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Septic tanks


A private sewage system deals with waste water that is not served by the mains sewer system. If your household is on a private sewage system you will probably have a septic tank, cesspit or a sewage treatment system. These systems work perfectly well and will not affect the environment if it is maintained regularly. When regular maintenance is not carried out it can affect the following

  • Human health

  • Drinking water

  • Protected areas



Tips To Keep Your Tank In Good Working Order


The septic tank is a living ecosystem where beneficial bacteria digest sewage and the following tips will help to maintain your tank and the good bacteria in it:


Do

  • Have your septic tank system professionally fitted in accordance with relevant guidelines and legislation

  • Discharge all your wastewater from your property into the system

  • Find out where your septic tank and drainage field are located

  • Arrange to have your septic tank system inspected regularly

  • De-sludge the tank regularly

  • Act swiftly if you find a blockage or any sign of a problem with your septic tank system

  • Ask for professional help if your are at all unsure

  • Keep a log or file of any maintenance work you have carried out

  • Ensure that manhole covers are easily accessible

  • Check regularly that any air vents are not blocked

  • Keep the drainage field protected from damage

  • Ensure that other sources of water, like roof and hard standing drains, are kept separate from septic tank systems

  • Try to use mild detergents, toilet fresheners, fabric conditioners, washing powders and washing liquids in moderation to try not to upset the natural balance of the septic tank. All active ingredients in soap and detergents should be biodegradable

  • Use bleaches and disinfectants sparingly as they can kill the friendly bacteria which are essential to make the septic tank work


Don't

  • Pour fat, oil or grease down the drains

  • Put paints, solvents or motor oils down the drains

  • Dispose of garden chemicals and pesticides into the septic tank

  • Use the toilet or kitchen sink as a rubbish bin

  • Empty chemical toilets into drains or septic tanks

  • Dispose of nappies, sanitary items or plastic items into the system

  • Drive over the drainage field, cover it with a hard surface or dig into it

  • Block or obstruct any air vents

  • De-sludge your tank too often

  • Allow effluent to collect on the surface of the ground

  • Try to climb into or enter a septic tank as gases are produced by the natural treatment process and can be dangerous

Diamond Drainage are always on hand to offer advice on your septic tank or any other concerns you may have on your drainage system.


Call us on 01224 701788

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