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15 Sep 2025

Is Septic Cleaning the Same as Pumping? – Clearing Up the Confusion

Is Septic Cleaning the Same as Pumping? – Clearing Up the Confusion

Septic systems play an essential role in processing and purifying household wastewater. Despite the importance of this system, most septic owners often overlook the importance of regular maintenance. Usually, the two different maintenance services, septic cleaning and pumping, are confused. In this article, we will cover what septic tank pumping and cleaning entail, as well as the five signs that indicate a septic system needs these services. To learn more, please contact Rooter Septic Services today.

What is Septic Tank Pumping?

Septic pumping is the process of removing any liquids and debris from the septic tank. Waste from households separates into three layers in the tank: solids at the bottom, liquids in the middle, and fats and oils at the top. During a septic tank pumping, professionals use vacuuming equipment to remove the solids that have settled to the bottom of the tank over the years, along with some of the liquids and fats in the upper layers. This process not only makes the septic system more efficient in processing wastewater, but it also helps prevent future system failures, backups, and unpleasant odors.

What is Septic Tank Cleaning?

Septic tank cleaning in Acworth is a service similar to pumping, but it goes beyond it by thoroughly removing any waste materials from the tank. The process of septic cleaning is simple. Professionals use high-pressure water jets to break up the solid waste that accumulates at the bottom of the tank, and a vacuum to clean out any remaining debris inside. If the technicians believe the bacteria within the tank require some assistance, they may help by adding bacterial additives to improve the system’s efficiency. Not only is cleaning a more comprehensive service, but it also resets the entire system, reducing the chances of future system failures. Compared to pumping, cleaning can be done less frequently and requires a consultation with a professional first.

Five Signs That A Septic System Needs Cleaning or Pumping

  • Slow Drains: Are your toilets and sinks running more slowly than usual? If so, this may be an early indication that your septic system is becoming overloaded and requires maintenance.
  • Pooling Water: If your drain field has standing water nearby, it is time to act. An overloaded system can no longer filter the wastewater properly, causing water to pool in nearby land.
  • Toilet Backup: One of the worst things a homeowner can face is a toilet backup. Sewage backing up into toilets or drains indicates that the system is over capacity and requires urgent service.
  • Unpleasant Odor: If you notice unpleasant odors near your septic system, it most likely indicates that the tank is overloaded and a gas or sewage is leaking from it. This typically occurs when the system begins to malfunction.
  • Years of Not Cleaning: If it has been more than three years since you last performed a septic maintenance service, consider this a perfect time for your septic system’s efficiency to improve.

Rooter Septic Services

Are you looking for a professional septic company to help with your septic system maintenance? At Rooter Septic Services, we are happy to lighten your burden with reliable, affordable, and accessible maintenance and repair services. Call us today to learn more about us and our services, or get estimates for your next septic service right away.