Ontario Septic ProOntario

Septic tank pumping

How often a tank needs pumping depends on its size, the household and what goes down the drains; the levels found at each visit guide the next interval.

Septic tank pumper truck parked on a village street
Photo: User:ŠJů, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

How often a tank needs pumping depends on its size, the household and what goes down the drains; the levels found at each visit guide the next interval.

Do this first

  • Cut water use: spread out laundry, showers and the dishwasher.
  • Keep people, pets and vehicles off wet spots and away from any sewage.
  • Never enter or lean into a septic tank: the gases inside can be deadly.
  • Note when the tank was last pumped and where the lids are, if you know.

Slow drains, odours or a backup? Tell us what is happening. Request septic service