Septics
Signs your septic tank needs our attention.
If you notice unpleasant odours or your toilet’s backing up, your septic tank may need a pump-out. Our SA Water licensed team will inspect your septic tank, clean it, desludge it, and properly dispose of the waste at treatment plants. Please ensure that the lids are accessible for pump-out, as digging them out is the homeowner’s or plumber’s responsibility. Pumping through the inspection pipe (IP) is not recommended due to inefficiency.
Our domestic services include:
- Septic tanks pump out
- Pump out and clean treatment systems
- Effluent removal for treatment and disposal
- Pump out of contaminated swimming pools
The importance of professional septic tank inspections.
Septic tanks should be inspected by a professional every 1-2 years and pumped out every 3-5 years, especially if scum and sludge levels are high. Regular desludging is vital, as rising solids can lead to odours. The frequency of desludging depends on the tank size and the number of users. Check with your local council for specific guidelines. Bacteria levels will be restored when wastewater re-enters the system, and adding lime can help adjust the pH.
Tips to maintain your septic tank
- Avoid planting trees within 4 metres of your septic tanks. Roots could, in the future, create cracks in the tank sides.
- Don’t connect ‘clean water’ outlets, such as stormwater drains, to tanks.
- Don’t drive or park over any part of the system.
- Check baffles and T-junctions within tanks. Replace as necessary (material can be purchased from nearby hardware stores).
- Keep tanks clear of vegetation.
- Ensure tanks are sealed and that all air vents are covered with gauze to prevent mosquito and insect access to the tanks.