If your home uses a septic system, there are a few things you need to do in terms of maintenance. Septic systems are an effective way to deal with your home's wastewater, but for them to work, you need to take care of them properly. Not flushing things like paper towels, cooking grease, and other things that may cause clogs is vital. You will also need to have your septic tank cleaned. Here are three things to know about septic tank cleaning. 

Why You Need It

The first thing to know about septic cleaning is why it's so important. When your home's wastewater enters your septic tank, it's separated into three layers: scum, wastewater, and sludge. If too much sludge accumulates, it can lead to backups and other problems. Septic tank cleaning keeps your system performing as it should. During a septic cleaning, your septic service professional will do an inspection of your entire system to check for areas that may need repair. 

When You Need It

Now that you know why you need to clean your septic tank, it's essential to know how frequently you should schedule this service. How often a septic tank requires cleaning depends on the tank's size, how frequently you use your system, and your household's size. The larger the home, the more wastewater it produces. So if you have a big household, you may need more frequent septic tank cleaning services. Generally, you will want to schedule a septic cleaning every three to five years. However, there are instances where your tank may need to be cleaned more often. 

What It Costs

The cost of a septic tank cleaning depends primarily on the size of the septic tank. Larger tanks cost more to pump since it takes longer. The tank cleaning method used also impacts the cost. While pumping is typically the best way to clean a septic tank, hydro jetting may be needed for tanks that have not been cleaned in a long time. Most septic tanks cost $300 to $600 to clean. However, if you have a tank that hasn't been cleaned in a while, it may cost more. 

There are a few things to know about septic cleaning. First, knowing why septic cleaning is needed is vital. Second, septic tanks should be cleaned every few years to ensure your system continues to work well. Finally, you will want to consider how much cleaning your septic tank will cost.

Reach out to a company like H & H Septic Service Inc to learn more.