Residential Septic Tank Pumping in East Lyme, CT
The right choice for your Connecticut residential or commercial tank pumping needs.
Why Do I Need My Tank Pumped?
Cleaning your septic tank is much like changing the oil in your car – it needs to be done so the system continues to function properly. If too much accumulates in your septic tank, problems can arise in the tank or elsewhere in your system. Pumping your property’s tank at regular intervals assists in helping your tank run smoothly.

Improve Efficiency
A tank that is too full is often times overworked and does not function at an optimal level. Pumping your tank at regular intervals will make sure it is working properly and efficiently.

Protect the Environment
A full tank can often resort in backups into the home or into your property. This can then contaminate soils and water and cause harm to your local environments.

It's Time
The time between when a tank needs to be cleaned out depends on a variety of factors, such as tank size, household size, amount of water use, etc. At Skips, we recommend a tank pumping every 1-3 years. Contact us today to find out what interval works best for your system.

Prevent Failure
The functionality of your septic tank often determines the health of the rest of your septic system. Neglecting to get regular tank cleanings can lead to tank failure as well as failure in other parts of the system.
A Closer Look
All of the waste that leaves your home finds its way to the septic tank. Solids, or sludge, stay in a properly functioning tank and liquids, or effluent, leave the tank.
To keep your tank healthy:
- Pump your tank at a regular interval
- Conserve water to avoid overworking the system
- Keep your tank clear of trees and bushes
- Do not use chemicals for clogged drains
- Do not put items that do not naturally break down in your drain (plastics, grease, chemicals, etc.)

Each Pumping Includes:
- Determining the size and type of septic tank and its distance below the ground surface.
- Inspecting both the inlet and outlet baffles for deterioration.
- Measuring the liquid level in the tank. The measurement is taken from the top of the liquid to the septic tank ceiling. This ensures that the leachfield is absorbing the liquid from the tank.
- Scanning inside tank for cracks or holes.
- Pumping of all liquid and solids out of the septic tank and into our pump truck for disposal.
- Completing a septic pumping report, which includes findings, test results, and a map with measurements to the septic tank for future reference.

Pumpout Booking
Request the date and time frame for your next pumpout.
7:30am indicates morning pumpout (7:30am – 12:00pm)
12:00pm indicates afternoon pumpout (12:00pm – 5:30pm)
F.A.Q.
Below are commonly asked questions regarding septic inspections and real estate transactions. If your question is not listed below, please call our main office at (860) 875-2332.
Do I need to be there for the pumping service?
If your pumping is for regular maintenance, then no, you do not have to be home for service. If you are having a septic problem, we would prefer someone to be at the property to flush or run water to be sure your problem was resolved.
Will there be odors while and/or after the septic pumping service?
There can be odors during and immediately after a pumping, but they should not last long. The odors are usually outside and will disperse a few hours after service.
How do I know if I need a pumpout?
If you are already a customer, you will receive an email reminder from us when you are close to being due for service. If you are experiencing slow-draining, bubbling or gurgling in the toilets and if you back up into the house (usually into the basement), that is a sure sign you need to get the tank pumped.
What do I do if I think I need a new septic system?
Call us to perform a septic inspection or further evaluation (if one has not already been performed). There could be minor or major repairs needed, depending on the reason your system is malfunctioning. If a new system is needed, soil testing would be the first step at determining the cost and criteria for a new system. Give us a call and we can set that up, taking care of all necessary permits and CBYD inquiries.
How often should I pump out my tank?
Typically, every 1-3 years, but several factors should be considered when deciding how often your septic tank needs to be serviced. You must take into account the age of the system, the number of occupants in your home, the use of a garbage disposal, and the amount of laundry being done in the home. Every system is different. What is right for your system may not be right for your neighbor’s system.
How much does it cost to have my tank pumped?
Please call us for pricing, as it is based on the volume size of the tank; digging to access covers and if you have a filter.