What is a septic tank?
If a building is not connected to the main sewage system or has poor drainage there must be a way of dealing with wastewater and often the solution is to install a septic tank, which is essentially an onsite sewage facility.
The septic tank is an underwater sedimentation tank, usually made from fibreglass, plastic or concrete which is used for wastewater treatment. Basically, it collects the household’s wastewater from bathrooms, kitchens, washing machines drains and other areas and then treats it through the process of biological decomposition and drainage. It has various compartment and usually a T-shaped outlet that blocks the sludge and scum from leaving the tank and getting into the drain field area where the treated water is finally dispersed. Now imagine, over constant daily use just how that sludge can eventually build up and the tank begin to overflow. That’s why septic tank emptying is always required at some point.
How can you tell when your septic tank needs emptying?
Sludge build up, or when your septic tank gets overfilled means septic tank emptying is necessary. When the tank becomes overfilled the drainage field will stop accepting water, so the water backs up into the overflow tank. Signs of this include
Pooling water
Pools of water in the drain field happens when the tank is at full capacity and solid water blocks the system. This forces liquid to the top of the ground.
Draining slows
If water is slow to drain from the toilet or sink, it could be a sign that your septic tank system is clogged up.
Smells
If the wastewater from your home is backing up into your septic tank you are likely to experience unpleasant odours.
Bright green grass
When your lawn looks in terrific condition, especially close to the septic tank area it could be that the tank needs emptying.
Sewer backs up
If the lowest drains in the house look like they’re backed up, you really do need to call in the septic tank emptying expert.
Pipes gurgle
Gurgling pipes could be a sign that you need your septic tank emptying.
Flushing
When you’re having trouble with your toilet flush, it’s time to get your septic tank emptied.
Why is it important to regularly empty your septic tank?
Not emptying your septic tank not only results in bad smells and problems with your plumbing but it can be detrimental to the environment and the health of everyone at the property. Sewage seeping out into the drainage field isn’t something anyone wants, plus if you allow waste to build up in the tank it could actually damage it. A much more costly option in the long run.
How often should you empty a septic tank?
The recommendation for tank emptying is yearly. Leaving a tank longer than this period would increase the chances of breakdown and increase the disposal charge making the price increase. A yearly empty is likely to cost around £200. If you leave a tank over 5 Years, it’s likely to cost closer to a £1000 due to the increased time on site and the viscosity of the waste. If you do not empty a septic tank on a treatment plant for a long period of time, this is also likely to result in a costly breakdown.
Septic tanks should be maintained as per the manufacturer’s instructions, and most require septic tanks to be empties and serviced each year to keep their warranties valid.
To find out more about our septic tank service and how we can help, head to our septic tank emptying page or contact us today on 01759 380646.