Septic tank systems should be pumped regularly to maintain proper wastewater flow and system functionality. Understanding the fundamentals of septic systems can help homeowners to appreciate regular pumping and exercise proper care for their septic tank investment. What happens during the septic tank cleaning process? Septic tank cleaning steps: 1. Locating the Tank Septic tank cleaning professionals locate the septic tank, conduct excavation work to open the access lid and expose the underground septic tank. 2. Examining Waste Levels The tank cleaning team inspects the waste to determine whether liquid levels are normal, high, or low. High water levels are caused by: Cracks and leaks Damaged or faulty tank baffles Malfunctioning pumps Problems in the drain field 3. Tank Pumping Septic tank cleaning professionals use vacuum trucks, a pump and hose to remove sludge by inserting the hose through the open tank lid and completely removing the contents. The hose uses a suction mechanism