SEPTIC
TANKS

SEPTIC TANKS

Septic tanks can treat and discharge the liquid part of the sewage. Waste enters the first tank where gravity separates the liquids from the solids. The liquid effluent flows out of the tank onto land, where it is cleaned as it percolates through the soil. Some of the sunken solids, or ‘sludge’, is broken down by natural bacteria but the rest will need to be taken away by lorry. Septic tanks are suitable for single houses or small developments, but you’ll also need a drainage field that is porous enough to allow the waste to percolate through.

 Septic tanks systems are a small-scale sewage treatment works designed to treat wastewater and return it to the environment, while storing the solid waste (sludge). You’ll need to register with the Environmental Protection Agency if your property uses a septic system and you are responsible for ensuring that your system is functioning properly. That is why supplying our customers the highest-quality septic tanks is of paramount importance to us.

Advantages of a septic tank

• Relatively low installation cost
• Relatively low cost to run
• Only require emptying (or ‘desludging’) once or twice a year

Disadvantages of a septic tank

• Your ground must be porous enough to allow the liquid effluent to discharge
• New laws state septic tanks can no longer be discharged into a watercourse

How a septic tank system works

 Wastewater enters the septic tank through the inlet pipe. Heavy waste sinks to the bottom and lighter waste floats to the top, while the effluent remains between these two layers. As more and more waste flows into the septic tank, the effluent is pushed through the outlet pipe into a closed network of perforated pipes, filtering through the bed and into the soil below. We know the importance of using high-quality septic tanks and only stock brands we trust, including Klargester and Graf

How often do I need to service my treatment plant?

It is advisable to get the buildup of sludge in your system cleared and the mechanical and electronic components serviced every six to twelve months.

Maintenance

Your septic tank will need to be emptied periodically to remove the sludge that builds up over time. The frequency will depend on the number of people using the system, but it’s usually done every six to twelve months. Items such as nappies and sanitary towels will quickly clog your septic tank (and most other waste treatment systems) so dispose of these with your rubbish rather than flushing them. Fat and grease can also create build up in the pipes and septic tank. The system relies on a delicate ecological balance so be careful about introducing hazardous chemicals into the system, such as varnish or paint thinners. A reasonable amount of domestic cleaning products or household detergents will be fine.