How Do I Know If My System Is Not Working Properly?
There are several signs of a failing sceptic system. These include: Sluggish or Gurgling Drains & Pipes, Plumbing Backups, Sewage Odour, Mushy Ground or Greener Grass Near Septic System
Understanding a Septic Tank System
A septic tank is a large underground tank that’s capable of holding hundreds of gallons of waste water. The most common tanks are 3000 lt and consist of a cylindrical tank approximately 2m long with two concrete lids, with wires for lifting, covering most of the length of the tank. The septic tank is connected to the house via the plumbing main line. All waste water in the home, which drains from sinks, toilets, showers and bathtubs, feeds into the septic tank via this line.
When the waste water enters the septic tank, it separates into three layers: solids at the bottom (sludge), water in the middle, and fats and oils at the top (scum). Bacteria that lives in the tank helps to break down the sludge, turning it into a liquid.
Near the top of the septic tank is a pipe that leads to a part of the yard called the drain field. When the waste water in the septic tank reaches this pipe, the water flows into the drain field and is filtered through the soil. The soil cleans the water, preventing contamination of ground water in the area.
Are Septic Pumping SA Certified Pumpers?
Yes, Septic Pumping SA are Certified Pumpers.Septic Pumping SA is EPA ( Environmental Protection Authority) and SA Water certified. With over 30 years experience Septic Pumping SA offers competitive pricing with reliable service. Our testimonials and 5 star Google reviews say it all!
What To Expect During a Septic Pumping SA Septic Tank Pump Out
Septic tanks require pump-out when the solids that accumulate in the tank begin to reach the tank's storage capacity. The tank should be pumped when total solid accumulation is between 30% and 50% of the total capacity.
What will the Septic Pumping SA Do?
Before Pumping - Note the level of the tank in relation to the tank's outlet pipe. A liquid level below the outlet pipe usually indicates a tank leak. A liquid level above the outlet pipe can indicate problem with the pipe to the drainfield or the drainfield itself.
During Pumping - We will pump the tank from the manhole. Pumping from inspection ports may damage tees and baffles. Watch for backflow from the tank outlet pipe. Significant backflow indicates a drainfield system backup. A small amount of backflow can indicate a sag in the pipe to the drainfield. We will pump the tank throughly. Use a septage spoon and back flush to loosen the sludge in the corners of the tank.
After Pumping - Check the empty tank and note any signs of structural damage such as an open weep hole, leaking midstream, damaged baffles, or cracks.
Frequently Asked Questions That Septic Pumping SA get asked:
How much to empty my septic tank?
The average cost is between $240 - $300 for a septic tank and between $400 - $500 for an aerobic tank. This price will also vary due to:-
- Your location
- Size of your water treatment plant or septic tank that requires cleaning
- Waste water treatment plants are usually more expensive. Expertise and experience is necessary as inexperienced operators can damage modern systems and cause very costly damage.
- Urgency and time frame Eg: Late Sunday afternoon or evening
What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic treatment?
The major difference between the two types of treatment is the presence of oxygen - aerobic systems require oxygen, whereas anaerobic systems do not. The other differences include :
- An aerobic system can be a stand alone system, or combined with an anaerobic system
- Aerobic systems, in isolation, tend to be more expensive than their anaerobic counterparts
- Aerobic systems need electricity and solids need to be pumped out regularly
- A qualified professional is required to inspect and maintain the electrical and mechanical components related to the aerobic parts of a system regularly to ensure they are working correctly
- Anaerobic components also require maintenance, but at a lower level
- Aerobic systems allow even the strictest of industrial environmental guidelines to be met
- Anaerobic systems, in isolation, are more environmentally friendly than aerobic systems due to :
- Anaerobic systems generate less sludge
- Anaerobic sludge can be used for soil enrichment
- Anaerobic systems have lower sludge-handling costs than aerobic systems
- There are more chemicals in aerobic systems
- Anaerobic systems produce biogas that can be used to produce electricity
Best way to maintain my septic system?
The most important step in septic system maintenance is to be sure to schedule regular service calls by a septic professional. Have the system checked and the tank pumped every two to five years.
The second most important step is to be a responsible septic system user. It is important to conserve water, keep your drains clean of chemicals, grease and non biodegradable substances.
How often do I need to pump my septic tank?
This depends on water usage and the amount of waste entering the system. Septic Pumping SA recommends that a septic tank should be emptied every two to five years (this range depends of the size of tank and household).
What Can I Do To Keep My System Running Well?
Make sure the sludge is pumped out of your tank every two or three years. Harsh chemicals like paint solvents, thinners, and nail polish removers should never be poured down the drain. Bleach, sink and toilet cleaners, and drain openers are also harmful to the organisms in your tank that help breakdown bacteria. Diapers, feminine products, cigarette butts, condoms, and cotton swabs can cause blockages and should not be allowed into your system.
How do I know where my septic is located?
The best suggestion is to contact the local local council to obtain a copy of the lot. Some homes may have a white pvc pipe sticking up in the yard, or a concrete square or round lid.
Generally, a septic tank is a minimum of 5 to 15 feet from the home, in a direct line out from your sewage outlet pipe in the basement exiting the building. Tanks vary from 12 inches to 24 inches below the ground in most circumstances. About 95 percent of septic tanks have two cleanout access ports at either end, approximately 6 feet to 7 feet apart.
Septic Pumping SA have been called out to many homes with the owner has paved over or a deck has been built over the top of the tank. Septic Pumping SA can help you locate the septic tank. Nine times out of ten, we have serviced the property in the past for a different owner and will have on record exact notes regarding the location.
Can I landscape over my septic system?
It is beneficial to grow grass or ground covers over your septic system to prevent soil erosion. Evergreens such as pines planted absorb excess water, and are beneficial. Avoid water-loving trees such as willows or poplars. Be sure to map where you septic system is for easy access when needed.
