Clean the septic tank regularly, this should be done approximately every three years. Record the date of cleaning for future reference.
If you are using an insinkerator or waste disposal unit your septic tank will need to be cleaned out yearly
Scrape all dishes to remove fats and food before washing.
Keep all possible solids out of the system, including personal hygiene products.
Do not use a waste disposal unit.
Use biodegradable soaps and washing powders.
Refrain from putting paint, chemicals, household cleaners, oils or garden sprays down the drain.
Use reduced amounts of cleaning agents.
Do not wash clothes until you have a full load.
Install water saving devices such as dual flushing toilets.
Take showers instead of baths.
Fix leaky taps.
Do not allow vehicles or stock on the disposal field.
Keep the vent of the septic tank clear.
Divert storm water runoff away from the disposal area.
Don’t grow deep rooting trees or shrubs over soakage trenches or pipes.
Septic tank cleaners.
Plumbers are the appropriate professionals to contact for any required repairs or maintenance work.
Consult a chartered engineer if your replacement system requires specific design.
Our staff can also help you with advice regarding the design or maintenance of your septic tank system.
How do I tell when the septic tank system is failing?
Sinks and toilets are slow to drain.
There is a smell of sewage near the septic tank or the disposal field.
Wastewater is pooling on the surface of the disposal field.
Infrequent cleaning causing a build up of sludge in the tank.
Tree roots in the pipes.
Fractures or damage to the pipes.
The soakage field is in a waterlogged area.
Unsuitable materials are going down the drains, such as fats, oils, greases and soap scum. A build up of non-biodegradable substances can eventually coat the sand and gravel, reducing the permeability of the gravel disposal field.
The tank is too small - often the use the tank was designed for will change over time. For example, a bach that grows into a permanent home, or, modern appliances such as automatic washing machines and dishwashers being installed, which increases the volume of water within the system.