Septic tank emptying: everything you need to know

Most of us are aware of the process of filling a septic tank. Of course, other types of waste also end up in your septic tank; it's not just the leftovers from yesterday's lunch. The wastewater from your dishwasher and washing machine, along with the water from your showers and sinks, usually also enters your septic tank, making for quite the cocktail!

However, improper septic tank maintenance can cost money, followed by discomfort and unusability. So, it's important to get it emptied in a timely.

Why is septic tank emptying necessary?

Every septic tank has an outlet, a pipe that exits the tank and usually leads to a drainage field or soakaway system. It's a system of pipes with perforations or slots that enables septic tank waste to safely seep into the ground without posing a pollution risk. Your septic tank doesn't treat the waste; instead, it separates it into three layers:

 The enticingly named "scum."

 The barely bearable "separated wastewater."

 And the delightfully named "sludge" at the bottom.

The other, more solid waste is left in the septic tank, and only the separated wastewater is discharged and goes to the soakaway system. Hence, a septic tank emptying in Colchester, Essex, becomes necessary.

What if you don't regularly empty your septic tank?

Evil things. Unless you've had a long-standing desire for a novel (and intense) new water feature in your garden, emptying your septic tank timely can cause several issues. Right from slower-flushing toilets to gurgling sounds in your pipes and even waste back into your home.

It may also indicate that the wrong kind of waste has escaped from your septic tank and clogged the soakaway system, causing the waste to collect above ground. It's bad news for you but also bad news for the environment because the waste can contaminate nearby waterways.

How often should a septic tank be emptied?

There's no definite time prescribed, but groundworks and drainage specialists in Essex suggest a yearly cleaning. That also depends on how many people reside in your home and how much waste is generated. As a result, the amount can change. It also depends on whether your septic tank is the right size for your home.

For instance, if a house has been modified over time, the septic tank hasn't been upgraded to handle the additional waste. As a result, a tank that is larger and less frequently used could go longer between empties, whereas a tank that is smaller or more frequently used might require more frequent emptying. Generally, it's a good place to start if you work once a year.

What happens during septic tank emptying?

During septic tank emptying in Colchester, Essex, a tanker equipped with a lengthy flexible hose will be dispatched by a nearby septic tank emptying business. After the tanker operator inserts this into your septic tank, a strong suction force is used to remove all the waste.

They will remove and properly dispose of it for your benefit so that this is the last time you see (or smell) it. Also, it would be best if you made sure that whoever empties your septic tank has the proper waste disposal licence.

How can you tell if you have issues with your soakaway system or septic tank?

It would help if you had your septic tank emptied for two main reasons. The first is a standard empty, as discussed above. The second is due to an unexpected overflow or backup in your tank.

An overflowing tank may indicate trouble developing underground, especially if you haven't recently hosted a sizable party and your tank isn't due for a routine empty. Your septic tank may fill up more quickly than usual if there is damage to the soakaway system or septic tank. However, don't worry; we can assist.

Cost of emptying a septic tank

You can find septic tank maintenance for as little as £85 or as much as £400. Pricing varies depending on the region, and because it's a competitive market, several businesses in a given area might offer lower prices. To compare prices, locate a few nearby businesses. Then, choose the one that most appeals to you.

For instance, Ashwaste Environmental Ltd. offers the best professional services for septic tank emptying. They have affordable pricing, substantial experience and a skilled team.