Most of us septic tank owners know that septic tanks are fairly simple beasts and as long as we limit the number of wrong items entering them and get them emptied frequently, the system should operate with issues.
WCI don’t offer emptying as a service, but we but we are able to liaise with trusted partners to make the process smoother for our clients. First, let’s get back to basics and discuss how a septic tank functions, why and how often emptying is required and what happens if you don’t look after your septic tank.
How does a septic tank function?
A septic tank is a settlement tank in which raw incoming sewage is retained long enough for suspended solids to settle out as sludges and for liquid organic matter to undergo anaerobic decomposition.
As the sewage settles, a scum forms on top of the tank consisting of fats and soaps, and heavily organic matter settles at the bottom of the tank as sludge. The relatively clear liquid, called septic tank effluent, which lies in between the scum and sludge, leaves the tank and then undergoes secondary treatment in a drainage field.
While there is some anaerobic decomposition in the septic tank, this bacterial action is not efficient enough to fully treat the sewage to a level which is safe to disperse into the ground. A septic tank alone will only reduce the strength of the incoming sewage by 30-50% under ideal conditions.
It is therefore the drainage field which receives the septic effluent from the septic tank which does most of the treatment and it is the septic tank’s job to separate out the solids to stop the drainage field from becoming blocked.
Why should I empty my tank?
In a nutshell, to protect the drainage field/ soakaway and ensure the correct operation of the septic tank.
The WCI Offices we often hear that owner have never emptied their septic tanks and there has never been a problem. I can tell you now that those properties that report that there is no reason to frequently empty a septic tank usually have either 1. An illegal septic tank that are discharging to a watercourse and so any build-up of septic tank contents have been discharging to the watercourse or 2. We find that the drainage field is failing or failed as the carryover of material from the septic tanks as blocked the drainage field.
A septic tank that is not emptied frequently allows for solids material to travel from the septic tank into the drainage field/ soakaway eventually causing a blockage(s) which over time will lead to its failure.
How do I know if my drainage field/ soakaway is failing?
Typically, symptoms of drainage field failure are (but not limited to):
- Your ground floor toilets will start gurgling or will be slow to drain.
- You may find that wastewater is backing up in your drains.
- The presence of wastewater on the surface, existing out of manholes or the ground
- You will need to empty your tank more often.
If you believe you are experiencing a septic tank or drainage field problem, please contact WCI ASAP, talk to us about the issues you are experiencing and request a free site survey.
We will come to site survey the existing system, identify the issue(s) and provide a quote for the rectification or the replacement of the system.
How often is emptying required?
Sludges will typically need to be removed by a licenced waste carrier every 12 months on average. The frequency will vary depending on a number of criteria such as the size of the tank, the number of people in the property, the type of diet you have (typically a meat eater produces more waste) etc…
What should I expect when I get the tank emptied?
You will make an appointment with a licensed local septic tank emptying company. They will want to know any access issues and the distance from where they will be able to park to the septic tank. This makes sure they can empty the tank.
They will turn up, lay out their hoses, remove the manhole lids, inert the hose and suck out the contents of the tank. Depending on the consistency of the tank, the job will be finished quickly. The thicker the sludges the slower the job and water may be required to break up the sludges. Placing a hose near the septic tank and at the disposal of the tanker driver will ensure he can complete his work and enable him/ her to clean out their hoses before they leave. Ensuring your manholes are accessible, strimmed and clear of plant pots and bird baths will make you a firm favourite. A cuppa tea once the work is completed will be rarely turned down either!!
The driver will then give you a waste transfer notice and invoice. Sometimes the paperwork follows from the office. Please note: The empty will be smelly, and it is a good idea to keep pets away from the action as manholes will be open creating a hazard.
How much will it cost to get my tank emptied?
Most domestic septic tanks which serve one or two domestic properties will be less than 1000 gallons/ 4500 litres and costs will range from £160-£240 for the homeowner. Costs can vary depending on access, volume and consistency of material removed and time spent on site. If you’re not sure where to start, give the WCI service team a call and we can advise as part of a service plan if needed.