Adhering to best practices is key to maintaining your septic system and optimising its longevity. Here are essential dos for septic tank care:

• Schedule routine inspections and pump your septic tank every 3-5 years. This helps manage sludge layers and prevents blockages. Speak to an expert about your tank’s specific requirements to schedule a suitable maintenance window.
• Use water-saving fixtures and spread out water usage to reduce the load on your septic system. This prevents overloading and helps to maintain the tank's efficiency.
• We would advise that you don’t flush anything into your septic system aside from human waste and toilet paper.
• Add septic tank bacteria additives to help break down solid waste and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the tank.
• Keep vehicles and heavy equipment off the drain field to prevent damage. Plant grass or shallow-rooted plants around the area to prevent soil erosion.

Why Is It Important To Care for Your Septic Tank?

Financial Savings

Making an initial investment in regular septic system care and maintenance can result in significant long-term savings. By adhering to a strict maintenance schedule, property owners can prevent costly repairs and replacements of their septic system. A well-maintained septic tank is less likely to suffer from overflow, which can lead to severe property damage and expensive clean-ups. Regular inspections and pump-outs keep the system functioning efficiently, prevent blockages and extend the lifespan of the tank and drainage field. Additionally, proactive maintenance helps to avoid environmental contamination and potential fines associated with negligent septic care.

Health and Safety

Malfunctioning septic systems pose a significant health risk by exposing you, your family, and neighbours to harmful pathogens and pollutants. When a septic system fails, liquid waste can seep into the ground and surface water, and contaminate local water supplies. This contamination can lead to serious illnesses, including gastrointestinal infections, hepatitis, and other waterborne diseases. Moreover, exposure to untreated sewage can cause skin infections and respiratory issues. Regular maintenance optimises the system’s operational efficiency, preventing leaks and overflows that could compromise health and safety. By maintaining your septic system, you are protecting not only your household but also the wider community from potential health hazards.

Property Value

A well-maintained septic system enhances your property’s value and could make it more attractive to potential buyers. Prospective homeowners are more likely to invest in a property where they can be confident that the septic system is in excellent working order. Regular upkeep prevents issues such as unpleasant odours, unsightly overflows, and costly repairs, all of which can deter buyers. Additionally, demonstrating a history of diligent septic system maintenance provides assurance of the property's overall care, and may contribute to a positive perception and potentially higher resale value.

Environmental Impact

A poorly functioning system increases the risk of untreated wastewater contaminating nearby soils, groundwater, and watercourses. This contamination can harm the environment by introducing harmful chemicals and pathogens into the ecosystem, disrupting local wildlife and plant life.

Septic Tank Don'ts

Proper care involves knowing what not to put into your septic system. The following items should never be flushed down the toilet or poured down the drain:

• Non-biodegradable items - Wet wipes, sanitary products, nappies, cotton balls, dental floss, cigarette butts, paper towels, and plastics. These items do not break down and can cause severe blockages, leading to system failures.
• Chemicals and grease - Harsh cleaning chemicals, paints, solvents, fat, oil, and grease can solidify and compound in the septic tank, clogging the pipes. This disrupts the treatment process and can cause backups and overflows.
• Food waste - coffee grounds, eggshells, and food scraps should not be disposed of in sinks. These can lead to a build-up of solid waste, which is difficult for the system to process.
• Pharmaceuticals - avoid flushing medications or antibiotics, as these can kill the essential bacteria needed to break down waste in the septic tank.
• Excess water - avoid excessive water usage, which can overload the system and prevent proper waste separation and treatment.
• Heavy-duty cleaners - minimise the use of bleach and other heavy-duty drain cleaners that can disrupt the microbial balance that breaks down waste in the septic tank system.

By avoiding these items and substances, you can help to extend the longevity and efficiency of your septic system, prevent costly repairs and maintain a safe, healthy environment. Regular maintenance and adherence to these guidelines will keep your system functioning optimally.