Septic system professionals pump septic tanks. Not all plumbers pump septic tanks, so make sure you hire a professional who specializes in this service.

Pros in different states will have different licensing and certification regulations. Make sure the company you hire is licensed and certified, is a legitimate business, and has the appropriate insurance. Damage to your septic system could cost thousands of dollars in cleanup and repair, so it’s best to hire a qualified professional from the start.

For more tips, visit Thumbtack's Smart Hiring guide.

The national average cost to clean or pump a septic tank ranges from around $355 to $575*, according to Thumbtack data.

Costs for septic cleaning may vary based on where you live, how large your septic tank is, and how long it has been since the last cleaning. If it’s been many years since you’ve had your tank cleaned, the process of breaking up and removing the solids may take longer and could cost more. Repairs or replacement parts will also add to your cost.

To keep your septic tank in good health between cleanings, only flush approved items such as toilet paper, and don’t rely on your garbage disposal for composting. Items that don’t break down easily (like lemon rinds or feminine hygiene products) can back up the septic system, leading to clogs and overflow. If you smell the unmistakable odor of sewage or can see sewage bubbling up above your drain field, schedule a septic cleaning immediately.

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

If you live in a location with cold winters, the best time of year to empty your septic tank is usually in summer or early fall. This can help ensure that the tank's contents won’t be frozen and that the professional won't have to contend with snow and ice to access it.

Timing usually isn't as important in areas that don't freeze in the winter. However, if you get a lot of rain, that might make it difficult to access your septic system. So, consider booking before the rainy season.

If you live in an area where septic tanks are common, you might want to start looking at scheduling service and maintenance a little earlier in the year so you can book before pros get busy. Consider contacting service providers in late spring to book for early summer.

Servicing a septic system usually means inspecting the tank and other elements to make sure there are no cracks or damage. The septic tank professional will typically check any filters and valves to make sure they work properly, then pump and flush the system if needed.

During the pumping process, a pro will usually:

• Dig and remove ground cover (if necessary to access the lid)

• Open the access lid to access the tank

• Use a vacuum hose to pump out the waste and transfer it to their truck's tank

• Use a muck rake or high-pressure water jet to break up solid waste to make the removal process easier

• Secure the lid and restore ground cover

While a tank’s size and the amount of waste inside can affect how long a job will take, the typical time needed to pump a septic tank is about 30 to 60 minutes.

However, the septic pump itself can speed up or drag out the process. Some operate at a rate of 20 gallons of sewage per minute, and others can pump 30 gallons a minute. 

When you call a septic service professional, they can give you an estimated timeframe based on your pump’s speed, the tank’s size and other factors. Make sure your septic tank is well-marked and easy to access to help avoid delays.  

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

Most septic systems are fairly low-maintenance. They typically only require inspection every one to three years, and they should be pumped every three to five years. 

Septic system maintenance usually includes:

• Pumping out the tank's contents

• Checking the tank and related equipment for cracks or damage

• Inspecting, cleaning or replacing the effluent filter.

If there are any signs of clogs or other issues, the professional that services your system will usually clear them. If there’s any damage to address, they might also tell you what repairs are needed and how much they will cost.

There are a few things you can do at home to help maintain your septic system. Consider these tips from the Environmental Protection Agency:

• Don’t flush anything besides human waste and toilet paper down the toilet

• Avoid pouring chemicals down sinks to clear clogs 

• Avoid pouring grease, oil or fat down sinks

• Keep your drainfield clear of trees, and don’t park or drive on the field 

• Ensure water drainage systems are not close to to your drainfield