You don’t want to wait until the tank is full to call residential plumbing services to get a septic pump out–trust me. According to Home Advisor, it costs $433 on average to have a septic pump out and cleaning, while it costs $1,763 to have the septic system repaired.

Instead of waiting until the very last minute, families should get a septic pump out when the tank is about 30% to 50% full, which occurs every three to five years. However, there are ways to reduce the number of septic pump outs needed. Here’s a few tips to help!

1. Improve You Water Usage.

Conserving water and increase your usage efficiency helps to reduce the load of waste water that your septic system can handle. This generally means shorter showers, shutting the water off while brushing teeth or shaving, and repairing any leaky pipes and faucets.

2. Can You Really Flush That?

Toilet paper is really the only thing your family should flush down the commode. Disposable diapers, cigarette butts, sanitary products, paper towels, and even tissues will damage to the tank. In order to minimize the amount of septic pump outs your family will need, try not to flush things unnecessarily.

3. Compost.

Instead of using your garbage disposal, try composting instead. Your septic system isn’t meant to handle food products, which will harm the tank and lead to more septic pump outs.

If you follow these three tips, you’ll surely need fewer septic pump outs in the future. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments.