issues before they become larger, more expensive problems.

So we are back to the question of when does an aerobic septic system need pumping? While the average time between aerobic septic system pumping is 3-5 years, if you just purchased a home with an existing aerobic septic tank you may not know when the most recent pumping was done.  There are a few telltale signs that your aerobic septic system needs attention:



• Slow drains
• Water or outflow back ups.
• Foul odors.
• System Alarms

If any of these happen it’s a good idea to have a professional like the experts at We Pump It Septic check it out. Our team of licensed professionals can also inspect your system to give you an idea of when it’s due for its next pumping. Regular monitoring of system components, such as alarms and aerators, can help you stay on top of potential issues before they escalate.

What's the Difference Between an Aerobic Septic System and a Septic System?

If you’ve always lived in an area connected to municipal water and sewer services, you may not have had any experience with different septic tank systems previously. They fall into 2 categories:



Anaerobic Septic Systems:  Anaerobic septic systems use bacteria to process the solid waste. Over time liquid wastewater is slowly filtered into the soil in what is known as a leach field. These are also referred to as traditional septic systems and are less complicated mechanically. While they are effective they are less efficient at processing solid waste.

Aerobic Septic Systems: While aerobic septic systems also use bacteria, it’s bacteria that feeds on oxygenated air brought in by an aerator pump, helping bacteria break down waste more quickly and efficiently. They are also able to be installed in smaller areas or areas with poor soil conditions that may make a traditional septic system undesirable. 

Keep Your Aerobic Septic System in Top Shape

Your aerobic septic system works hard, keep it working at its best with regular maintenance and care. Get your system inspected every 3 years, follow a regular pumping schedule of every 3-5 years. Taking these simple and proactive steps will make sure your aerobic septic system operates optimally for many years to come. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your next pumping service with We Pump It Septic today! We proudly serve homeowners throughout Hearne, Texas ensuring that their septic systems stay in top shape for years to come.