Septic Tanks
For houses not connected to a city sewerage system, a septic tank might be your
only option for dealing with toilet waste. Installing and servicing a septic tank is
definitely a job for the experts, but here are
some basic things to consider.
How a septic tank works
A septic tank is essentially a small-scale sewerage treatment plant. Waste from
your toilet is pumped into a large tank where it is broken down by anaerobic
bacteria. Clear excess liquid is drained off into a drain field.
Locating your septic tank
Your septic tank will need occasional maintenance and pumping, so make sure it's
located somewhere that's accessible by vehicle, and where the heavy truck won€t
drive on top of the underground tank itself.
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Septic tank permissions
You will need permission from your local council (and possibly other bodies) before
installing a septic tank. Make sure you have all the plans and details ready for
them to inspect.
Installing a septic tank
You may need to excavate a drop from the house to the tank so the waste can
flow downhill. Then, it's a matter of laying the pipes from the house, building the
tank itself, and putting in the drain field. This work should only be performed by a qualified contractor.
Septic tank maintenance
Your septic tank needs to be inspected and pumped every three to five years to
remove any excess solids and ensure there are no problems. If poorly maintained,
a septic tank can back up, spilling sewerage all over your property. When properly
looked after, your tank should operate reliably for more than 20 years.
Septic tank care
Be careful what you flush down the drain to a septic system. Many products can
damage the system or stop bacterial breakdown. Heavy toilet paper, condoms,
disposable nappies or feminine hygiene products are definite no-nos, as are large
amounts of fat, grease or coffee grounds.
Get a quote to install or inspect your septic tank here.
Click here for quotes
from service providers