How often should you pump a septic tank?

Pumping frequency depends on tank size and how many people live in the home. A family of four with a 1,000-gallon tank is on the shorter end; two people with a 1,500-gallon tank can stretch it. Waiting too long lets solids build up and flow into the drain field, which is the part you never want to clog — replacing a field costs far more than routine pumping. If you are not sure when yours was last done, an inspection will tell you. In Litchfield County, many operators will put you on a reminder schedule.