For routine maintenance a tank should be pumped every two to three years. The following are some signs that you need to have your tanked pumped soon:

> Backing Up - If you are backing up into your house from your outgoing pipe in your basement and other drainage points in your house, discontinue any water usage and get serviced as soon as possible  

> Slow Drainage - If you notice that all your drains are going down slow this could be a septic issue. However, if it is a specific drain, than it is most likely an internal problem and you may need to contact a plumber.

> Gurgling - A gurgling or bubbling noise is a sign that you need to be serviced fairly soon.

> Surfacing - If you notice that there is surfacing over your cover then you may have to be pumped. This can also occur if your outgoing baffle is clogged.