A septic tank is the first component of a home wastewater system that collects all the refuse that goes down the drains of your home or business if you are not hooked up to a municipal sewer system. Most residential tanks start from 1650 L in size and are buried underground.

The rule of thumb for septic pump outs is 2-5 years, but it all depends on use. Not all waste is organic; the sludge layer in the bottom of the tank contains a lot of dirt from clothes washing that will never decompose, and the scum layer contains grease from dishwashing that will float forever in the tank.

When either of these layers encroaches on the baffles (threaten to leave the tank by underflowing or overflowing the baffles), or when the tank volume has been reduced, your drain field is at risk and the tank needs to be pumped.

• To save money: An overflowing, blocked or damaged septic system is expensive to repair or replace, as opposed to a regular pump out, which is much cheaper.

• All systems require maintenance: When septic systems are properly designed, constructed, and maintained, they effectively reduce or eliminate most human health or environmental threats posed by pollutants in household wastewater. However, they require regular maintenance throughout their serviceable lives or they can fail.

• Protect health and the environment: Inadequately treated sewage from septic systems can be a cause of groundwater contamination. It poses a significant threat to drinking water and human health because it can contaminate drinking water wells and cause diseases and infections in people and animals.

• Protect the value of your property: An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value and potentially delay or prevent a sale.

The warning signs of a failing system are:

• Sewage surfacing over the drainfield.

• Lush, green growth or soggy areas over the drainfield.

• Slow or backed up drains, toilets or sinks.

• Sewage odours around the property.

• Poor well water test results.

 No. At best, you will waste money and gain nothing. At worst, you can will damage your septic system and harm the environment.

Septic tank additives fall into three categories: inorganic compounds, organic solvents, and biological additives. 

Companies market inorganic additives, generally strong acids or alkalis, for their ability to open clogged drains. These contain similar ingredients to popular drain cleaners and can destroy the biological function of your septic tank, sterilizing it for days, allowing raw sewage to flow directly into your drainfield, potentially clogging pipes and soil pores. These types of products can also corrode concrete tanks and distribution boxes, causing them to leak and potentially break apart. Research found hydrogen peroxide degrades soil structure in a drainfield, reducing its ability to treat and absorb wastewater effluent.

Organic solvent additives contain concentrated amounts of chemicals used for degreasing machine parts due to their effectiveness at breaking down oils and grease. Unfortunately, these products also kill bacteria and other beneficial microbes in your tank and may contaminate groundwater.

Biological additives combine enzymes and bacteria to supposedly enhance the existing biota in septic tanks to provide a start for new systems or to augment stressed systems. For new systems, many people believe you must add bacteria. While septic systems require bacteria to work, no additives are required. Normal use of your septic systems provides sufficient bacteria.

We are currently in the process of creating our own informative videos about septic tanks, and our services. In the meantime you can expect something like these videos, but with a touch of Aussie Charm! If you have any specific questions about our service, please give us a call.