Do septic tanks need to be emptied? If so how often should they be emptied?

I am curious about these questions myself, but am not so sure this is something that I would want to do. Calling a plumber would be a better option for me since they actually know how to do this. This way I would be able to learn about this but have it be easier for me. http://barrowssepticservice.com/

The septic systems needs to be examined once every year, including when the house is put available to be purchased. This will improve the home's estimation and avoid any risk issues that may come about because of a failing system.
Septic tanks ought to be checked for buildup each 1 to 3 years until you can get on an anticipated pumping plan. Most septic tanks need pumping each 3 to 5 years. How frequently relies on upon the size of the tank, the number of people in the family, and type of solids entering the tank.
Home page TG Wastewater

Yes, they septic tanks need to be pumped our in a regular interval.
Generally, a properly designed tanks have enough space for up to 3-5 years' of safe accumulation of sludge. At the point when the sludge level increased beyond this, sewage has less time to settle appropriately before leaving the tank.
It is recommended that systems be pumped once every 3 years.

I don't know about being emptied, but you'll want to look into having it properly pumped for sure. I would suggest talking to a technician to see how often they suggest you have it done. You can usually stretch it out a bit longer than they recommend, but you will want to at least moderately follow their suggestions. Hopefully you get the service you need.
http://www.aaacesspool.com

Have your septic tank pumped once every 5 years ($250 was my cost), I just went ten years since my last pump-out.
Side note: My chimney sweep said I should clean my wood stove ducting every year...I do it every five years.
Most professionals will have you "over maintain" their products (more service calls for them).

If everything is going as it should and the sludge in your septic tank is decomposing properly you shouldn't need to empty the tank too often, but its a good idea to periodically pump out the tank to ensure against problems. You should be getting your tanked checked once a year at a minimum.