How Much To Have Septic Tank Pumped (2024)

You may be wondering “what is the cost to pump a septic tank?”. This post should give you an idea what to expect when hiring a company to pump your septic tank system. Pumping a septic tank can cost anywhere from $100 to $350 in the U.S. in 2024.

Average Cost to Pump Out a Septic Tank

The size of your tank will be a determining factor on the price to pump your tank. Realistically the cost to pump it can range anywhere from $100 to $350 or even more. Some companies charge a flat fee for pumping your septic tank while others may charge by the hour.

A lower-end cost estimate: A smaller septic tank could cost you as little as $100 to pump it out. A higher-end cost estimate: A larger septic tank may cost you from $200-$350 or more to pump it out.

What You Should Expect When Having Your Septic Tank Pumped

You should use a licensed, experienced professional to pump your septic tank due to the health hazards caused by the waste.
Check your records or contact the city you live in to find out the age and construction of your septic tank before pumping it – an older or weak septic tank could fall apart if it is pumped.
Do not have your septic tank pumped if your property is or has been flooded from a storm or other natural disaster. Doing so could cause the septic tank to float out of the ground and damage it or cause groundwater and mud to run into the septic tank.
Be wary of using any chemicals that claim that they will eliminate pumping needs – they can cause the sludge layer in the tank to expand and plug the drainfield, causing damage to your septic tank.
Your septic tank should be inspected at least every 1-3 years for buildup until you can determine the best pumping itinerary for your needs.
Installing a septic tank filter that protects the leachfield/ drainfield can extend the septic tanks life.
A septic tank will, in most cases will generally last for 20 to 30 years before it needs replacing. Regular pumping and routine maintenance will ensure that you get the most out of your septic tank.

Some Other Determining Factors About Your Septic Tank

The type of septic system you have – Aerobic, Standard, Low-Pressure Dosing, etc. each will require somewhat different pumping methods.
The number of tanks you have – Aerobic and Low-Pressure Dosing septic systems will always have more capacity, but Standard systems can have numerous tanks as well.
The cost of digging– If your septic tank lids are buried, you may be required to dig them up, or the company you hire may do that for you (be sure to see if there is an extra charge for them to dig).
The dump fees – A pumping/cleaning price may not include dump fees for the truck to empty the waste that was taken out of your septic tank. Check with the company you hire.

*These are cost estimates. Contact the team at A-American Septic Service for more information!