A story in Popular Mechanics magazine addressed a reader’s question about recommended septic tank pumping frequency. The quick answer was that tanks should be inspected annually and pumped every three to five years. The magazine rightly explained that the best answer depends on how big the tank is and how many people reside in the house (I’d add that the habits of the users are another factor). Kudos to the magazine for also recommending the reader seek the advice of a septic service professional.

But what jumped out at me about the story was the writer sharing an old wives’ tale that tossing a dead chicken into the septic tank every year will promote bacterial action that eliminates the need for pumping. Popular Mechanics was frequently asked about the dead chicken question in the past, according to the writer, who raised it again simply to discredit the advice.

It made me wonder, though, what’s the strangest question a customer has ever asked you about their septic system? If you’ve been pumping for any significant period or time, I’m sure you’ve heard some real head-scratchers. Send your stories to me at editor@pumper.com.

Or better yet, click on the Facebook icon on the top of this page and share your story with other Pumper fans. And to take it one step further, explain how you educated customers about proper septic system maintenance.